Needing to Be Knownಮಾದರಿ

One of the excuses I used that prevented me from making friends was rooted in fear. I was afraid to open our home; I was convinced no one would show up for us. For my 30th birthday, I felt this nudge in my heart to host a birthday coffee shop at our house. We would have a come-and-go time in the morning where people could stop in and grab a cup of coffee, see our new house, and spend time together. I debated hosting for months. It was going to have to be on a Tuesday morning to work with my husband’s traveling schedule, and my internal voice told me I was crazy. Despite all of the reasons not to do it, I went for it anyway.

2 Timothy 1:7 says, "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline"

Fear will keep you paralyzed, but choosing to be obedient to God’s direction despite the fear is where dependence grows. We grow to depend on the Spirit for strength and love when we step out in faith.

How did the coffee shop turn out? It was incredible opening our home to people and using our time, space, and money to create community. We decided to do it again for my husband's 30th, and the cover image for this plan is the result. Fear is lying to you. People do like you, people do want to be friends, people just like you are lonely and need to be known. Giving a space for people to be themselves and deepen relationships matters, and God may be calling you to be that home.

Today’s challenge: Host! Invite someone over. It doesn't have to be a whole party, just invite a friend over for dessert or a couple over for a game night. Start small and build up the confidence to invite people over. Don’t take it personally if they say no, you will find your people!