Paper beads, covered in prayer

A few weeks ago, a sweet sister in our Sunday School class was approaching a major surgery.  We ladies "circled the wagons", so to speak, and had a prayer time, with food, of course.  Another thing we did was write out our prayers on scrapbook paper which was later made into beads.  We felt like it was a tangible way to remind her of our prayers and support.

 

Here's how we did it: 

On the backside of any paper, write out the prayers and scriptural promises claimed for your intended recipient.  Be sure to photocopy the paper to send with the finished prayer bead jewelry. 

If you use a 12" square paper, you will have 24" of bead length.  Use a paper cutter to cut paper into about 1/2" to 3/4" long triangles.  I always just eyeball the size.  It is handmade, after all.

Use a toothpick and roll the triangle tightly.  Apply a small stream of white glue to the last 4 inches or so.  It will ooze out and you can spread it all over the bead, making it firmer and a little glossy. 

I added a variety of beads to make the finished extra long strand necklace.  It is also lovely just alternating with pearls.  This is a very old craft that appeals to all ages.  Our girl scouts did this back in the day and I have also seen necklaces made by ladies in Africa. 

 

I love the idea of being covered in prayer.  This is just one way to share our love and support.

 

Blessings,

Kelley  



How to be a good friend

First, let me state that the title does not in any way make the assumption that I am an authority on this topic. It only means that it is uppermost in my mind and my heart these days because I so deeply treasure my friendships. I want to be a better friend.


I began to make a list of ways to take care of these relationships and this is what I came up with.


1. Pray for her/him. This a selfless act that will make a difference. Prayers never go unheard.


2. Be honest in the relationship. You must be yourself so that the reactions by your friend are based on truth. If your friend asks for an opinion, respond in truth, not necessarily the easiest.


3. Make time for each other. Stop multitasking and really be present in the conversation.


4. Have adventures together. Be willing to try new things and grow as an individual. This brings fresh air to any relationship.

5. Enjoy simple, everyday things together. Treasure daily activities.

6. Understand that friendships are living and need care. Keep them fed with quality time and effort. Study them to stay in tune to needs and changes.

7. Family, spouses, work associates, school and church aquaintances are all relationships just waiting to be deepened with prayer, caring and time.

Do you have any more ideas that are missing? I am commiting to working on these friendships myself.