“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help…” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NLT)

In the past, I’ve really struggled with isolation. Ever since my parents divorced and my dad left, I’ve had a hard time trusting anyone. When I was a teenager, I tended to find myself in the wrong crowds. For the longest time, after finding Jesus, I didn’t even trust myself to make friends, afraid that if I chose the wrong crew again, I’d end up back in the old life I so desperately wanted to leave behind.

Thankfully, despite my own trust issues and all of life’s unexpected detours, the Lord sent me some incredible friends when I moved to Nashville. Friends who love Jesus and consistently point me to Him. Friends who are kind and thoughtful. Friends who love to laugh and don’t take themselves too seriously. Friends who bring encouragement and truth. Friends who are loyal and true. I never even knew friendship could be this life-giving.

A few of these friends are featured in my music video for “Left It In The River.” It was the first music video I had ever filmed, and I was nervous about being on camera. Having my friends there immediately put me at ease. In fact, there were times I forgot a camera crew was even in the room. These girls have been such a blessing to me. I think I’ve pursued Jesus even more, thanks to their example and encouragement. I hope you have people around you who make you feel that way.

A strong Christian community is a game-changer for growth and identity and has made all the difference for me. I’ve found friends at church, friends through other friends, and friends who are also making music just like me.

If you don’t have a circle of friends supporting you, encouraging you, and doing life with you, I’d challenge you to pray and ask God to bring just one or two like-minded friends into your life. I think you’ll be amazed at how He answers your prayer.