Faith Filled Family Magazine August 2016 | Page 110

We are called to be a people of hope, yet when confronted by events that seem laden with despair it is easy to lose sight of God’s love for us. It is seemingly harder to trust in God. Especially in more vulnerable times it is important to have a sound voice rooted in God’s word rather than that of the “market place” speaking to us. Growing up I recall my parents always emphasizing the importance of finding quality friendships. Not so much based solely on a shared faith, but one enriched with like values, good habits, and positive ambitions. When infused with a shared love of God these friendships are a great asset. The advice that many parents give to their children about the company they keep is often forgotten as one becomes an adult and is surrounded by different struggles and life situations. Healthy friendships remain vital to keep a balanced life. I have witnessed many people who have struggled in their marriages and have shared these wounds in vulnerability to others, those who are without faith. The worldly emphasis on happiness and self-satisfaction can truly intoxicate one’s mind and lead them down a whirlwind path away from Christ and Christian values. I have likewise seen beautiful fellowship between godly friends who share burdens with one another. Who help lift another through their struggle by keeping them grounded in God through prayer. This encouragement can help heal in even the most impossible of circumstances, where we can truly see the promise(s) of Christ fulfilled. Though our friendship in Christ can not erase the trial or difficulty that another is going through we can help to lessen the burden and provide comfort. It is a sharing of grace that so often is best understood and seen when the ordeal is through. our godly friends we find courage and strength to persevere in all things, reserve ourselves to God’s will and thus carry out the Good News by the witness of our lives. Catherine Spada is a Public Middle School educator and We do not need to know the is currently loving her new role right words to speak, but per- as a full-time mom. She enjoys petually order ourselves upward giving presentations and sharing to God and ask for the grace to the beauty of the faith. Catherine know how to aid a friend. Some- resides outside of Toronto with times the best and most impor- her husband and beautiful baby tant thing we can do is to bow girl. Feel free to contact her with our heads in prayer‎ together. any questions or comments at “Iron sharpens iron” and through [email protected]