The Friend Zone

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. – Romans 8:28

“You’re a really great person. Let’s just be friends.”

I hate that line. I hear those words and immediately regret all the things I did to impress the guy saying them. The new haircut and highlights. The pedicures. The makeup. The cute dress. The matching shoes. I wish I’d never done any of it…and I sure don’t want to be his friend anymore. What about you? Have you been there?

It hurts. And it’s about that time that I don’t want to believe in God’s goodness anymore. I don’t want to believe that everything is working together for my good. But the Bible says God doesn’t withhold anything from those who seek Him. “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for,” Jesus says in Matthew 7:7.

Are you stuck in a moment, wishing for a relationship with someone who’s only interest in friendship? Pray about it. Not sure how to interact with the coworker you can’t take your eyes off of? Spend some time getting wise council. Are you eyeing someone in your group of friends? Go out of your way to show them who you are, but don’t go over the top. All too often, we get caught up in trying to impress the opposite sex and end up wounding our pride…or committing our heart to a person who won’t keep it well. It’s when our desire to impress others supersedes our desire for God that we get ourselves into trouble. Big time. God is our Living Water and Bread of Life. He is more than enough to supply all of our needs – including our need for a relationship.

Prayer: Encourage and empower me to see beyond my disappointed hopes. Thank you for your grace and mercy, and for the plans you are working out for my good. Amen.