There are so many people who say that family is what you make of it. Or that you can choose your own family.
I don’t think that you can ever fully choose your own family. I believe that we are given certain people as family. For better or for worse.
I prefer to think that we choose our tribe. Our group. The people that will hold is up when we can’t. These are the ones who aren’t technically our family, but we consider family.
And if you’re willing to put the time and work in, this group of people that God has placed in your path with help save you from yourself.
I found myself surrounded by youth at an event one night. And these youth were unlike any other group of teens and young adults I’ve ever seen before.
They prayed over each other. They held each other. They made each other laugh when it was needed.
They loved.
And man, did they ever do it well.
They were willing to have the hard conversations with each other. Conversations that adults have a hard time having. They were holding each other accountable.
I feel privileged to have witnessed what this next generation is doing. I know sometimes we all wonder what has happened to the “kids these days.” I think every generation has wondered about the next.
I am proud to say that at least some of them are doing such an amazing job of it.
My friend, I don’t know what your family situation is like. I don’t know what that support system has been in your life. But I do know, if you pray, God will insert people into your life to help you. I can profess this because I have done it. I have prayed for Godly friendships, and I have received them. They take work. They take input, forgiveness, grace and love. So if you are needing to find your “tribe”, I ask you today to pray. Ask Him specifically for the kind of support you are needing right now. And then watch Him answer in the most unexpected ways.
Heavenly Father, I pray that you would help us to receive your grace and pass it along to our families. I pray that those who are feeling lonely would find the courage to ask for help. I pray that you would equip us to hear the cries of those around us and to step up for them. Place people in our paths that need to feel your love today. And help us to see the ones who are trying to help us. In faith I pray. Amen.
I would be honoured to lift you up in prayer. If you are in need of someone to stand in the space for you, leave me your name in the comments. I don’t need the details, He already has those.
Soul to Sole Living 