I have been blessed with some wonderful friends through-out my life-time.  It seems that seasons ebb and flow with friends who we love and spend our time with.  Now and then, life's circumstances and demands take us away for periods of time.  However, there are those who, no matter what distance is between, it is as if it were only moments when reunited.  

The Bible speaks much about the family of God.  Having eternal hope in common is a bond that is indescribable!  There is a supernatural connection and understanding that just makes the heart glad.  We were created with a need for companionship and encouragement.  God did not want us to be lonely.  He also chose to make His dwelling place within all those who choose to believe in Him - and therefore we become His instruments who share love that has the potential to by-pass even our humanity!  It is quite an honor to be a carrier of the Spirit of Him who created the universe!  When we ask God to come inside and dwell as He promises in HIs word to do, miraculous things can happen.  Relationships have a heavenly link and if we but choose can become all the more precious.  When we share the God who lives within us, there are new levels of love to be discovered and activated!  Sure, we still live in a human body and fall short plenty, but as we choose to "tap in" to obedience and righteousness, there are "joys unspeakable and full of glory!"

These dear friends are some of those who we have been spending our Friday evenings praying with.  It is something we decided to begin a few years ago because we all felt the compulsion to seek the Lord with others who felt the same desire.  It has proven, once again, that what God says is indeed true!  When we do submit to Him and seek His righteousness, there are still new mercies every day to discover!

This sweet lady, Charity, has a birthday this weekend.  She is a treasure with many creative gifts and abilities to share.  God has made her an artist with a love for home and nature.  It is refreshing to walk into her house and smell the fragrances of home-made soaps and creations from herbal resources!  She is a fantastic cook and the decor that surround her masterpiece dishes are just as mouth-watering and delightful!

Charity makes jewelry.  I am mesmerized by the details and beauty she lovingly puts into each piece.  I smile and believe every necklace and bracelet is some of the beauty inside of her oozing into yet another magnificent display that only reflect bits of the character and beauty of our Maker!

Mostly, this lady carries the sweet presence and kindness of her God.  She is very wise in so many things, and quite a counselor - maybe not by trade, but definitely by natural gifting.  The love and comfort of the Holy Spirit she has experienced have been a resource through which she has become a vessel!  It is a joy and a blessing to know this beautiful child of God.  May her birthday be brimming with abundant encouragements and favor from heaven!  Might her day and week be filled with sunshine and the joy of the Jesus who is her Source and strength.  May He alone direct her paths and keep her in the shelter of His comforting arms.  Might her children and husband be impassioned and enflamed by the same One who brings her assurance and hope and may her home be filled with praise and power!!

Happy birthday, dear friend!