It is so easy when you have an auto-immune disease and you are a true introvert to sit at home for peace. Effort and energy are required to have relationships so when flares hit the easy answer is to hibernate. I am finding that what really fills my heart is time with Godly women. The Lord has brought three women into my life who are seeking, hearing and living out the word.
It is such a life-giving time when we can gather together. This group of women have been journeying through the One Year Bible together. It was unintentional that we discovered this about one another. When we meet by text or face to face it is a blessing to hear what they have heard from God in those same verses.
As women in His word , we are daily seeking to hear His voice for our lives.
Hearing His word and fleshing it out together helps us better live the life that He is calling us to live.
“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.”
Hebrews 4:12 NLT
http://bible.com/116/heb.4.12.nlt
Hebrews reminds us that His word is alive and powerful. Living things move and have power to make change. God word is doing this in our lives as individuals and our lives as a group.
We also spend time in prayer with one another and for one another.
God speaks through His Word and His voice. Through prayer He has given us words for one another that could only be from Him.
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
Prayers are powerful and healing. It is encouraging to know that like-minded friends are lifting you and your circumstances in prayer.
Praise is an aspect of our friendship.
There is not a time that these friends do not give credit where it is due. He is the one who deserves the praise and we want to honor that.
“With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord: “He is good; his love toward Israel endures forever.” And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid.”
My auto-immune, introverted friends-I encourage you to step out and find a community of friends who are in the word & praying. A great way to begin is here.
If you do this in real life then you will be less likely to dwell in the pit of your pain. You will look to the needs and concerns of others. Learn to walk in joy and not live in the pit of despair. I know that not all days are easy, but women who pray together and read His word are stronger than some old auto immune craziness. God is Bigger!