Fun on Four Wheelers

Can I just say it?  I love my life group.  These folks have become more than friends.  We support, love and laugh well together.  Last weekend we spent some time on a ranch.  Our weekend was slow, fun and we ate like pigs.  Homemade cinnamon rolls, homemade ice cream with fresh fruit toppings and delicious fajitas filled our stomachs.  Games, naps and laughter filled our souls.  We spent time riding over rough terrain on four wheelers like teenagers and we sat under the shade trees visiting like old folks.  Picking blackberries, fishing and target practice were delightful interludes.  Yep, we played hard.

Our group has been together for almost 3 years now.  We have seen people come and go.  Our resolve to remain together has been high.  This weekend we termed ourselves "Lifers".   With all this fun, each one of us could tell you that it has not always been easy.  Community and friendship takes work and determination.  Our personal lives are full with careers, family and home.  So how did we come this far?

1.  We have made group a priority in our lives.  Tuesday night is our night.  Nothing comes in the way of our time together
2.  We have fun together.  Playing, eating and travel brings us together.
3.  We pray together.  Something happens when you hear your friends praying over your concerns while they deeply believe in God to give His best to you.
4.  We always spur one another on to follow God through His Word.

I returned home so incredibly thankful for my friends.  Friends are a rich blessing from our Lord.  United by Him, we know that no matter where we may be, we have companions for this amazing adventure called life.

Who are some of your spiritual friends?  What makes them special to you?