Moments for Mums: Not Alone - Part 1ናሙና

Researchers have found that it takes up to 50 hours to make a new friend, and more like 200 hours for a close friend. That means we need time and patience to make new friends. It also means we need time, and effort, to strengthen our existing ones.

Having children helps you to meet new people. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), church, playgroups, and the park are all perfect places to meet other mums and share our experiences. But going deeper can be hard, especially with little ones in tow. We’ve all been on playdates when the start of every meaningful conversation was interrupted. Or coffee dates with friends where we spent more time wiping up spilt babyccinos and banana bread than sipping our own coffee and chatting.

It can feel like our friendships are on the back burner while raising young children. But every little bit we sow is still a blessing to someone else and will reap a harvest over our years of friendship. We need friendship. We need support. And we need each other.

Question
Which new friendships or acquaintances is God asking you to focus on today? Which long-standing friendships do you value most in your life? What can you do to strengthen them today?

Prayer
Dear Lord, making and keeping friends takes effort, but thank You that You designed friendship to be a blessing. Help me to love my friends at all times, even when I’m busy and distracted. Amen.

Source: Why do we find making new friends so hard as adults