Mercy me … did this second Friday of 2016 come swooping in like a tornado for you too?!
Happy Friday friends! If you’ve had a rough time getting back into your post-holiday routine, you are not alone. I’m with you.
But today I’ve got some sweet 16 encouragement for you from my friend Melissa. AND at the end of her post, there’s a chance to win this amazing ESV Journaling Bible! Valued at $45 AND out of stock on amazon! This is a hot item.
Meet the lovely Melissa …
For nothing will be impossible with God. Luke 1: 37
I know this is true. I do, but I have to say it is easily forgotten in the chaos and hurry of the day. As stress mounts, along with bills and laundry, the almost endless list of demands seems impossible to finish. Throw homework and a stressed friend into the mix, next to “hangry” teenagers and everything seems impossible at that moment.
Can you relate?
This past Christmas season, I have focused on the story of Mary and Elizabeth. I so wish we knew more about the friendship between these two women. What was said, done, shared…I do know that Mary hurried to see her aged, pregnant cousin right after the angel appeared to her. Mary could have gone to her mother or her girlfriends, but she hurried to see Elizabeth.
She must have replayed over and over in her mind the conversation she’d had with angel. What incredible news for Mary to carry, and she carried it to Elizabeth. Both women shared miracles, life. What was once empty was now filled. Not only both carrying children, but these women carried the precious promises that they were part of God’s plan! What a special bond these ladies must have shared! God had accomplished the impossible in both of them!
And isn’t that like God … to accomplish the impossible in us, to take this broken sinner and make her clean, whole?
In His kindness, Jesus reaches down to do the impossible, the miraculous. Mary had Elizabeth to share her journey with. Who shares in your journey?
Both Mary and Elizabeth had to wait for their children to born. It was in the waiting that these women shared life together. For three months, Mary stayed with Elizabeth. Poor Zechariah…couldn’t speak a word. God definitely has a sense of humor!
They ate, cleaned, sewed…did life together. They encouraged and cheered each other on, while waiting for the impossible to come forth.
While we wait, where do we spend our time? Who is in our community?
And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.”
Luke 1: 45
Praise God for life speaking women in my life…for the community of encouragers who remind me what the Lord has spoken. That even seemingly impossible things will be fulfilled! I am so grateful for the Elizabeths in my life. For those people who direct me back to Jesus, to focus on Him and not my gigantic pile of laundry, dirty dishes, or tough circumstances.
So when life gets hard, as it often does, remember that nothing will be impossible with God!
This year can be a year filled with you experiencing the promises God has for you life as you dig deeper into His Word. I’m giving away a super, fun, inspiring and beautiful journaling Bible! Click here to see the full description of this awesome Bible on Amazon.
[image: Lifeway]
Enter Melissa’s giveaway by leaving a comment here on the blog, sharing who is an “Elizabeth” in your life! Melissa will select the winner and contact them via email on Monday.
To stay connected with Melissa:
Visit her blog!
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124 Comments
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I am blessed to have two “Elizabeths” in my life. They are both like mothers to me and since my parents are deceased, I have grown very close to these two women. One of them gives advice and guidance. She is very practical and helps me with everyday life as well as my spiritual walk. The other woman is like my “Italian Mom”. We share the same hobbies, like the same things, and she is not afraid to call things as she sees them. She and I have been through similar losses, difficulties and trials, so that we support each other with our experience and testimonies. I believe The Lord put these women in my life to watch over me, and teach me, until he calls them home. Glory to God in the Highest!
I have two best friends, Donnette and Maria who have always been there for me, speaking the life-giving Word of God into my life. I am so grateful to God for sending them into my life!
My friend, Sonda is my “Elizabeth” in my life. She has always been an encourager to me and always speaks God into my life. In many ways we are like sisters….so close that we think the same thoughts and finish each others sentences. She is such a gift to me! I pray I am half the God-gift to her as she is to me.
I really don’t think I could manage without the many Elizabeths in my life! I have my friends of great faith including Shelley, Rene and Caroline (and many more) and then all the women in my bible study encourage me weekly. I thank God for giving me these lovely women!
I am privileged to be in a moms group at my local church where I have a wonderful “mentor mom” named Sandra. She encourages me in my journey as a new mother and reminds me of the importance of my job as a mother. Sandra is my Elizabeth.
My lifelong friend Heather in my Elizabeth. There isn’t a struggle we haven’t shared as both our husbands were called into ministry. We lean on each other for support in the midst of unusual and trying circumstances. I’m so thankful God gave me my Elizabeth.
I don’t really have an Elizabeth in my life. My husband shares my life journey, but I don’t feel like I have a close friend that I can call my “Elizabeth”.
I can definitely relate with you Kim! I wish I had that “Elizabeth” in my life, but it just isn’t the case in the season of my life. <3
Kim,
I have been praying for you…One of my favorite names of God is El Roi, the God who sees. I am praying the you see Him seeing you and that you KNOW how precious you are to Him! God bless you sweet sister <3
The story of Mary and Elizabeth was interesting to me too and you’ve encouraged a deeper look into their relationship after reading this blog… Who is my Elizabeth? Sad to say but I don’t have an Elizabeth… Often times I feel very alone in my walk with Jesus… Finding Proverbs 31, various blogs and online studies have brought me closer to God but I do miss the face to face, girlfriends sharing type of encouragement in my walk…. Recently I have found a great church and hope to grow great Elizabeth and Mary type relationships… My prayer for 2016 is to lean into Jesus and have faith that he is guiding me to rich, encouraging, beautiful friendships (not just acquaintances) that I can also be there for them too.. Till then, my thanks to blogs, Nickis words of faith and my P31 girls! God is good 🙂
I am so grateful for your comments Joanne! I am so pleased that my post caused you to dig deeper 🙂 Authentic relationships are vital and so very important to Jesus…I am confident He will bring you your Elizabeth as you earnestly seek Him <3
What a wonderful word for the day! I find it refreshing as I have recently had a very rough season and have struggled quite a bit due to a move across the U.S., away from my family and friends and church. BUT, I am thankful to have an Elizabeth in my life, that no matter what I’m going through, she encourages me, lifts me up, reminds me who I am in the Lord, and just helps remind me that I’m okay and that I’m loved.
My friend Amber is definitely my “Elizabeth”. She has truly been a gift from God in my life and has walked with me through a very difficult season in 2015- praying for me, reminding me who God is and that He loves me and will never forsake me. I am so grateful to God that He placed her in my life 6 years ago.
My friend Dottie is my “Elizabeth”. She is so wise, loves the Lord and is beautiful inside and out.
I am so thankful to God for putting her in my life.
The Elizabeth in my life is an elderly cousin Pearl. And she indeed is a pearl. I can go to her anytime about anything. She has been a spiritual mother and example to me. We share so many things in common and despite our age difference she knows me , she gets me.
The Elizabeth in my life is my bestie, Linds. She came into my life alongside motherhood, when our eldest daughters showed up for the first day of pre-school in tutus. They became instant friends, and so did we. Our friendship has grown because God has willed it. There’s no other explanation for it. Though seemingly stark in difference, our faith in Jesus is a perfect match.
The most comforting thing about our friendship is that we are constantly pointing each other back to Jesus…not trying to solve each other’s problems thinking we know better. It’s a gift to share a laugh over what a hot mess we are some days… And tears over our daughter’s hurt feelings. We have had to learn how to forgive misunderstandings and limit our circl of influence. There have been times when we both needed to step back and pray… But God has always answered our prayers and helped us grow.
We make each other better… Because better, to us, is centered around His will for our lives.
…even though we are a hot mess on a lot of days!!!
Happy Friday, and I pray every gal has a friendship like that. It’s just good for the soul.
Megs
I am blessed to have several “Elizabeths”, including my stepmom, 2 sisters, and my bestfriend! They each speak to my heart and encourage me! So thankful!
Been blessed with close friends. So many times I see the love of Jesus through them.
Life has many struggles and it can be hard to survive. But I’m grateful did the Elizabeth’s in my life which are my two sisters. They encourage me to keep moving forward and I am blessed to have them. I would love this journaling bible.
Correcting my email address
Right now in my season of life, I am praying for an “Elizabeth”. My dear friend/mentor passed away sometime back. But, during this season I pray that God will send someone that I can be an “Elizabeth” to. Thank you for your post and for being real!
God Bless
Nancy
Oh Nancy, I am so sorry for your loss. God is close to the brokenhearted…so very thankful for that promise. Praying for you as trust Jesus for your Elizabeth <3
My mom is my Elizabeth. She is always there with wisdom, love, and courage and her love for the Lord is amazing. What an encouragement to those around her.
Kim is my Elizabeth! Thankful for 15 years growing out friendship and deepening our walks with God! Praying for one another and being strengthened in our faith.
My Elizabeth is my sister in law, Stephanie. She is the most positive person I know. My brother in law, her husband, is in Hospice Care and I just don’t know how she stays focused and trusting in God in this sad time. She is such a believer and trusted God in every situation.
An Elizabeth in my life is my best friend Tracy. Just last night I could process some things with her with no judgment but all encouragement! So thankful the God crossed our paths and He is the center of our relationship.
I don’t really have an Elizabeth, but would love to have one.
Hello Joanne,
I am sorry you don’t have an Elizabeth. Lord Jesus, I lift up Joanne to you right now and ask for you to bring her a friend who first of all, knows and loves You with all her heart, soul, mind, and strength. A friend who will share, encourage, correct, and always point to You. Where transparency and vulnerability are freely given and where you grace and truth reigns. In Jesus’ name…amen
I would say my closest “Elizabeth”s are my Mom and my sister. They are who I call when I need to vent or need some encouragement. This Bible looks so beautiful, and I would greatly enjoy using it for devotions this year 🙂
My ‘Elizabeth’ is my friend Lana. Whenever I am going through a trying time, I schedule a night to spend with her. She is so Spirit-filled. She prays with me, shares godly wisdom with me and I leave her home refreshed, renewed and full of God’s peace.
What a reflecting article. I have a best friend who I hope to become an Elizabeth in my life. She is new in her faith and often struggles with being the Christian friend I need in my life. I know God is calling me to hold on to her and continue being the friend that will encourage her on her Journey, and be the light in her struggle with darkness. I already have a journaling bible, but if I win I would give it to my friend. This may be that seed that grows into something beautiful in her life.
My Mom and my OBS sisters are my Elizabeth. I am able to share anything on my heart. I know I can confide in them and they will not share that information and I know they are not judging me. They offer so much support, love and encouragement.
I’ve been having internet trouble this morning, so my comment may be a duplicate. : )
I’ve had several Elizabeth’s in my Christian life. The first was an older lady that mentored me when I was a new babe in Christ. I’m certain she was instrumental in my foundation and I am forever grateful for Peggy. Right now, I have a lady at church that is close to my age, we bounce things off of each other, and read books at the same time to discuss our thoughts.
My Elizabeth is my sister Karen. She is always there for me to pray together, cry together, and there just to listen and I for her. God is so good to have given her to me….
I am blessed to have two Elizabeth’s in my life and I and so thankful for them both!! They are my sisters Nikki and Jennifer!! Thank you for sharing this today, I really needed the encouragement!
My friend Judy is caring and a encourger
So beautiful, true and a great reminder of just how faithful the Lord is even in our relationships – He cares about the people in our lives. I have been blessed with many Elizabeth’s in my life — and it’s been amazing to see how God has raised up different relationships for different season throughout my life. My two best Elizabeth’s are Jenn and Darah! Love them tons.
My “Elizabeth” is my dear sister in Christ, Janna. I don’t have any siblings, but the Lord saw fit to give me a sister through marriage. She has been instrumental in my growth and walk with Christ.
My best friend Traci is my Elizabeth and our friendship was God-ordained and happened in His perfect timing but when neither of us were open to a deep connection.
God has always given me an Elizabeth in my life and I am so very grateful for them. We are truly blessed to have Elizasbeths in our lives for wisdom & discernment! I love my Elizabeth, her name is Tommye.
I haven’t had an “Elizabeth” in my life for a long time. Praying for God to bring one into my life that lives in the same area.
I have several “Elizabeth’s” in my life but 3 stand out the most. I have 3 friends that I have been praying with for more than 10 years. We pray together, for each other, lift each other up and keep pointing each other to the One who holds our lives in His hands. So thankful for you Bonnie, Deb and Leslie!!
I also have had a few Elizabeths in my life–one is my mom. She is a prayer warrior and I know she is interceding for me all the time. She especially prays when I am speaking at a retreat. I can’t tell you how much I value that!!
My other Elizabeth has passed away but she was an older woman in church whom I asked to be a mentor. She was someone who didn’t smother, but knew just the right measure of encouragement.
I also hope I can be an Elizabeth someday.
My Elizabeth is my dear friend Vashti. Rarely does a friendship such as this happen; when two single mothers can live together and help each other parent, share a kitchen, a bathroom and faith. We have traveled together through infidelity in partners, death, incarceration of a child, addictions, sorrow, joys, birth, rebellion and worked with each other on a path back to God. We even stopped smoking together! What an incredible blessing, and the relationship between Mary and Elizabeth must have been this sweet and wonderful. God is magnificent!
What a great thing for me to think about! I think I have different Elizabeth’s for different needs and reasons. I learn so much from the ladies I work closely with in Online Bible Studies. My friend, Laurie, has been with me through lots but we live far from each other now. She has always been my spiritual sister.
My Elizabeth is my sister Ashley. Growing up we fought like sisters close in age do. But as adults we are the best friends. Our journeys have been so different in life but one thing the same. We are always with each other, for each other and cheering each other on. I am beyond grateful for her! ❤️
I have THREE precious Elizabeths in my life who go by the names: Ann, Betty, and Darlene! All 3 inspire, support and love me unconditionally and I am so thankful to God for placing them close to me.
Thank you for this opportunity. I have loved this Bible for about 6 months and have not had the funds to purchase.
May God bless your 2016.
I have three people who fill the role of Elizabeth in my life. All three are godly women whom I have known for many years. Kristyn, Noelle, and Christine. At any time I can call any one of them for support and wisdom.
I’m abundantly blessed that I have encountered several “Elizabeths” in my life. God has been so generous and provided exactly who I needed when I needed it the most. For the past 10 yrs, my primary Elizabeth has been a sweet Jesus lovin’ girl named Nichole. She first and foremost brought me closer to Jesus, and has prayed me along a difficult journey, one that is not over yet. She , so much like Elizabeth, has had her own very real and painful struggles, but through it all, she remains steadfast in her faith and in her generosity of prayer, friendship, and encouragement!
Thank you for a beautiful post reminding us to stick together, love and pray for one another deeply, and be grateful for our godly friendships.
God blessed me with an Elizabeth…she passed away in October and her husband six days later…It was a sad time but since then God has shown me how blessed I am to have my friend Dale in my life. SHE listens and shares God’s word everyday. We are going to a Bible Journaling class at our local Lifeway on Jan 12th.
This is awesome for two reasons 🙂 First ….just a few moments ago my “Elizabeth” sent me her blog post that was very encouraging. We became friends years ago working together and I gave her a Bible with her name inscribed on it…..she has come to love and serve God…he is everything to her and has written several books one being her testimony. I had not know hidden issues in her life but God did and used me to reach out to her through His word. One of the c@@lest parts of all this is that SHE is exactly the encouraging sister in Christ that I need and so God used me to shower her with His love and uses her to keep me uplifted… now the second awesomeness of this post is the chance to win a journaling Bible….as a creative girl who does scrapbooking…journaling has sparked my interest. I would be thanking God for days on end if I win…:)
Good luck girls and as always… God bless you each and every day ♥
I have two sweet older women who are my friends and an aunt I am so grateful for! I also have a couple other friends who really speak life into my life.
Glory to God!
My friend Lashunta Hoover is my Elizabeth were the same age, she’s just the first person and friend I’ve ever been able to rely on she has been here for me through some of the most rewarding and heartbreaking times in my life she prays for me! And my grandmother used to always say I pray for you because I love you, and I just know that she loves me and I love her I count Lashunta among one of by greatest blessings.
I have 2 Elizabeth’s. My organanized, straightforward, honest, question asking Dearest Friend, Deb. I’ll always get an honest answer from her and she’s gentle enough to know how to give me the tough answers with kindness & love. Sonya is my heart. She & I can tell the hard tales of motherhood to one another w/ no judgment & we encourage each other and we share some of the hardest moments moments we experience.
My dear friend, Michele, is my “Elizabeth”. We’ve been friends for about 14 years now and we even were pregnant with our sons at the same time 🙂 Our families have been through lots of life’s ups and downs together and we’ve always had each others backs. It is such a blessing to have a good, Godly friend!
I have a daughter named Elizabeth, but I really don’t have an “Elizabeth” friend…
And yes what friends Mary and Elizabeth must have been…
I have lovely ladies who I do Bible study with and others who are great role models in the Christian walk. However, I don’t feel like I have an “Elizabeth” that I can run to and share life with.
My Elizabeth” would be Lyn. We both have severe cases of Lyme disease and I could have never made it through the darkest of days and unending nights filled with pain without her love, prayers, comfort and encouragement. She’s also a tad older than myself, so she gives me awesome wife and “mommy” advice. I ask no tribe entered in the giveaway today, but for prayers for Lyn. She has been in the hospital for 10 days as her heart is giving out on her. She told me today that she won’t give up on the fight of life yet, but is ready to go HOME. She is only 61 y/o. Thank you.
Oh Moriah…I am so sorry to hear about your sweet friend, Lyn. My heart aches for yours. I am praying in the sweet, gentle, and powerful name of Jesus Christ for you both. What a blessing to have a friend like Lyn <3
Lovingly in Christ,
Melissa Longval
This speaks to me right where I am at this moment. I adore my Elizabeth friends and am so thankful for those women who point me to Jesus. I love How God has blessed me.
Oh Melissa you are such a blessing girlfriend!
For many years I had an Elizabeth in my life. One who didn’t see my flaws but always saw not only what God saw but what I couldn’t see. That is my bff Jennifer. She is now doing God’s work in the South Pacific and though I miss her terribly, I hold close to my heart all she has taught me. Now it’s my turn to be an Elizabeth for other women, that is where God has me now and I am truly blessed and honored that God would choose such an imperfect person as myself.
Thanks again for this Melissa! Beautiful!
Thank you sweet Sharon for your amazing leadership and encouragement. You have such a gift of seeing people. Love you!!!
My grandmother was my “Elizabeth”. She always followed the Lord and had wise words of advice for us. She passed away in August. I miss that wise woman.
I have been blessed with different “Elizabeths” for different seasons. My friend Linda, my youth leader, Becky, then as I married and moved away from home, God gave me two very godly mentors – Sheila & Jeanna, these women, though not in my every day life are my touch stones. I know if I have a prayer need or a scripture to encourage me, all I have to do is ask.
Praying for an “Elizabeth” for my everyday life, but not there yet.
My “Elizabeth ” is an older lady in our last church. She has taught me so much about being a Christian and helped me learn to read and love the Bible.
The Elizabeth in my life is a dear sweet friend of mine , her name is Mayra. She is a woman after God’s heart. She is giving, she has a knack for drawing people together.
The second Elizabeth in my life is a lady that I have only had contact with on Facebook and bible study. Through her leadership I have grown closer to God and if I never meet her in person, she will always hold a special place into heart. I truly believe God placed her in my life becausevHe knew I needed a woman like her. She is truly an awesome lady and her name is Mrlissa Longval.
Thank you Lord for these two ladies. I lift them both up to you , be with through out their life and keep them safe. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Oh Ramona! You made me cry! Thank you so much for your kind words. I am so thankful for you and our friendship! So excited for our next OBS study…?
One of my girlfriends, Kathy, always remembers the things I talk about when I see her. She goes to God with my concerns and then texts me with Scriptures that He gives her to give me. It is so sweet. I love her!
The older I become the more I am able to recognize the ‘Elizabethians’ in my life! It’s easier to appreciate them with more spiritual wisdom bc an Elizabeth friend is beautiful BUT will carry and deliver what Christ wants you to hear. Hard stuff sometimes. A true friend is not afraid of speaking life and truth, even when it’s hard. A good friend to navigate life with when you don’t feel apart of ‘this’ world ❤️ Luckily I get to have Melissa Longval as one of my own here in the flesh in day to day life. Thanks friend!
Oh Ramona! You made me cry! Thank you so much for your kind words. I am so thankful for you and our friendship! So excited for our next OBS study…?
Hey my sweet Jenny! I love you and love our friendship!!!
I have been blessed with a number of Elizabeths at different times in my life, though I do wish I had one to “do life with” at the moment. I know that I will have one come along side me at just the right time. Thank you, Melissa for the beautifully written post and for the giveaway opportunity. I have been drooling over this bible for weeks since first seeing it. It speaks to the artist in me and the new beginning that I hope for this year. You are a blessing to so many!
Sadly, I don’t have an Elizabeth in my life. When I was in the unwed mothers home my house mother was the first woman I ever witnessed pray, and have quiet time. She was an Elizabeth.
My Elizabeth would be my best friend Helen. We have prayed for both our families to know the Lord and struggle through the deaths of both our parents,but thank God all four were saved. She is my prayer warrior and we have seen prayers answered and still waiting on some of our family memebers to know the Lord. She has been my friend for over 35 years and we have had hard things to deal with but through our friendship and our relationship with the Lord he has seen us through. I am very blessed to have her in my life.
The great encourager of my life is my friend, my sister, my Angela. Always there for me, encouraging me to move forward.
I have an “Elizabeth” that I met in college. We hit it off immediately! I also have an “Elizabeth” on my job. It’s amazing how similar our situations are!
Melissa, I enjoyed reading your post!! Thanks for sharing!!
YOU have been my Elizabeth many times before, Melissa! Always there to listen, to encourage and to remind me of His love & faithfulness. I have been blessed with many others recently, as well (Jen, Angie, Kelsey, Kim…). God continues to amaze me. He puts just the right people in front of us. ??❤️
Thank you Alycia! Miss you my friend…let’s do coffee!
A dear friend named Judy, who lives in another state, yet keeps me focused on God. And a local friend named Linda, steadfast in keeping my eyes on Jesus! Love those two Elizabeth’s in my life!
I thought I had an Elizabeth…but now I’m not so sure. I feel like I’m struggling with so many relationships right now…it’s a challenging season I’m going through. As much as I’d like to have an Elizabeth, though, I think maybe God is calling me to BE one to my niece. I pray that I will be up to the challenge!
I have 3 Elizabeth’s in my life. My friends Lyndsie, Alana, & Kim have become a core for me as I dealt with an insanely intense last few years. I have prayed for friends like these for years and i am beyond thankful for them now.
I am blessed with 4 Elizabeth’s in my life & my sister.
Hello Everyone, This is a great study. I would never have thought to study Mary and Elizabeth but I will now. I can only imagine what a great friendship they had. So much to share together. I would say the Elizabeth in my life would be my Pastor’s wife Cindy. I share my heart with her and she is a wonderful teacher.. I have encouraged and sometimes just listened as she needed to share.
I would love this Bible as I have been looking for a good study bible. This sounds like just what I have been looking for. If I don’t win then I shall watch Amazon until they get more in. Thank you for a great message.
God’s Blessings, Pam
Love this! Thanks for sharing. #Write365
My Elizabeth is Mary Payne.
My Elizabeth is my friend Monika. She has continually spoken words of encouragement and blessings to me and has helped me see the Lord’s purpose in so many parts of my life. Monika knows all about my past andhelps me see God’s future and plan.
My friend Allison, is my Elizabeth. I have been fighting a blood clotting illness since 2012. She has kept in touch every single day. I mean not a day that has not gone by that she has not prayed with me. She comes over frequently as I am not able to be out and about. She has been my biggest cheerleader, my safety net for tears, and a prayer partner always pointing me back to Jesus. As my health continued to decline she has continued her faithfulness. She is still the first person I reach out to for my miracles and my challenges. I am so thankful for her. I am so thankful for such a precious relationship that at times words are not even needed. She is moving to a different state come June. When I first found out I was heart broken. Then I remembered an older song from Michael W. Smith and I think the words were “Friends are friends forever, if the Lord is the Lord of them, and a friend will not say never, as the welcome never ends. While it is hard to let you go, in our Father’s hand we know, that a lifetime is not to long to be as friends.” I may not have them exactly right. But it has given me comfort. God allowed our paths to cross and I know we will continue this deep friendship that for me has been a lifesaver. Thank you for letting me share. I may still be sick, but I am truly the most blessed individual ever! Thank you Allison for being there, for being so faithful, and expressing a tangible gift of God’s love for me. Not a day goes by that my heart isn’t just so excited to get to see you. We always have so much to catch up on, even though right now we are only 4 miles away. Soon you will be much further. I am confident that while we are friends here on earth and we have an eternity together in Heaven, we will continue to be close even after you have moved. I love you my sweet friend, my Elizabeth. Thank you for being there for me, loving me and showing me what God’s love can do!
Melissa,
This was so well written! During my darkest moment, you my Elizabeth. I cannot tell you enough how thankful I am for the times you held me and strikes my hair and read the Bi me to me. You breathed Gods promises into my life. I will always remember those moments and cherish them. Wish we lived closer because I could certainly use one of those sessions with you now!
May God continue to use you!
My typing was not so good!
It should say the times you stroked my hair and the read the Bible to me! I love you Melissa!
Oh sweet beautiful Sam…I love you and am so blessed to have walked for a little while with you on your journey of grief. Your life is certainly beauty from ashes, my friend… <3
I would have to say that my Elizabeth is Deb. Though we met in our early adult lives, it’s as if we’ve been friends for our whole lives. She is my go-to gal for everything- the good, the bad and the ugly.. Love her with all my heart, and miss her now that she lives half a world away in the gorgeous state of Hawaii.
I like what you asked “what are you doing while you are waiting?”. Something good to ponder today. I do have one Eliminate in my life, her name is Jennifer. I desire to have more.
Hey Diane,
It is a good question to ponder. Our Elizabeths will help us wait and look to Christ in the waiting. Thanks for writing and I’m praying for more Elizabeths ☺
I have recently met my Elizabeth. I moved to a new town after my husband of 44 years and I parted ways. I believe Jesus sent me here to heal and to meet Theresa. She has also had many struggles in her lifetime and we bonded instantly…like we had known each other for years. We are helping each other with our pain and suffering and drawing closer to God in the process. Another reason our relationship is so special is because we both believe in keeping each others stories to ourselves and not sharing or gossiping. We also have many good times together that have lifted our spirits.
While I am waiting I am giving “Thanks” in all circumstances and doing works of mercy for all the people I can…for I know Jesus has a great plan for me and I want to share His Love!
My mom is one of my Elizabeths. I talk to her about just about everything.
My Elizabeth is Bonnie, a dear friend who has been helping me see Jesus for 30 years. I’m so grateful!
My real-life Elizabeth is actually named Elizabeth! She’s my former mother-in-law, but I just call her Mom. She’s always ready to encourage me and pray with me, and she has been so very good to me, even though I’m no longer married to her son. I want to be like her when I grow up. 🙂
I’m grateful for my two – Katie and Kandace – who I meet with every Wednesday morning for prayer and accountability. God has used them mightily in my life.
My friend, Caryn, is my Elizabeth. Never afraid to speak truth, even when it’s hard, and full of life-giving wisdom.
My Elizabeth is an older single woman who actively encourages me as I struggle gs in my life. She helps be regain perspective.
My “Elizabeth” is Pernilla Scott, my dear friend in Southern California. She reached out to me 17 years ago when we were going to the same church, after she heard I had suffered a miscarriage. We met for lunch at Taco Surf, and cried over our tacos. A deep friendship was born that day.
Pernilla had suffered a miscarriage four or five months prior to mine, so she could totally relate to how I was feeling. However, she was expecting again, and her baby was due on the same due date as the baby that I lost. Because of her friendship and compassion, she shared her pregnancy with me and I was at the hospital the day Daniel was born. Holding that baby brought comfort to my mourning heart and hope for my future of becoming a mommy. Nine months after my miscarriage, I got pregnant again and had a healthy baby girl. Pernilla threw my baby shower, and has always been my role model for mothering . The friendship that was birthed through tears, trials, and suffering has become something so beautiful. She is the one I call when I have a crisis and I need prayer. I am so thankful for my Elizabeth!
I was fortunate to go to a small Christian college that has allowed me to have a core group of ladies with whom I share this type of friendship. However, my friend Kim stands out to me the most. Not only does she pray for me and encourage me in my walk, she lives her faith exactly as Elizabeth did. Through many, many years of infertility and miscarriages, she clung to faith and her love of Christ never allowing herself to become bitter or to question His love. This last fall, she and her husband decided to adopt, and the story of how it came about is a beautiful one. The baby will be born in March. Then, she found out that she is having a baby, too, in July! A true miracle, just as Elizabeth’s child was. To be able to see her faith journey and to have her as a friend is truly one of God’s greatest blessings in my life!
I have “Elizabeth” friends from different seasons I my life. Sophia Threatt in college and still just a life friend from afar and Jackie Gonzales who inspires me and speaks life to me with her uncompromising of His word. Blessings, both.
I have a wonderful best friend that is my “Elizabeth!” What an amazing giveaway!
elizabeth for me most days is my sweet husband and dear fridnd sonja. they always speak to me encouragingly and with truth. they hold me up while i am down or things seem hard . they always tell me godly things that build my inner man up. linda
Thank you for this post Melissa and Nicki. I so needed to hear this. Looking forward to seeing what God has for me this new year especially after a season of heartbreak, disappointment and being in the desert! God Bless you and thank you again <3
Melissa, I LOVE this story of Mary and Elizabeth! I have had several Elizabeth’s in my life like Bible Study leaders or close friends. Right now I am truly enjoying time with my Aunt Jean. She lost her husband and brother (my Dad) within months in 2014. Since then we have a regular Tueaday night date at her house. In comforting one another we have developed a deep friendship. She never had children. She is so wise and I KNOW she has prayed for me my whole life! She is 82 and our time is precious.
Beautifully written.
I haven’t had a specific Elizabeth in my life, however…our God is the God who sees us and hears us. He’s always placed different people in my life at just the right time. I’m thankful for our God who cares so deeply for me, that he would use others to guide and direct and encourage me….just when I need it!
Suck up answer maybe…..BUT Melissa Longval…YOU are an Elizabeth in my life!!! So very thankful for you. ♡
I love you Melissa and am so thankful for you!!! What a blessing you are to me <3
I don’t have an “Elizabeth” in my life. I really wish I did. I have prayed for her, but lately i have had the feeling that maybe I shoudn’t be looking for an “Elizabeth”. Instead perhaps I should become the “Elizabeth” for someone else. <3
What an awesome thing for you Sam!!! I will be praying for you as you step out in faith on this journey with God 🙂 I am so excited to hear how God moves in your life…please keep in touch <3
I have had Elizabeths in my life in the past and cherished those times of fellowship, prayer, weeping and laughing. I have four sisters who have always been wonderful encouragers to me. However, I would say that it’s been several years since I have had an Elizabeth to run to and wait with. And I am thinking that as Sam above said…maybe I should focus on being an Elizabeth for someone else. Thanks Sam for sharing that!
What a beautiful look at this story. I am blessed to have some of these women in my life. A true blessing from God.
I currently don’t have an Elizabeth in this seasons of life. I had a couple but seasons of life have changed and God closed some doors but opened many others. I’m praying for more Elizabeth’s in my life as well and praying for more spiritual growth and guidance this year.
My Elizabeth is my dear friend, Joie. She is a fantastic blessing! We share what God is doing and are constantly amazed! The love of our Heavenly Father is immense!
Very thankful for the “Elizabeth” in my life, Ashleigh. I can go to her with anything and always depend on her for grace, understanding, and truth.
I’ve had the privilege to be blessed with many Elizabeth’s, some have gone on to glory, some have moved away and some, God has brought into my life recently. Currently, my sister Judy and friends, Karla and Betty, are my closest encouragers. It is so good to remember God’s provision and faithfulness in my ‘Elizabeths”!
I am blessed to have a team of Elizabeths in my life. We call our group the “Waffle Girls”. Long story but so wonderful. We text and meet for breakfasts to share and pray together. It’s truly a blessing.
Being in full time ministry with the hubs, it has been a blessing to be able to have a girlfriend in ministry at another church but same town. We get each other and encourage one another in the calling that God has placed on each of our lives.
My Elizabeth is my dear friend Lisa. Our kids were friends before we were, but once we had the chance to get to know one another, our friendship was pretty immediate. She helps keep me grounded and is always there for me. She has cried with me during the bad times and rejoiced with me during the bad times. Even though we don’t see each other anywhere near as much as we’d like, I know I can count on her just like she can count on me.
I don’t have an ‘Elizabeth’ in my life, at this time. It would be wonderful to have someone to share God’s glories! I pray for Help to become stronger in my spiritual life.
Don’t know if I’m too late to enter this or not. My Elizabeth is my friend Charissa. We have been friends since college and I can alway go to her and talk family, life and kids.
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