We Need Each Other 11.18.16

“Two people are better off than one for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Likewise two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.”  Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

I never fully understood the importance of friendship until my mom passed away in February.  My parents have lived in the same small town, went to the same church, and lived in the same house since the early 80’s. Over the 35+ years in Chickasha, they have invested so much love into many different friendships. They created a tribe of people who they loved, took care of, encouraged, partnered with, empowered and supported. And when my mom unexpectedly took her trip to heaven, it was my Dad’s turn to receive the support they had shown so many people throughout the years.

As time continues and we are now on month nine without my sweet mom, my dad still has multiple people drop by the house every week. He still receives cards in the mail and daily text messages from friends. The prayers and support from his community are what has gotten him through the darkest time of his life.

Throughout the whole Word, we are reminded of the importance of friends. We are called to protect, encourage, strengthen and support each other.

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Proverbs 17:17

Relationships, no matter the type, can be hard but are rewarding. This life on Earth can be tough, but I am thankful the Lord has blessed our lives with wonderful people. We are thankful for friends who encourage us to never give up and remind us to always look to Him.

I pray today you can be a friend to others. There is no better way to show the love of Christ than to love and be a loyal friend.

There are 11 comments

By Old Jarilyn | November 18, 2016 at 9:10 am

Ecc.4:9-12 is my favorite! I experienced the same realization and love 24 years ago when my Dad suddenly took his heavenly home. Btw, your parents are awesome!

By Kandyce Cudjo | November 18, 2016 at 9:21 am

Jar!! It’s such a good one. I’ve always heard it when being used regarding marriage … but when I read the whole chapter, I realized it is directed more towards the importance of friendships. So glad you enjoyed it!

By Jamie Killion | November 18, 2016 at 9:21 am

Your mom was an amazing friend! I never heard a discouraging word ever come out of her mouth. But often, (really every time I saw her) in the same spirit of Barnabus, she would build me up, and encourage me. When you are in ministry people like Debe breathe life, in the midst others who seem to suck the life out of you. The power of those life-givers to empower a pastor cannot be under estimated. I am confident that she prayed for me over and over, and I think that I am still the beneficiary of that work. I also appreciate her kind heart, and maybe most of all, her laughter. I think she made everyone around her feel like they were incredibly important to her. That is a gift that we should all desire to possess. I love you Kandyce! I am praying for your family right now.

By Kandyce Cudjo | November 18, 2016 at 9:25 am

Thank you so much, Jamie. I can picture you telling me this and from the most genuine place of your heart. She sure did love (& still does!) you. Thank you for being such a great support system for our family. Love your family so very much.

By Leah Feild | November 18, 2016 at 10:01 am

My babies love their “Papa John”. They tackle him every Sunday morning and any other time they see him. I miss your mom and her smile and hugs and love so much. When I think about how I want to be to others, I think of your mom.

By Kandyce Cudjo | November 18, 2016 at 10:20 am

Oh, I love that!! We have pretty good mama’s as role models to strive towards. 🙂

By Joan Clemons | November 18, 2016 at 3:42 pm

Kandyce, I can just see your mom beaming at these remarks. She was a friend & truly made everyone feel special & loved. Love you.

By Kenny POWELL | November 19, 2016 at 5:04 pm

Love your sweet mama and your dad they are great people kp

By Christy Green | November 19, 2016 at 5:25 pm

Kandyce,
Your mom was such a fun loving boss and friend. There hasn’t been a week go by that I don’t hear her contagious laugh, or think I see her somewhere. I continue to pray for you guys and your dad.

By Rashanna Smith | December 7, 2016 at 6:05 pm

I had no idea your mom passed away, my prayers are with you & your family. Such a touching post. Love your blog btw!

By Kandyce Cudjo | December 7, 2016 at 10:37 pm

Thanks so much, Shanna. It means so much to me that you read and follow our blog. Makes my heart really happy. Xoxo.

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