If you’ve followed my blog for a while, you know I am privileged to serve on the Women’s Ministry Teaching Team at my church. Each fall we begin a new Bible Study. Over the years, we’ve had some dynamic resources. It’s likely you’d know some of the authors by name. Beth Moore, Lysa Terkeurst, and Geri Scazzero, just to name a few.

Each study impacts us with scriptural truths, offering us the opportunity to grow in our faith and to grow less encumbered by the cares of this world. To my surprise and delight, my book Friendship MAPS: A Journey through Maturity, Aspirations, Perspectives, and Struggles was selected for this fall’s study!

I’ve shared the MAPS message in a variety of venues. From women’s expos to banquets, I’ve had the pleasure of speaking on the topic of friendship. But this time it’s personal. This time I’ll join the group’s journey through the book. I’ll occasionally facilitate or sit among readers over the next twelve weeks. If you live in the Charlotte area, I hope you’ll join us. However, if your door step is further away, you can visit this site and join the conversation!

The Friendship MAPS study kicks-off on Monday, September 14.* I’m excited The Park Church’s Women’s ministry chose to explore their friendship journey. As the author, I’ve given a lot of thought to friendship. Here are a few reasons why you should too:

Friendship is central to our well-being. In our social media driven society, we can “friend “or “unfriend” with a click. But in our face-to-face interactions making and maintaining friendships are not that simple. God created us to be in relationship with Him and with others. Through faith in Jesus Christ, a relationship with Him fulfills us. Through biblical principles, we can experience a joyous fellowship with one another.

Friendship reflects who we are inside. As we consider who our friends are we can see a lot about ourselves. Whether our circle of friends is large or small, each friend’s personality, value system, and special interests reflect some aspect of our own.

Friendship is meant to be fun and functional. It’s wonderful to share the activities we enjoy with a friend. A hobby, favorite vacation spot or eatery can bolster the friendship bond. However, if the content of the interaction brings more drama than delight, the enjoyment of the friendship ceases.

We can approach friendships haphazardly – by hanging out with whomever hoping what’s needed in our lives will happen. But there is another more rewarding option. We can approach our friendships intentionally – by seeking God for guidance in our connections based on our maturity, aspirations, perspectives and struggles (MAPS).

I’m praying you’ll find treasure within your circle of friends. And may your friendships overflow with hope for the heart and joy to the soul!

“A true friend loves regardless of the situation, and a real brother exists to share the tough times.” – Proverbs 17:17 – VOICE