Conflict

I get queasy. My stomach turns into knots.  I literally want to run, hide, and curl up in comfy clothes and a blanket.  Even when I’m not involved in the conflict I feel this way (like right now!).  I hate it.   Just thought I’d share…maybe I’ll have more thoughts later.

Life Together

1 Thessalonians 2:7-8

NIV

As apostles of Christ we could have been a burden to you, 7but we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children. 8We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.

NASB

But we proved to be gentle among you, as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children.

8Having so fond an affection for you, we were well-pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us.

ESV

But we were gentle among you,like a nursing mother taking care of her own children. 8So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.

 

To not only share the Gospel, but to do life together.  To share in the journey.  To be involved. To share our whole selves–the good, the bad, the struggles, the triumphs.  Authentic lives living together.  Going through life together.

Intentionally choosing to invest and “do life with others” isn’t easy!  Sometimes this choice requires being vulnerable and can get uncomfortable.  Yet, accountability, encouragement, understanding, love and such can result.

I want to be vulnerable, honest, authentic, true, and to show others that I care enough about them to share myself–my time, my struggles, my thoughts, my sin, all of me.