What’s the Use?

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” I Thessalonians 5:1

Some time ago, my granddaughter, Sophie and her dad went camping at her favorite spot–Jellystone Park. With its Yogi Bear theme, the campground is filled with many fun activities–a swimming pool, water slides, a huge trampoline, arts and crafts, and more–all definitely placed there with children in mind.

On the way to drop Sophie off at school the following Monday, I wanted to hear more about her weekend away. I asked if she had met any other children while at Jellystone. She said, “No! If I had, that would mean I would be forming a relationship, and since I was only there for two days, what’s the use in meeting someone I would never see again!” Hmmm! This 8-year-old girl who has always deeply valued her friendships with others, had been doing some thinking!

I was not expecting such a strong response on Sophie’s part. Wanting to impart a few quick words of encouragement before we arrived at school, I told her it has often been said that people come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime, and that meeting someone for two days or even two minutes can often make a difference in their lives, and/or ours. I emphasized to her that God created all of us to have a relationship with Himself and others, and that He stands ready to guide her in developing healthy and meaningful relationships along the pathway of her life.

I also told Sophie not to search for the perfect relationship because one does not exist outside of a relationship with God; that she will be well served to base all of her relationships on God’s standards and not those of the world; and that those relationships can sometimes become messy, disappointing, and painful due to no fault of her own. I stressed the importance that forgiveness plays as she maneuvers these waters and seeks to build relationships with others.

It will always be important for Sophie to understand that meaningful, earthly relationships will take time and hard work, yet are well worth the effort. My prayer is that she will always submit to God’s leadership in every area of her life, and that she will see that He has used every experience, good or bad, to grow her in her faith and to help her rely more heavily on His strength rather than her own.

Yes, many interactions and/or relationships with others are sometimes brief. Regardless, I hope that all of us will find God’s purpose behind each one and trust Him to use them for our good and His glory. And the next time Sophie goes camping at Jellystone, I hope that she will find a friend with whom she can share the excitement of a fun-filled weekend.

Prayer: Dear Father, we love You because You first loved us. Thank You for the wonderful relationship we find in You. We need and welcome the unconditional love that You offer to all whom You have created. Help us to live in such a way that we aren’t fearful of reaching out to others for Your namesake. Help us to trust You as we pray for our children and grandchildren to always choose godly friends. May their relationships glorify You in all things. We thank You and pray these things in Jesus name. Amen.