Well, it seems God uses you to convict me at least once a week, so thanks for being THAT friend - lol. I am blessed to have so many great friends one of whom I have lived with since I was 20. God has been so faithful to put people around me during different seasons of my life. Some are believers, some are not. I do feel afraid of turning people away if I get too "preachy" about my faith, so I soft-peddle it far too often. I want to believe they can see my faith in the way I live. But bottom line, faith comes through hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (Rom. 10:17). I want to be a "life-giving" friend. So I just have to be open and let God give me what to say and when and how to say it while continuing to live like His Word is the most important thing to me. I'll be thinking and praying about whether that list of verses you shared is the kind of friend I am. Thanks for another great walk! I look forward to others' thoughts on this topic.
Hi Cathey ~ you know how I told Donny how I feel there's some synchronicity going on? I feel that way about us connecting. I don't know what God is doing, but I know it's for the good... xoxo
Jan, a little less busy at the office so to speak today. Even though that office is remotely at home, it gets busy on certain days. I agree with you and Cathey. The synchronicity in this group is so wonderful the way we are connecting with one another even though we live in different parts of the country or the world. I can't believe what God is doing in my own life in the last 7 to 8 months, but God is definitely preparing us for something GOOD!!! Praise Jesus is what I say. Cathey, I too can be the same way myself when being a little guarded about my faith depending on the situation or whom I with. That's what I'm hoping will NOT happen with my brother this weekend, but I think it will go well. Thank you two for your prayer support. I know Jesus will take the wheel as Carrie Underwood's song says!
I am already blessed by your friendship, Jan. I think we are kindred spirits. Also..... people who love to write are automatically special in my book! 💕💕💕
Once again, Espírito Santo guided you to such a cool and necessary topic, especially in times of social media when people are looking for a number of followers to put themselves in a position of “nice person”.
Graham in the first Podcast with Amber said something that I loved, said that I would rather have 50 followers that really connect with the content he produces, to the point of impacting these people's lives, than having a bunch of people on a superficial level, WOW!
I like to think of the concept of friendship in the light of the Bible based on the friendship between David and Jonathan, whoever attended Sunday school probably learned about being a friend from this scripture - 1 Samuel 18.
What I find beautiful about their friendship is that there is no expectation, but there is reciprocity, pillars that can sustain or destroy a friendship. Recently I found myself analyzing a person based on “my expectations” without considering that precisely because it is my expectations, the other is not obliged to behave as I determined (I am still re-signifying this experience).
My challenge is not in the friendships I already have, but in the ones I'm building. We believers live almost a duality, fulfilling God's commandment "love one another as I have loved you" and managing our emotions, for me this is a daily challenge!
In the “what is love” walk you said that the word “love” is being misused. I think we can consider this same perspective for the word “friend” as many friendships are being built on the fragility of modern relationships.
I loved the part where you say about offering to do something and actually don't. This is so important to me, I try to do what I promise! I try to be altruistic, but sometimes I get into a situation of seeking recognition for what I did, man, how dangerous this is, because it hurts a lot...
I agree with you when you say that we need to talk about our wonderful experience with Jesus, but I also think that “talking” can be through example, that is, the way I live says much more about my relationship with Jesus than mine ability to speak.
Anyway, another excellent walk, thank you for the message and reflection!
Donny, the subject of friendship on this prayer walk really resonates with me. My deepest desire is to be that friend that you speak of who will encourage and inspire others to be the best they can possibly be. That also involves listening and praying for others. God and HIS word is the guiding light that leads me to do any of this. Can I be better at this than I do now? Of course, I think we all can if we are perfectly honest with ourselves. I read John 15:13-15 before I viewed the video as I felt sure you would reference it. Friendship is marked by sacrifice in giving of ourselves to our friends and also to God/Jesus like you said, once we are truly saved, Jesus becomes our friend. I sincerely hope to continue to spread the love of God/Jesus I have even better than I do now after listening to the video. We are all a work in progress, and I know I am because I'm constantly growing. I know I cannot do any of this without God's direction and the love and support I continue to get through this community. I feed off that and love to give it right back. Thank you for this wonderful prayer walk. I will take everything you talked about, pray on it, read the Bible and let that guide me through the coming days.
I would like to add a prayer request for myself. I don't ask for prayer for myself too often, but I would appreciate it if you keep me in your prayers through this entire weekend. My brother is driving in Thursday, tomorrow from Alabama. He will be in town through Sunday I believe. I haven't seen him since last Christmas. I've changed quite a bit since he last saw me. Not because of the weight loss, but my faith has grown so much deeper and of course there are a lot of new things I'm involved with or doing, etc. He is a believer, but we never have discussed what our faith in Jesus means to one another. It's just something my family never discussed growing up. We were tight lipped. What I'm asking prayer for is guidance to be who I am NOW and to remain faithful to that. I don't want fear to take hold and those old walls/boundaries start to form. If the subject comes up, I want to be honest but not fearful of holding back like I can with you guys or my friends. I hope this makes sense. I appreciate this very much.
Donny, God bless you and this entire community. Have a great week.
Thank you Donny! I do appreciate it very much. Hopefully, it will all go well. I'm looking forward seeing him, but a little apprehensive since I've grown in my faith since then. God has this, and I'm going to try and wear God's full armor at all times.
I am writing this for Anne. Please pray for her. She’s experiencing pains on her side. She’s concerned and would appreciate prayers. We love you, Anne! (From Tricia) 🙏❤️
Hey Guys! Thank you for the prayers. Hopefully this isn’t serious at all. I asked for prayer for support which is definitely not easy for me but I am getting better at it. Honestly, I’ve never experienced anything like this before, naturally you get a little concerned but not too worried. I appreciate the prayers! A friend made a suggestion which I did so it may have helped a little. We will just have to see! Please don’t worry but I do appreciate the prayers! Love you guys! God definitely had this!
Thank you for the prayers! The pain and soreness seems to have lightened up. There’s still some tightness and pain but not like last night. You guys are the best and I appreciate the love and support!
I’m praying for you Anne! I’m praying for a peace that surpasses all understanding that only God can give as this can be scary & for guidance on wether to go to the doctor & ultimately for the Lord to heal whatever it is!!🙏🙏❤️❤️ Love you dear friend!!!
Anne, I am praying right now about your weekend with your brother and will continue to do so throughout the weekend. I pray that your conversations are fruitful and enriching and draw you closer together.
Thank you Cathey. It's easy round you guys and my cousins which we will be around on Friday, but a lot has changed for me since we last saw one another. We get along well, but we are so different. I just want to be who I am now around him. I truly think it will be fine, but I definitely need prayer. I appreciate it so much!
Prayers for you and your brother, that this weekend will be a special one, guided by the Lord and His presence. I know what you mean about reconnecting with people after we have been changed. I am meeting some friends tonight that I haven't seen in many years, and I have changed a lot in my faith since I last saw them.
Thanks Jan. He's coming in for his high school reunion. I had mine two weeks ago which went very well. We will be with family on Friday which I'm always myself with when around them. I think it will be fine, but there are some things I need to discuss with him, and that's why I requested prayer. Friends are one thing but some times we're guarded around family like Cathey shared. I appreciate it. I also plan on reading what you wrote on substack a little later. Can't wait because I always enjoy what you write. Hugs right back.
Oh, I get it! My family didn't talk about anything. Matter-of-fact, after my mom died my brother & I didn't talk for 2 years. I just have this gut feeling your interaction is going to go great. Fingers crossed; positive vibes on the way; prayers lifted.
Thank you for this week prayer walk Donny. I am beyond blessed to have meet so many become friends from different walks of life thru this community.
I am faithful and I have meet some are non believers and meeting them under circumstances they ask what happened to me and I tell them without God I wouldn’t be here. A day later seeing them in the hallway of the place where we all stayed they started listening and praying along with me. I continue to spread my love of God with others some turn there backs and some stay’s and pray along with me. When all seems lost we can walk outside and breath - listen to the sounds surrounding us that can bring us back on our feet, looking around and knowing God is in all we see and do. Today, the Lord says; I am the friend who will not disappoint, I am the friend who will be strong when you need ME to be. I am the friend who will give you words of hope when you feel sad or disappointed. I am a friend who knows what you mean when you say “ I am dying inside” or I am so alone” and you are lost and afraid of the quiet. I am the friend who brings light into the darkness. “ God is my friend”, God says “ cast your burdens on me” - be still and know that I am God.
AMEN! Lucy, thank you for sharing these comments...yes, HE is our ultimate friend. He is the one that will never leave. We are sinful humans, so we will not be able to fully love each other, but He does love us as His children. Praises!
Lucy, you are definitely that kind of friend. Even though we live in different parts of the country, you are a valued friend of mine like others in this community. I love what you said. Just keep being who you are in the eyes of Jesus, and let HIS light continue to shine through you to others!
Hey my friend, Donny. I was walking and really listening to what you shared. I’ve had friends in the past I committed my personal thoughts and beliefs to that seemed to share mine. I’m still friends with one of them but when she moved it’s like I became invisible and she doesn’t even try to write, I guess she was a seasonal friend. Mark you know had a friend who was mostly a good friend but he never took him as his friend unless he was preaching or teaching to him. We both met a friend who not only confessed Jesus but treated us like we meant something. You are that someone. This is why you could speak so very well on being a friend. For that act of love and kindness I will forever remember you. In this social media space I have made a few friends but one in particular who has helped so much and allowed me to speak from the heart. I don’t have to say her name she knows who she is. When we are called to be a friend it takes a lot of courage to be one. We should be one regardless of how the other person treats us. I know only a few people that if I need prayer they literally stop what they are doing to pray. You do that too. Those I consider my friends.
I love you what you said Lucinda! True friends are hard to come by. I'm blessed to have the ones I have. I agree, DonnyMac is a very special friend to you, me, and all of us. We are so blessed by God to have someone like him that we can genuinely call a friend. You are my friend too, and if I haven't said that, I really mean that. I value your opinion, and I love reading your comments. Take care and God bless!
Thank you Anne. I appreciate you. I have just found that people don’t know really what friendship is all about. I’m finding closer friends through this medium than right next door. One thing I notice about Donny is he doesn’t judge he just loves people. I admire that and hope I can be a close friend to you too. God bless.
I agree 100% what you said about Donny! The feeling is mutual in being a close friend to you too! We will have to meet some day. We don't live too far from one another, so maybe on one my future trips to see my brother who lives in AL, etc. Take care!
God is amazing! How he has used these walks to bring us closer. Thank you to Donny for sharing his heart with us because of his heart is drawn to God! I feel overwhelmed by the blessing of new friends in my life because of this dear community. You, Lucinda, being one of them! I do believe that God brings people in and out of our lives for seasons, however, but sometimes that is hard when they leave. I know that may not be exactly what you are talking about in the case when your friend moved away. I do feel however that that there are seasons where God uses certain people to bring us closer to Him. Isn't that ultimately what we want from friends...to be brought closer to Him!?!? Blessings to you, dear!
So many wonderful comments! This community never does cease to amaze me. Donny, ugh, that is part of how I felt watching the walk. I was convicted. I am busy, and I feel I allow that to dominate more often than I prefer. I am committing to prayer that God help me to balance. I have had to limit time with friends in the last couple of years, so it is hard sometimes to feel that I am being selfish. Another feeling I had watching the walk was humbled and gratitude! I don't think I can fully comprehend the extent of how God loves me as a friend. Part of me does not really believe it to be honest. That is the part of me that still sees God on one hand up on a throne and not present right here with me but more sitting on a seat of judgment. I have not a doubt at all that He loves me fully, but it is hard to comprehend it at times. I am His friend...wow! What a thought. I agree I will continue to chew on this for a while. Thanks for being a friend to challenge me!! Blessings to you all!
Tricia, you’re right that that it’s hard to comprehend how vast and much God loves us, but the Bible states we can’t comprehend or know that in this lifetime. A lot to think about. Whew! Take care and God bless my friend!
Donny it's so funny that you were talking about a true friend I have been friends with someone sense 2006 and we have been thought Alot together but something about her has changed this past year we have been working together for 4 years now and she tries saying that the job causes her to loose her friends cause she already lost one and she stopped working with us and now she is trying to say that is what is wrong with us I have told her that the job has nothing to do with our friendship it's her that has changed she says she believes in God but haven't been saved and will never go to church 🙏🙏 please help me I try to love her but she makes it so so hard
That must be difficult. Thank you for sharing. I am praying for you and your friend to both grow closer to God and each other through this time.
Show your friend Romans 10:9 ... if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Thank you so so much I do know that church is in our hearts and that God knows our hearts and everything about us thank you for what you do it has helped me especially with this🙏🙏
I've thought about this for the past couple hours. When Don was sick, I truly found out who my friends were. Some took us from upstate NY to New York City to catch a plane to India, Picked us back up when we came back from India, helped with his care. Then he passed and those same friends are still there for me. They live far away but I only need to call day or night. I would call them non- practicing believers. Now here in SC, I have close friends again that are practicing believers. We would do anything for each other. I really found my faith when Don passed. I wasn't good about my faith throughout our marriage. Don was an atheist which didn't help. But now I need Jesus in my life. He is always there and helps me all the time. But I find I can't talk to non-believers about that. They watch me go to Church but its just not their thing I guess. Maybe in time. It took me a long time. This was a great walk. Thanks Donny.
Donna, sometimes actions speak louder than words. As long as you have Jesus, you will guided to know where to go and what to say, etc. Maybe in time, those friends will choose to ask Jesus into their hearts, but I bet you assisted in having that seed planted in their lives. Don't stop wherever God takes you on life's journey. Take care and God bless you my friend!
Hi Donny – absolutely loved the sunlight on your face & shoulder during your walk this morning. I had to chuckle when you kept referring to the term BEST friend at the end of your walk. There seems to be some synchronicity between us today. I just published an entry in my blog That’s Good To Know called The BEST. It’s about a good friend who passed away many years ago named Barb Best. https://substack.com/inbox/post/76521643 I'm pretty sure God is at work in me through this "coincidence." xoxo As always you gave me lots to think about. Thanks for the Bible references!
Ps Watch out on those country roads for the crazy deer and the busy farmers. Hee hee!
Jan, I just read your recent post and commented. I treasure each and every one of my friends. Those who have passed on, I'm glad I have those memories!
Hey Friend! I woke early to start on the treadmill, not wanting to disturb the wild horses in the neighborhood. Yes northern Nevada home to large herds of mustangs. Beautiful but hard on yards and protected.
I wanted to say when the lord picks a venue for your prayer walk, it’s stunning.
I have a friend who would lay down her life for me as John 15 says. She has been with me in some very hard times and some good times. She prays for me daily as I pray for her. I couldn't ask for a better friend. And Donny, I continue to pray for you daily. You are at the top of my prayer list.
Like Donna, I too learned who my true friends were when my husband died. I have just a couple I would call close friends, that I can call anytime day or middle of the night and they'd be there for me as I would for them. We can know a lot of people but just as Jesus with the disciples have only a few select close. Am I a good friend? I like to think I am, but I'm sure there is always room for improvement. You asked what our gift(s) are, and I would say mine would be service/helps. Which would include opening my home.
I have to say that your prayer walk today has left me devastated as I realise that I am not a good friend. Not to Jesus which is a horrible thought nor to my friends as I cannot really say that I am a friend . I have read those verses many times but until they are all put together like you did today they have not had the impact that they needed to. I find it hard to speak to people about Jesus and today I realise that that is because I have not been a real friend to Him nor have I really allowed Him to be my Friend. I have much soul searching and repenting to do in the coming days and weeks. Thank you so much for being so willing to share what God has placed on your heart even when you think it is a hard thing to say. You are a true friend even to those you have not met personally.
I felt that conviction as well. I have to say that I get busy...I just put a video out about boundaries and it is so hard to uphold them and still be available to all I want to be with as well as take care of me and work and take care of relationships/friends. So, all that to say, I think it is a struggle for me, too! I am going to commit to prayer that God will keep leading me in this area and that I will hear Him!
Sometimes when we feel that we always have to be the rescuer we put up walls that make it hard for people to rescue us. It’s good to be a listener but when we share from our own hearts people see you have troubles too. They want to also be a source of help.
I too fall short of being the kind of friend I should at times. You are a friend even if we live far away from another. This community has brought so many of us together in such a wonderful way. Like Cathey says, we all far short, but like me, it's something we can all pray and ask the Lord to guide us in being an even better friend from here and into the future. Take care and God bless my friend!
I understand your conviction as that was my first reaction, too. We all fall short. But you are a valued friend of mine and you speak the words of Jesus to me on a regular basis and especially when I need to hear it the most. Remember that David fell flat in his obedience, but God still called him His friend. Trust that Jesus IS your friend because He does not expect perfection, He expects a repentant heart and you have that. I'm praying that you come to trust that you are His friend and a friend to others as well.
May I say that we are all with you. This was a very "exposing" prayer walk, but in a positive way. In a time when so much of our Christian world provides ear candy, it's great to get a dose of real medicine. But again, it's all good. How blessed are we? For you to have such a realization is a sign that you're on the right track. As for friends, remember first of all that Jesus is our friend. And we have Donny and so many here in this community. Plus, aren't we also friends to ourselves? Just a start, so we just need to pray and walk and build on this foundation, Who is Christ the Lord! I look forward to your ongoing shares and more shares from all of the others. Amen!
How timely is this topic! I am meeting up tonight with friends that I have not seen in many years. Yes, I have changed since I last saw them, having gone so through so many trials and hopefully grown in my faith. I just hope we can reconnect in a real way, and that the Lord will guide me. It feels like this is where “the rubber meets the road,” so to speak. On the one hand, it's not easy, and yet if my faith is real, what do I have to fear?
I have a little story that I would like to share. I work three days in a Christian home, caring for a lady that has Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Lewy body dementia and she now has hallucinations from the time she wakes up in the morning till she goes to bed at night as these are the Lewy body dementia. Her hallucinations are only vision. I have been working with her for a year and a half, and I knew she was a born-again Christian and had been since she was about seven. I knew that she and her husband raise their children in the church and then a godly Home. When I first started working with her, she wasn’t as bad as she is today. She told me for stuff that she loved the Lord and she was a Christian and most of her family were Christian. Now today she has lost most of her memory, except when she was a young child. But one thing holds true she knows who Jesus is. Her and her husband have devotions about the time I arrive every morning, And she always prays out loud after their their devotion
I accidentally sent this but I wanted to finish my story. She may have forgotten who her family lives, who her husband is, but she’s never forgotten Who Jesus is. She has always talked about Jesus and that she loves him so much and he has been so good to her family. This just warms my heart. she has a disease that has stripped her of everything, except for the love of her Jesus. I read her devotion to her on a daily basis when I am there and I pray with her, she may forget who I am but as long as she says The name of Jesus I know he is with her. She has the truest form of her friendship with her Lord that always brings me to tears every time I see her or hear her pray to Jesus. She will forget what she’s praying about, But we redirect her And she is fine. That is the only person that she can remember is Jesus. Just something I wanted to share about friendship and about our relationship with Jesus.
Well, it seems God uses you to convict me at least once a week, so thanks for being THAT friend - lol. I am blessed to have so many great friends one of whom I have lived with since I was 20. God has been so faithful to put people around me during different seasons of my life. Some are believers, some are not. I do feel afraid of turning people away if I get too "preachy" about my faith, so I soft-peddle it far too often. I want to believe they can see my faith in the way I live. But bottom line, faith comes through hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (Rom. 10:17). I want to be a "life-giving" friend. So I just have to be open and let God give me what to say and when and how to say it while continuing to live like His Word is the most important thing to me. I'll be thinking and praying about whether that list of verses you shared is the kind of friend I am. Thanks for another great walk! I look forward to others' thoughts on this topic.
Hi Cathey ~ you know how I told Donny how I feel there's some synchronicity going on? I feel that way about us connecting. I don't know what God is doing, but I know it's for the good... xoxo
Jan, a little less busy at the office so to speak today. Even though that office is remotely at home, it gets busy on certain days. I agree with you and Cathey. The synchronicity in this group is so wonderful the way we are connecting with one another even though we live in different parts of the country or the world. I can't believe what God is doing in my own life in the last 7 to 8 months, but God is definitely preparing us for something GOOD!!! Praise Jesus is what I say. Cathey, I too can be the same way myself when being a little guarded about my faith depending on the situation or whom I with. That's what I'm hoping will NOT happen with my brother this weekend, but I think it will go well. Thank you two for your prayer support. I know Jesus will take the wheel as Carrie Underwood's song says!
I am already blessed by your friendship, Jan. I think we are kindred spirits. Also..... people who love to write are automatically special in my book! 💕💕💕
Once again, Espírito Santo guided you to such a cool and necessary topic, especially in times of social media when people are looking for a number of followers to put themselves in a position of “nice person”.
Graham in the first Podcast with Amber said something that I loved, said that I would rather have 50 followers that really connect with the content he produces, to the point of impacting these people's lives, than having a bunch of people on a superficial level, WOW!
I like to think of the concept of friendship in the light of the Bible based on the friendship between David and Jonathan, whoever attended Sunday school probably learned about being a friend from this scripture - 1 Samuel 18.
What I find beautiful about their friendship is that there is no expectation, but there is reciprocity, pillars that can sustain or destroy a friendship. Recently I found myself analyzing a person based on “my expectations” without considering that precisely because it is my expectations, the other is not obliged to behave as I determined (I am still re-signifying this experience).
My challenge is not in the friendships I already have, but in the ones I'm building. We believers live almost a duality, fulfilling God's commandment "love one another as I have loved you" and managing our emotions, for me this is a daily challenge!
In the “what is love” walk you said that the word “love” is being misused. I think we can consider this same perspective for the word “friend” as many friendships are being built on the fragility of modern relationships.
I loved the part where you say about offering to do something and actually don't. This is so important to me, I try to do what I promise! I try to be altruistic, but sometimes I get into a situation of seeking recognition for what I did, man, how dangerous this is, because it hurts a lot...
I agree with you when you say that we need to talk about our wonderful experience with Jesus, but I also think that “talking” can be through example, that is, the way I live says much more about my relationship with Jesus than mine ability to speak.
Anyway, another excellent walk, thank you for the message and reflection!
Donny, the subject of friendship on this prayer walk really resonates with me. My deepest desire is to be that friend that you speak of who will encourage and inspire others to be the best they can possibly be. That also involves listening and praying for others. God and HIS word is the guiding light that leads me to do any of this. Can I be better at this than I do now? Of course, I think we all can if we are perfectly honest with ourselves. I read John 15:13-15 before I viewed the video as I felt sure you would reference it. Friendship is marked by sacrifice in giving of ourselves to our friends and also to God/Jesus like you said, once we are truly saved, Jesus becomes our friend. I sincerely hope to continue to spread the love of God/Jesus I have even better than I do now after listening to the video. We are all a work in progress, and I know I am because I'm constantly growing. I know I cannot do any of this without God's direction and the love and support I continue to get through this community. I feed off that and love to give it right back. Thank you for this wonderful prayer walk. I will take everything you talked about, pray on it, read the Bible and let that guide me through the coming days.
I would like to add a prayer request for myself. I don't ask for prayer for myself too often, but I would appreciate it if you keep me in your prayers through this entire weekend. My brother is driving in Thursday, tomorrow from Alabama. He will be in town through Sunday I believe. I haven't seen him since last Christmas. I've changed quite a bit since he last saw me. Not because of the weight loss, but my faith has grown so much deeper and of course there are a lot of new things I'm involved with or doing, etc. He is a believer, but we never have discussed what our faith in Jesus means to one another. It's just something my family never discussed growing up. We were tight lipped. What I'm asking prayer for is guidance to be who I am NOW and to remain faithful to that. I don't want fear to take hold and those old walls/boundaries start to form. If the subject comes up, I want to be honest but not fearful of holding back like I can with you guys or my friends. I hope this makes sense. I appreciate this very much.
Donny, God bless you and this entire community. Have a great week.
I am praying. thank you for sharing
Thank you Donny! I do appreciate it very much. Hopefully, it will all go well. I'm looking forward seeing him, but a little apprehensive since I've grown in my faith since then. God has this, and I'm going to try and wear God's full armor at all times.
I am writing this for Anne. Please pray for her. She’s experiencing pains on her side. She’s concerned and would appreciate prayers. We love you, Anne! (From Tricia) 🙏❤️
Praying
I just talked with Anne. Her pain is slightly better. But definitely keep praying.
Hey Guys! Thank you for the prayers. Hopefully this isn’t serious at all. I asked for prayer for support which is definitely not easy for me but I am getting better at it. Honestly, I’ve never experienced anything like this before, naturally you get a little concerned but not too worried. I appreciate the prayers! A friend made a suggestion which I did so it may have helped a little. We will just have to see! Please don’t worry but I do appreciate the prayers! Love you guys! God definitely had this!
Is it reasonable or fair to tell people not to worry about someone they care about?
Enjoy this community, that God made, as it cares for you in prayer and concern.
Thank you Donny! Maybe feeling a little better now!
Thank you for the prayers! The pain and soreness seems to have lightened up. There’s still some tightness and pain but not like last night. You guys are the best and I appreciate the love and support!
Great to hear. Have a good week!
I’m praying for you Anne! I’m praying for a peace that surpasses all understanding that only God can give as this can be scary & for guidance on wether to go to the doctor & ultimately for the Lord to heal whatever it is!!🙏🙏❤️❤️ Love you dear friend!!!
& writing this for Anne:
She wants everyone to know the time with her brother is going well!
Praying for Anne. Thanks for letting us know.
Praying it's nothing serious! Feel better, Anne!
Anne, I am praying right now about your weekend with your brother and will continue to do so throughout the weekend. I pray that your conversations are fruitful and enriching and draw you closer together.
Thank you Cathey. It's easy round you guys and my cousins which we will be around on Friday, but a lot has changed for me since we last saw one another. We get along well, but we are so different. I just want to be who I am now around him. I truly think it will be fine, but I definitely need prayer. I appreciate it so much!
I know exactly what you mean. I am guarded around some of my family members, too. Shine your light and let God do the rest!
Prayers for you and your brother, that this weekend will be a special one, guided by the Lord and His presence. I know what you mean about reconnecting with people after we have been changed. I am meeting some friends tonight that I haven't seen in many years, and I have changed a lot in my faith since I last saw them.
Thank you Philip!
Praying for your weekend, dear Anne! I am thankful for our treasured friendship. This community has been holding me accountable, and I am thankful.
Thank you Tricia! I appreciate it.
Oh, Anne ~ I bet God will bless this reunion. It will be an awesome weekend for you both. ((Hugs))
Thanks Jan. He's coming in for his high school reunion. I had mine two weeks ago which went very well. We will be with family on Friday which I'm always myself with when around them. I think it will be fine, but there are some things I need to discuss with him, and that's why I requested prayer. Friends are one thing but some times we're guarded around family like Cathey shared. I appreciate it. I also plan on reading what you wrote on substack a little later. Can't wait because I always enjoy what you write. Hugs right back.
Oh, I get it! My family didn't talk about anything. Matter-of-fact, after my mom died my brother & I didn't talk for 2 years. I just have this gut feeling your interaction is going to go great. Fingers crossed; positive vibes on the way; prayers lifted.
Thank you Mary!
Thank you for this week prayer walk Donny. I am beyond blessed to have meet so many become friends from different walks of life thru this community.
I am faithful and I have meet some are non believers and meeting them under circumstances they ask what happened to me and I tell them without God I wouldn’t be here. A day later seeing them in the hallway of the place where we all stayed they started listening and praying along with me. I continue to spread my love of God with others some turn there backs and some stay’s and pray along with me. When all seems lost we can walk outside and breath - listen to the sounds surrounding us that can bring us back on our feet, looking around and knowing God is in all we see and do. Today, the Lord says; I am the friend who will not disappoint, I am the friend who will be strong when you need ME to be. I am the friend who will give you words of hope when you feel sad or disappointed. I am a friend who knows what you mean when you say “ I am dying inside” or I am so alone” and you are lost and afraid of the quiet. I am the friend who brings light into the darkness. “ God is my friend”, God says “ cast your burdens on me” - be still and know that I am God.
AMEN! Lucy, thank you for sharing these comments...yes, HE is our ultimate friend. He is the one that will never leave. We are sinful humans, so we will not be able to fully love each other, but He does love us as His children. Praises!
Lucy, you are definitely that kind of friend. Even though we live in different parts of the country, you are a valued friend of mine like others in this community. I love what you said. Just keep being who you are in the eyes of Jesus, and let HIS light continue to shine through you to others!
Hey my friend, Donny. I was walking and really listening to what you shared. I’ve had friends in the past I committed my personal thoughts and beliefs to that seemed to share mine. I’m still friends with one of them but when she moved it’s like I became invisible and she doesn’t even try to write, I guess she was a seasonal friend. Mark you know had a friend who was mostly a good friend but he never took him as his friend unless he was preaching or teaching to him. We both met a friend who not only confessed Jesus but treated us like we meant something. You are that someone. This is why you could speak so very well on being a friend. For that act of love and kindness I will forever remember you. In this social media space I have made a few friends but one in particular who has helped so much and allowed me to speak from the heart. I don’t have to say her name she knows who she is. When we are called to be a friend it takes a lot of courage to be one. We should be one regardless of how the other person treats us. I know only a few people that if I need prayer they literally stop what they are doing to pray. You do that too. Those I consider my friends.
I love you what you said Lucinda! True friends are hard to come by. I'm blessed to have the ones I have. I agree, DonnyMac is a very special friend to you, me, and all of us. We are so blessed by God to have someone like him that we can genuinely call a friend. You are my friend too, and if I haven't said that, I really mean that. I value your opinion, and I love reading your comments. Take care and God bless!
Thank you Anne. I appreciate you. I have just found that people don’t know really what friendship is all about. I’m finding closer friends through this medium than right next door. One thing I notice about Donny is he doesn’t judge he just loves people. I admire that and hope I can be a close friend to you too. God bless.
I agree 100% what you said about Donny! The feeling is mutual in being a close friend to you too! We will have to meet some day. We don't live too far from one another, so maybe on one my future trips to see my brother who lives in AL, etc. Take care!
God is amazing! How he has used these walks to bring us closer. Thank you to Donny for sharing his heart with us because of his heart is drawn to God! I feel overwhelmed by the blessing of new friends in my life because of this dear community. You, Lucinda, being one of them! I do believe that God brings people in and out of our lives for seasons, however, but sometimes that is hard when they leave. I know that may not be exactly what you are talking about in the case when your friend moved away. I do feel however that that there are seasons where God uses certain people to bring us closer to Him. Isn't that ultimately what we want from friends...to be brought closer to Him!?!? Blessings to you, dear!
So many wonderful comments! This community never does cease to amaze me. Donny, ugh, that is part of how I felt watching the walk. I was convicted. I am busy, and I feel I allow that to dominate more often than I prefer. I am committing to prayer that God help me to balance. I have had to limit time with friends in the last couple of years, so it is hard sometimes to feel that I am being selfish. Another feeling I had watching the walk was humbled and gratitude! I don't think I can fully comprehend the extent of how God loves me as a friend. Part of me does not really believe it to be honest. That is the part of me that still sees God on one hand up on a throne and not present right here with me but more sitting on a seat of judgment. I have not a doubt at all that He loves me fully, but it is hard to comprehend it at times. I am His friend...wow! What a thought. I agree I will continue to chew on this for a while. Thanks for being a friend to challenge me!! Blessings to you all!
Tricia, you’re right that that it’s hard to comprehend how vast and much God loves us, but the Bible states we can’t comprehend or know that in this lifetime. A lot to think about. Whew! Take care and God bless my friend!
Donny it's so funny that you were talking about a true friend I have been friends with someone sense 2006 and we have been thought Alot together but something about her has changed this past year we have been working together for 4 years now and she tries saying that the job causes her to loose her friends cause she already lost one and she stopped working with us and now she is trying to say that is what is wrong with us I have told her that the job has nothing to do with our friendship it's her that has changed she says she believes in God but haven't been saved and will never go to church 🙏🙏 please help me I try to love her but she makes it so so hard
That must be difficult. Thank you for sharing. I am praying for you and your friend to both grow closer to God and each other through this time.
Show your friend Romans 10:9 ... if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Thank you so so much I do know that church is in our hearts and that God knows our hearts and everything about us thank you for what you do it has helped me especially with this🙏🙏
Yes, a seed has been planted. We may never know in our lifetime about people that we pray for even on a daily basis. That is hard, but God has them!
Robin, keep praying for your friend, and I will too! I bet a seed has been planted. Take care and God bless!
Thank you so much it hurts that after all these years we have came down to this🙏🙏
I've thought about this for the past couple hours. When Don was sick, I truly found out who my friends were. Some took us from upstate NY to New York City to catch a plane to India, Picked us back up when we came back from India, helped with his care. Then he passed and those same friends are still there for me. They live far away but I only need to call day or night. I would call them non- practicing believers. Now here in SC, I have close friends again that are practicing believers. We would do anything for each other. I really found my faith when Don passed. I wasn't good about my faith throughout our marriage. Don was an atheist which didn't help. But now I need Jesus in my life. He is always there and helps me all the time. But I find I can't talk to non-believers about that. They watch me go to Church but its just not their thing I guess. Maybe in time. It took me a long time. This was a great walk. Thanks Donny.
Donna, sometimes actions speak louder than words. As long as you have Jesus, you will guided to know where to go and what to say, etc. Maybe in time, those friends will choose to ask Jesus into their hearts, but I bet you assisted in having that seed planted in their lives. Don't stop wherever God takes you on life's journey. Take care and God bless you my friend!
Thank You Anne.
Hi Donny – absolutely loved the sunlight on your face & shoulder during your walk this morning. I had to chuckle when you kept referring to the term BEST friend at the end of your walk. There seems to be some synchronicity between us today. I just published an entry in my blog That’s Good To Know called The BEST. It’s about a good friend who passed away many years ago named Barb Best. https://substack.com/inbox/post/76521643 I'm pretty sure God is at work in me through this "coincidence." xoxo As always you gave me lots to think about. Thanks for the Bible references!
Ps Watch out on those country roads for the crazy deer and the busy farmers. Hee hee!
Loved your Substack post, Jan. I've lost some very dear friends and family and my memories of them are still so precious to me.
Jan, I just read your recent post and commented. I treasure each and every one of my friends. Those who have passed on, I'm glad I have those memories!
Hey Friend! I woke early to start on the treadmill, not wanting to disturb the wild horses in the neighborhood. Yes northern Nevada home to large herds of mustangs. Beautiful but hard on yards and protected.
I wanted to say when the lord picks a venue for your prayer walk, it’s stunning.
I wrote this recently...
I’ve been thinking
Friendship is indeed a superpower
We all are capable of processing it
We all are capable of reaching out and
Touching human beings with our words,
Actions, and deeds.
Stay close to the people who feel like sunlight.
Awesome walk! Hugs!
I have a friend who would lay down her life for me as John 15 says. She has been with me in some very hard times and some good times. She prays for me daily as I pray for her. I couldn't ask for a better friend. And Donny, I continue to pray for you daily. You are at the top of my prayer list.
Thank you for your prayers Terri 🙂🙏🏼
Like Donna, I too learned who my true friends were when my husband died. I have just a couple I would call close friends, that I can call anytime day or middle of the night and they'd be there for me as I would for them. We can know a lot of people but just as Jesus with the disciples have only a few select close. Am I a good friend? I like to think I am, but I'm sure there is always room for improvement. You asked what our gift(s) are, and I would say mine would be service/helps. Which would include opening my home.
I have to say that your prayer walk today has left me devastated as I realise that I am not a good friend. Not to Jesus which is a horrible thought nor to my friends as I cannot really say that I am a friend . I have read those verses many times but until they are all put together like you did today they have not had the impact that they needed to. I find it hard to speak to people about Jesus and today I realise that that is because I have not been a real friend to Him nor have I really allowed Him to be my Friend. I have much soul searching and repenting to do in the coming days and weeks. Thank you so much for being so willing to share what God has placed on your heart even when you think it is a hard thing to say. You are a true friend even to those you have not met personally.
I felt that conviction as well. I have to say that I get busy...I just put a video out about boundaries and it is so hard to uphold them and still be available to all I want to be with as well as take care of me and work and take care of relationships/friends. So, all that to say, I think it is a struggle for me, too! I am going to commit to prayer that God will keep leading me in this area and that I will hear Him!
Sometimes when we feel that we always have to be the rescuer we put up walls that make it hard for people to rescue us. It’s good to be a listener but when we share from our own hearts people see you have troubles too. They want to also be a source of help.
Beautifully said!
I too fall short of being the kind of friend I should at times. You are a friend even if we live far away from another. This community has brought so many of us together in such a wonderful way. Like Cathey says, we all far short, but like me, it's something we can all pray and ask the Lord to guide us in being an even better friend from here and into the future. Take care and God bless my friend!
I understand your conviction as that was my first reaction, too. We all fall short. But you are a valued friend of mine and you speak the words of Jesus to me on a regular basis and especially when I need to hear it the most. Remember that David fell flat in his obedience, but God still called him His friend. Trust that Jesus IS your friend because He does not expect perfection, He expects a repentant heart and you have that. I'm praying that you come to trust that you are His friend and a friend to others as well.
Thank you. It is easier to talk to other christians about Jesus but I never seem to find it easy to my non-chirstian riends.
You are not alone. That's a struggle I have, too.
May I say that we are all with you. This was a very "exposing" prayer walk, but in a positive way. In a time when so much of our Christian world provides ear candy, it's great to get a dose of real medicine. But again, it's all good. How blessed are we? For you to have such a realization is a sign that you're on the right track. As for friends, remember first of all that Jesus is our friend. And we have Donny and so many here in this community. Plus, aren't we also friends to ourselves? Just a start, so we just need to pray and walk and build on this foundation, Who is Christ the Lord! I look forward to your ongoing shares and more shares from all of the others. Amen!
Donny, Thank you again for another great prayer walk. I find a special friend right on your prayer walk. I appreciate her every day.🙏🏻
Lois, You are a dear friend I have been praying for daily, Jesus loves you and so do I! 💚💛💙
How timely is this topic! I am meeting up tonight with friends that I have not seen in many years. Yes, I have changed since I last saw them, having gone so through so many trials and hopefully grown in my faith. I just hope we can reconnect in a real way, and that the Lord will guide me. It feels like this is where “the rubber meets the road,” so to speak. On the one hand, it's not easy, and yet if my faith is real, what do I have to fear?
I have a little story that I would like to share. I work three days in a Christian home, caring for a lady that has Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Lewy body dementia and she now has hallucinations from the time she wakes up in the morning till she goes to bed at night as these are the Lewy body dementia. Her hallucinations are only vision. I have been working with her for a year and a half, and I knew she was a born-again Christian and had been since she was about seven. I knew that she and her husband raise their children in the church and then a godly Home. When I first started working with her, she wasn’t as bad as she is today. She told me for stuff that she loved the Lord and she was a Christian and most of her family were Christian. Now today she has lost most of her memory, except when she was a young child. But one thing holds true she knows who Jesus is. Her and her husband have devotions about the time I arrive every morning, And she always prays out loud after their their devotion
I accidentally sent this but I wanted to finish my story. She may have forgotten who her family lives, who her husband is, but she’s never forgotten Who Jesus is. She has always talked about Jesus and that she loves him so much and he has been so good to her family. This just warms my heart. she has a disease that has stripped her of everything, except for the love of her Jesus. I read her devotion to her on a daily basis when I am there and I pray with her, she may forget who I am but as long as she says The name of Jesus I know he is with her. She has the truest form of her friendship with her Lord that always brings me to tears every time I see her or hear her pray to Jesus. She will forget what she’s praying about, But we redirect her And she is fine. That is the only person that she can remember is Jesus. Just something I wanted to share about friendship and about our relationship with Jesus.