😎🐫🎤 Christ’s peace be with you. Earlier this week Brian and I celebrated our 18th anniversary by spending a few days in the Traverse City, MI area. Wow! I’m really in awe of the beauty God created in that area. Sure, being in the Dayton, OH area we see flat corn fields all of the time. But add some rolling hills and dimension to those corn fields as they have in the Traverse City area and you have a very different view and perspective. It’s interesting how changing one element of a situation can change so much. It wasn’t too long ago that I was sitting in the back seat of my car writing a 😎🐫 message, while waiting for a friend. When she arrived, she asked why I was sitting in the back seat. My reply, “It’s a different perspective.” Occasionally we all need that backseat perspective. Perspective and attitude will incredibly change a moment. The lakes in MI were so clear, blue, and warm. It’s been about 12 years since I actually spent some time in water other than a shower, but their beauty just drew me in.
A few years back when a local bookstore went out of business, I purchased a book that I wasn’t looking for, but it was on clearance and its title intrigued me so I purchased it. You know, those planned “chance” moments can be the greatest guides in our lives if we open ourselves to them. The book is “The Power of One on One” by Jim Stump. One on one, that’s what we shared this weekend. We left the campground early and stayed out late. In four days of camping, we never even started a fire. If you know me, you know that’s a big deal. Thinking about this just now, it’s interesting that I was pulled back from the fire and drawn to the water. Hmmm, that’s something else to contemplate. Anyway, I feel I’m all over the place this week, but just hang with me a bit longer. I grew up playing a different sport each season and I kind of had rotating, seasonal friendships. Hanging out with a group of friends for me, became more about just having a good time and conversation that just scratched the surface of life, love, concerns, and growth. And we all need that alone time to help center ourselves, quiet down our spirit, and have one on one moments with the Lord. But I believe where I thrive is in one on one walks and talks. I believe that’s where you are most free go deep with others. Undistracted time, asking those challenging questions and opening your heart and soul without fear of judgment, knowing that matters discussed are held in confidence and love. Being away from the distractions of everyday life is one of the reasons why I really enjoy road trips with Brian. Spending hours in a car with only one other person will certainly initiate conversations that would have never otherwise happened. I want to encourage you to tap into the power of one on one relationships. Allow them to be open, vulnerable, find joy, and go deep. Allow your cup to be filled ‘til it overflows. The blessings you discover will be beyond measure. Bless others and be blessed.
#TobyMac – Overflow
#JimStump – The Power of One on One
Third Day Devotions 