Hello, friends.
I am bad at asking for help. I don’t like to inconvenience other people, and I really don’t like having my weaknesses exposed. But here’s what I’ve learned. We rob people of their ability to use their gifts when we isolate ourselves. A few years ago, I lost a dear friend to a horrible car accident. The grieving process left me wrecked in a way I had never experienced before. I found myself struggling with some hefty depression and anxiety. I made a valiant effort to power through on my own, but was unsuccessful. (Obviously) What did end up helping was therapy, my amazing family, and a group of devoted friends. (And Jesus, of course!)
God created us to thrive in community. It’s why he distributed gifts uniquely. We all have something special to give and to receive. I believe if he’d intended for us to live independently, he would have equipped us to do so. I have so many dear people in my life, and as I reflect on what each of them offers the body of Christ, I am amazed at God’s creativity. I have friends who are artists, friends who offer wise insight into spiritual topics, friends who cook, friends who make me laugh, friends who are warriors for social justice, friends who talk about books with me, friends who are quick and genuine with encouragement, friends who are musicians, friends who write beautiful notes, friends who are prayer warriors, friends who are generous, friends who are thoughtful, friends who are detailed and organized. I cannot imagine my life without a single one of my people.
As these uncertain and very weird days continue to pile up, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help. I’ve done it. And most of my friends have cycled through strong days and fearful days, hopeful days and days of doubt. We lend each other faith and hope, words of encouragement, and reminders of our great God. I’ve received encouragement in the form of memes, phone calls, voice texts, surprise amazon packages, special deliveries of biscotti and puzzles, and stories of hope.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
Friends…there are no laws against the fruits of the Spirit. They cannot be quarantined. Find ways to creatively use your gifts, and invite others to bless and encourage you by using theirs.
Lovingly from home,
Kate
Thoughts from The Yellow House 