The Beauty Found in the Village
Have you ever heard the saying, it takes a village? While it can certainly “take a village” to raise a child, this statement has resonated with me more than ever recently; but in a little bit of a different way.
In recent years, I have noticed how much I deeply cherish my inner circle. Those friends and family members that are just so incredibly precious. The people who have your back at all times, yet will also tell you what you need to hear when you might not actually want to hear it. Those invaluable individuals who love you for you and will support you through thick and thin.
What Makes a Village?
Everyone’s village looks different. And I do believe that our village can change with each new season of life. There is no certain amount of people in a village and there isn’t a specific way to build a village. The village should be full of individuals who uplift you, not bring you down.
My village looks like a beautiful group of people with different talents and family sizes. With different ages and careers. With multiple children and some individuals without any children at all. But, we all have similar views and a genuine Christ-like love for one another. They are people who authentically care for me and my family’s best interest. Who will be there no matter the circumstance and watch over my children with care, as if they were their own. They encourage me and give good godly advice. It is a beautiful, messy, chaotic, exciting, sometimes funny, Jesus loving village!
I See Jesus in My Village
One of the many blessings of my village is their love for Jesus. I feel energized and excited to be a Christ-follower when I am with individuals from my village. One of my favorite scriptures that I feel like defines some of the relationships in my village is Proverbs 27:17. It says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (NIV). We challenge one another, encourage, give support and guidance when needed, etc. They shine the Light and love unconditionally.
There is Beauty
There is something so precious and beautiful about doing life with like-minded people. Jesus says, “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20, NKJV). Having a community of individuals who love you for you and stand with you when you’ve made a mistake. People that can tolerate your sometimes snippy attitude or the occasional bouncing off-the-walls behavior of your children. The people who can enter your home when it is at it’s absolute worst state without a comment or even a negative thought of who you are and how you manage your home. Those who love both you and your husband and don’t take sides if an issue arises and help is needed. The people who truly know you and see Jesus in you.
Mama’s Need a Village
If your a mom, I know you can relate. Being a mom is an extremely rewarding yet difficult task. You give so much to your family and often times feel a little forgotten and/or worn out. Having other mama’s to spend time with and encourage one another is so important! It is amazing how helpful it is to lift one another up and affirm other moms. Our work doesn’t always feel important, but we are blessed with one of the most important and necessary jobs there is, and we shouldn’t do it alone!
My Prayer for You
I pray that your village is a positive one that uplifts and encourages you. That you have a village that encourages transparency and that you feel comfortable sharing the tough stuff with. I pray that only goodness and godliness is allowed in your village and that any wiles of the evil one are struck down and are not allowed to come to fruition.
If you do not have a village of your own, I pray you find your village. That you are surrounded by a circle of people who care deeply and genuinely about you. That this village institutes only good things that bring honor and glory to God. I pray you find safety and peace in your village. In Jesus name, Amen!
