- Proverbs 27:17

For the past two years I have staffed a church camp as a small group leader. This year I was unsure if I would be able to because of the hardships I had been through and where I stood in my walk with Christ. After a few weeks of praying about it, it became apparent to me that it was God's Will for me to staff again this year.

Over my past three staffing experiences, I have formed lasting relationships with amazing people. These friends are much different than any of my other friends. I don't get to see my camp friends very often, but you better believe we make plans to see each other on special occasions. Making connections with students that either go to your same college, a college across the state, or even a college in a different state is always fun. Camp friends, no matter how different they may be, will always have one thing in common with you, a relationship with Christ. Your friendship isn't based upon what group you're affiliated with or even what school you go to.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 says "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."

Recently I attended one of my camp friend's wedding, where I got to reunite with two more camp friends. Just by supporting this marriage, we were encouraging our friend in his new life with his wife. I hope to be able to support more friends in Christ as they get married to the mate that God has provided for them.

Not only do camp friends provide lasting friendships, but they also provide mutual friend connections. I can't tell you how many conversations have gotten started by "Do you know....?"

My camp friends mean more to me than they could ever know. I know I can count on them if I ever need prayers for anything. I can definitely count on them if I need a laugh! I am thankful that God gave us the opportunity to serve together and form these lasting friendships built on the foundation of Christ.

Happy two years of friendship to my yellow school friends and happy one year of friendship to my orange school fam!

And to my blue, camo, and other friends I just met this year, I am already SO blessed by your friendship!