Follow-up to Caring too much and muzings on God directing my steps

So, my last posting was pretty much enough said however I had to share what happened to me just yesterday because it relates to that too :)

I was on the computer doing my work and felt very tired. I decided to pack it up and take a nap and thought I would take my bible with me get cuddled up in bed and read for a bit before I went to sleep. I packed up my laptop grabbed my bible and made my way upstairs. As I was walking upstairs I had the desire to read 1 Thessalonians. For some strange reason I thought that I should read Collosians instead because I had just finished reading Philippians and that was the next book. So I got in bed and flipped to Collosians the first chapter. For all the trying I did I could not focus on the scripture, having to read each verse over and over only making it as far as verse 5 (all the while thinking about 1 Thessalonians)! I finally decided to flip to 1 Thessalonians. Instantly I was able to read and focus reading the first and second chapter. In that chapter God confirmed to me what I had said in my last posting. I would like to record it hear for all of you to read:

1Thessalonians 2:11-12

And you know that we treated each of you as a father treats his own children. We pleaded with you, encouraged you, and urged you to live your lives in a way that God would consider worth. For He called you to share in His Kingdom and Glory.

And this has special meaning to me (some will know why)

2:17-20

Dear brothers and sisters, after we were separated from you for a little while (though our hearts never left you), we tried very hard to come back because of our intense longing to see you again. We wanted very much to come to you, and I Paul, tried again and again, but Satan prevented us. After all, what givces us hope and joy, and what will be our proud reward and crown as we stand before our Lord Jesus when he returns? It is YOU! (emphasis added) Yes, you are our pride and joy.

I find it interresting that Paul had a close relationship with this church and the people there so much so that the intensity was captured in his emotion for these people. I have such an intensity for a few people. My family and some friends that are very dear. These folks have a very special place in my heart and like Paul I say "though our hearts never left you" and "as a father treats his own children" there are those that I dare say I treat in a motherly way. It is how God has gifted me. You know who you are and I love you children with motherly affection in the most sincere way. Some of you have it a little more rough than the rest of your friends. God has given me a passion for offering you encouragement that He has made you worthwhile, important and essential to those around you. If you don't hear that from anyone else you will hear it from me unashamedly and steadfastly. You are loved by me with the love that God has put in my heart.