Let's Hang Out

Have you ever had words leave your mouth only to be followed by the confusing realization that you just uttered the catchphrase of your best friend? It's usually at that moment when I evaluate and rethink my choice in friends. Ok, maybe I don't do that but it does present an interesting commentary about the effect the people we spend time with have on the way we think, the way we act, and even who we are.

Last Sunday, I was blessed with the opportunity to talk with the 5th and 6th grade students at JAM (5th & 6th grade youth group) about this very idea. It didn't take them long to identify the ways their friends influence them. As adults, we might go immediately to peer pressure and the negative behaviors that can stem from that sort of engagement but it was encouraging to hear the good things that happened when these students spent time around friends who were positive influences and how they have been personally transformed because of it.

So who do you hang out with? Your family, your friends, your coworkers, maybe your dog? These are the people who influence you but is God also on that list? Well, how often do you guys hang out? Is he that friend who you randomly run into and inevitably say, "We need to hang out soon! It's been way too long," but somehow never get around to it? What would it take to start seeing God more? Perhaps, with friends, we schedule a regular coffee meeting. What intentional plans can we make with God?

This 60 Day Challenge is a challenge to be with others, yes. It's about worshiping together, studying together, and serving together. This Christian community is important but, even more than that is our time with our Lord. When Jesus is at the center of our worship, study, and service, our relationship with him starts to grow. When we set aside time to be in the Word and in prayer we are allowing that friendship to flourish.

And then, suddenly, words leave your mouth only to be immediately followed by the comforting realization that you just uttered a truth spoken by your Lord and Savior.

The Lord is near to all who call on him,

    to all who call on him in truth.

-Psalm 145:18