Know this, marriage is only for this side of Heaven. We are bestowed with the opportunity to experience the ultimate human oneness in marriage while we inhabit the earth. Your marriage will be whatever you allow it to be… There is no marrying in Heaven. So, if this is your choice for here on earth give it your best. Reach for a life of quality! Always trust God to lead you not only in your marriage but in all areas of your life for in Him rests complete understanding and wisdom. In God you can be whole!

Praying together is important as well! Praying without ceasing” all throughout your day keeps you connected to the Lord. It is an intimate personal wireless communication connection with God. This is a cognizant healthy state of mind clarity when you practice being focused upon God. This is how you become whole. Your desire should always be to please God. “Perfect Love casts our fear.” Trusting God is one of the most important things that you can ever learn to do. For God always has our best interest at heart. He is our endless source of love and wisdom. God will never leave nor forsake us! This can and will keep you from being depressed or fearful. “FATHER GOD ALWAYS KNOWS BEST!”

Happiness is a choice, so you both need to decide to make this a mutual goal. There will be highs and lows.  Unhappiness does not have to be the theme of your marriage. So always make love deposits of care, concern, love, respect, romance and thoughtfulness to your marriage. This will help you weather the storms of life. It leaves less room for anxiety and unhappiness to dominant your lives and marriage. Strive and thrive to create a nurturing safe haven. This also helps you to rise above the storms of life.  You cannot change one another. But you can create a healthy atmosphere that fosters change. There is always room for improvement in all of us. “We are forever becoming. We never arrive.” Well that is the case until Christ Jesus comes for us. You can help bring out the better qualities in one another. Or you can bring out the worst in one another. Take note of your personal progress. Work on becoming the “Best You.” Your marriage should always be a priority. Working together will have definite amazing results!

Exercising self-control is a choice. If you are weak in this area. Get right! Rather than tearing one another down all the time build one another up! Chastise one another in love instead to encourage self-improvement. Correction is a part of love. Challenge one another. Do withdraw from nagging. Abandon dysfunctional ways of living. Check yourself! Don’t allow carnality to rule your life.   Uphold healthy boundaries. Self-control is helpful in all areas our lives. Love attracts. So, make it a goal to keep your love alive! Have some good healthy dialogue and let whatever has hindered your marriage to this point go and move forward as partners. Never take one another for granted.

No, you do not go forward in denial. Forgiving does not mean forgetting. You want to remember, and you also want to get over the pain. It means that you have decided to let whatever it is go and move forward not holding the offense against them. The past becomes a reminder of your decision to let go and move on. Or make it a point before you go down that road to minimize making pain a major component in your life and marriage. You make a point to consciously let go of the old offenses and make way for the new awaiting life. This is a lifestyle change for a better future! This is possible when you don’t allow the not so good large or small things of the past to become the present… Each day now becomes a new day for building a better life and marriage. If your marriage is great Hallelujah Thank God!

“LIVE BEFORE AN AUDIENCE OF ONE!”

Welcome embracing all the “Fruit of the Spirit” in your life every day. Life is a precious gift from God. I assure you that in the long run, you will be much happier. Since God has given us all free choice make it a goal to continuously make better choices even if you already do. The spiritual warfare about us is real and continues to want to hinder us sometimes in the slightest ways. When you daily apply and practice godly principles you and your spouse will also benefit greatly. You both can become stronger together. “Iron sharpeneth iron” Come what may, be encouraged! You can do this; because remember happiness is a choice!

 

“But the Fruit of the Spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self Control…” Galatians 5. May they all by God’s marvelous grace manifest, multiply and abound within your lives, homes and your marriage!

May God’s Eternal Everlasting Love begin to flourish and abound between you now and forever!

Embracing the Fruit of the Spirit within your marriage “Self-Control” Part 9 No. 2 of 3

Embracing the Fruit of the Spirit within your marriage “Self-Control”

Part 9

No. 2 of 3

Marriage is a spiritual battle ground in this 21st century. Look around you! Division wants to nest itself within your marriage; so be aware. Have you noticed the frequency in which couples are divorcing? Why is this? Many enter into marriage without first really getting to know this person who they have promised to love and cherish.

Take the time to get to know one another better rather than to simply co-exist. For your marriage to endure it is important to build a strong foundation.

Self-control is a viable component of a strong healthy marriage. There are many forces at work to create havoc within your marriage. One must pray for discernment. It is important that you make your marriage and one another’s well-being an important priority. Self-control when consistently exercised will help both of you enhance and safeguard your marriage. Implementing self-control in all aspects of your life is wise. For it also helps you to have healthy boundaries and set limits. This is what helps us to be mature and responsible. You know when to start and stop, when to do and not to do something or simply when to stop or do nothing at all… By both of you embracing and implementing self-control you are actually better equipped to develop healthy boundaries together that keep your marriage safe and secure. 

Marriage is serious business and is not for immature people. Immaturity is ageless so just because you are getting older does not necessarily mean that you are ready. There are some things you need to consider. God is always available to help us in all areas of our life. Selfishness or either spouse being self-centered will hinder your marriage from growing in a healthy manner. As two uniquely different people you are committing to keep one another’s well-being as a priority. It is hard to be selfish when you are caring and considerate. However, you do still manage to afford one another needed space to grow and flourish. Over time you actually learn a harmonic cadence of being together or whenever working or walking side by side.

Marriage ideally speaking is for one man and one woman who are in one way or another somewhat flawed. This is not to assume negativity exists. But the need for further growth in learning how to be together as you also grow individually. As you come together you both smooth out the rough edges to increase a flow in the relationship. Together you define as well as refine your marriage. In the Lord we are in a continuous mode of being perfected in Him. For it is only in GOD who is our Creator and Maker that we actually can be or become complete! God did not make us to be robots. He has given us free choice. As we embrace and choose His principles He equips and refines us. Together you each learn how to rise above any imperfections.   Marriage is all about teamwork.  You elect to strive and thrive for the perfection that is attainable in a healthy God-centered marriage.    Perfection meaning being complete. 

This is a desirable goal for those who desire to want to mature and grow together and become better individuals working together as a committed team.  It is never too late to start. This also helps us become better individuals. We become better equipped at recognizing different personality traits and behaviors. As well as being sensitive to the needs of those about us. We all are so quite different. You both choose the pathway for your marriage. Keep in mind “ALL have sinned and fallen short of the Glory of GOD…” God has truly given us an excellent flawless example in how He The Father, Son and Holy Spirit all work together as One! As believers we do not or should not allow sin to reign within our lives. Abba Father God is absolutely amazing! We have our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus to call upon 24/7 to help us… This is why we all need HIM as LORD! Therefore, no matter how much we grow in the Lord’s  grace there is always room for improvement as long as He has us on this side of Heaven.

CHRISTIANITY really is a daily lifestyle!

Let’s get busy!

Each day we are to strive for the perfection that can only  be discovered in the Lord.  “GOD IS LOVE!”  It is in HIM you can increasingly become complete. Being perfect in the Lord is not being arrogant. It is learning how to be content in HIM! GOD would not say “Be ye therefore perfect even as your Father which is in Heaven is perfect…”  Matthew 5  If it were not possible God would not tell us otherwise.   It is with the help of the Lord we can become all that He has created us to be and become.  Let’s get busy!

Spiritual Oneness in marriage is actually designed to be a harmonic journey. Love, trust and security are components of a good solid marriage. Yes we can also be on one accord with others. But marriage in Ephesians gives us a really great example of how our marriages should reflect and emulate the Love that GOD has for His Church. This is why it is important to keep GOD in the Center! You are aware that the Lord is Omnipresent, Omniscient & Omnipotent. Therefore, you reverently fear God. So, you not only respect your marriage but the marriages of others as well. Marriage should not be taken lightly. In the spiritual sense “two become one” as they are united and committed in their desire to grow in love. True Love has no end. Remember marriage ordained by GOD is; “HOLY MATRIMONY!”

Always remember and keep in mind what the WORD teaches us.  Each spouse should seek to become perfect in the LORD. It is God Himself who ordained marriage from the very beginning. So, this is not an unattainable goal.  However, it requires dedication, love, patience, and perseverance. This is quite often misunderstood from a carnal perspective. Remember, becoming perfect in the Lord means to become complete in HIM, not flawless. Nor do we use excuses or condone anything that goes against God’s Word. Everything that you will ever need for Life & Living can be discovered in an ever-growing personal intimate relationship with the Lord. We never get to the point that we do not need God. This is why He has given us our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and His precious Holy Spirit and Comforter.

GOD  wants us to be united in HOLY MATRIMONY! 

In of ourselves we will always fall short. But God is able to keep us from falling. HIS Holy Spirit is always present to HELP US.  HE IS THE ULTIMATE COMFORTER. It is our choice to seek God’s will & way. As you begin to really embrace the TRUTH of HIS WORD you can responsively say; “I CAN DO ALL THINGS through CHRIST who STRENGTHENS ME” Philippians 4. It is also our choice to become disciplined and constantly reach for HIS HOLY HELP! It is good to know that God is omnipresent.

In marriage you learn to give up “me-ness for we-ness!”

Self-control helps you to honor your marriage vows. You choose to not let the world and its ever-changing morality influence your commitment to one another. Instead, together you elect to influence the world with God’s principles. You confront issues in love. It is important to not let resentment fester. You embrace your vows and commence to live out your lives working together through any difficulties. You realize that it is mere spiritual warfare designed to pull you away from your Center. All was remember, “GOD IS LOVE!” When God is truly the Center of your marriage, your love blossoms and continuously grows as you learn to soar through life and enjoy the many mountaintop experiences as well. Life can become difficult at times. Yes, there will also be some low times. Without the lows you would not appreciate the highs mountain top moments. God can always bring balance into our lives. Just make it a goal that the lows are few… But together you commit to rise above them. Keep the embers of love flowing… Remember God’s love is eternal for; “GOD IS LOVE!”

The Fruit of the Spirit are essential virtues that have precious intrinsic worth that will solidify your marriage. Know without doubt that; “GOD IS LOVE!” and that His love is eternal. He is also the Creator of marriage. Love is part of the Fruit of HIS SPIRIT. LOVE is truly a priceless GIFT from the LORD. When you both strive to build a healthy living environment that welcomes love, harmony; trust and respect together you really can build a fulfilling, satisfying strong everlasting marriage.

A godly marriage is a covenant agreement known as; HOLY MATRIMONY. 

Part 9
No. 3 0f 3

SEXUAL Problems For Christians Part 5

Part 5

You Can Build A Loving Satisfying Marriage

Sex is a taboo discussion for many. Old wife fables have hindered more than a few marriages.

Abuse, mistreatment, low self esteem and cruel continuing self punishment rather than discipline have left many scarred. Addicted and coeds with self defeating shame you have been left with a cloud hanging over you. This is NOT God’s destiny for you. God does not want you to have an unhappy marriage. Nor does He want you to have ongoing difficult relationships. Remember; GOD WILL; “supply all your needs according to HIS riches in CHRIST JESUS!” As simple as it sounds, You must start believing HIS WORD. For HIS WORD is “quick & powerful!” Which means it is ALIVE!

Now for some interim therapy; Get yourself a pillow, turn on some good Gospel Music and have yourself a good cry. Empty out some of that pain that continues to weigh you down. God knows exactly where you are. You are not alone in this. Allow the Lord to shower you with His Holy Spirit. Accept HIS marvelous Grace and allow HIS mercy to over shadow you. Start anew allowing His Holy Spirit within your inner being.

Don’t have an ongoing pity party that keeps you fixated on what has been. Use the pain, suffering and hurt to rebuild and or strengthen your character. Let this motivate you to change.  Recovery implies you are seeking to regain or replace what has been lost. Embrace godly principles to better guard your heart and accept the cleansing power of His Holy Spirit to make you His “New Creation.” God’s Word is so important. It is  not to just read but to actually bring forth healing & restoration.

GOD IS GOOD!!! GOD IS THE ULTIMATE HEALER!!!

Thank God for HIS HOLY SPIRIT HIS COMFORTER! Yes, there is hope for you and your marriage or future marriage. In the Lord you can find comfort. Make it your goal to seek and discover how to Love God and yourself more.

What God meant to be such a beautiful loving, emotional, physical expressive bonding experience between a husband and wife has become so terribly misunderstood.  Having intercourse is not a time to simply use your spouse.  It is a time to come together as one in a mutual safe satisfying way. Yes, this can be done in a honorable  way.  God does not sanction any and everything. You can be creative  have fun and remain respectful. Don’t think for a moment that He is not aware of what is happening everywhere…

There is a viable remedy. Each couple is different and needs to be sensitive to one another.  Sex is just part of a building a good healthy marriage. It is and enhancement that binds you together.  But it is not what keeps you together…   As husband and wife you must or should  work together harmoniously in all aspects of life.  You can build a healthy loving satisfying, caring understanding  marriage together.  You know why? Because God says so. Things are not always as they appear. Nor is this  a time for eye witnesses. 

The marriage bed in the eyes of God is undefiled.   How few or frequently is the time you come together  is up to you.  There are also times when you will want to abstain  for spiritual purposes.  Our bodies are unique.  You can remain a virtuous woman at all times… So always keep this in mind. Your marriage intimate love making is uniquely designed for you and by you as you come together as one.  At times it is simply a time of expressing “Oneness” or merely closeness.  Study the human anatomy as well if necessary.  Working together to achieve mutual satisfaction without shame is a healthy aspect of a good marriage. It is important to communicate with one another.  There is often unspoken communication, good healthy communication  is not always verbal.  Be in tune  to one another. 

“For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh. The man and his wife were both naked, and they felt not shame.” Genesis 2  God created the first  woman for Adam.  Adam was all alone.  He caused Adam to go into a deep sleep.  The  woman was then made from his rib bone to be at his side. She was created to be His Helpmeet.   Woman came from man.  God brought her to Adam and they both were naked and not ashamed. They were both created as one in Adam. It was not until after they sinned was the woman  even named.   Notice that it was Adam who actually later named her Eve.  Marriage is God’s first institution! 

Do not intrude on the privacy of someone’s marriage. Marriage in the eyes of GOD is sacred!

It is often erroneously thought that people who talk about sex have some underlying problem.   Or sex is dirty.  This should not be. You can talk about sex respectfully like any other subject.  It is important to talk to your children as well about sex yet in an  age appropriate manner.  They should know these days that some places are strictly for elimination of  digested food.   They should know that they can talk to you as their parents about anything…  Your children should always feel safe in your presence even when you correct them. By the way child abuse of any kind is a definite NO NO! Any form of Human Trafficking is an abomination to the LORD!  It is not the talking about sex that is the problem.  You should make them well aware about what God has to say about a husband  and wife coming together…  Many have been given erroneous information that has hindered them more than it has helped…  It is when people misuse or abuse sex  outside the confines of marriage that actually brings much confusion.  

Perils of Adultery

Adultery has serious consequences. It was serious enough that Jesus told the Pharisees that they committed adultery by their very own thoughts!   Many at one time were killed by stoning  for adultery. The Holy Spirit is the Comforter who leads us to all TRUTH! God is not a God of darkness.  Absolutely everything is transparent to Him! There is nothing new under the sun. Please take some time to ponder,  read and meditate on  this passage  of scripture and allow God’s Light to illuminate your mind;

“My son. Keep your father’s commands and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Bind them upon your heart forever; fasten them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you. 

For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the corrections of discipline are the way of life. Keeping you from the immoral woman. From the smooth tongue of the wayward wife. Do not lust in your heart after her beauty or let her captivate you with her eyes, for the prostitute reduces you to a loaf of bread, and the adulteress preys upon your very life.

Can a man scoop fire into his lap without his clothes being burned? Can a man walk on hot coals without his feet being scorched? So is he who sleeps with another man’s wife’ no one who touches her will go unpunished. Men do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy his hunger when he is starving. Yet if he is caught, he must pay sevenfold. Though it costs him all the wealth of his house.

But a man who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself. Blows and disgrace are his lit, and his shame will never be wiped away…” Proverbs 6 NIV.

It is important to keep in mind that we are all different. But the principles for life and living for us all given by GOD in HIS WORD are very beneficial to all of us. Your marriage will be whatever you make it! Your relationships will be whatever you make them. Be selective as to whom you allow to speak into your life… Readily reject anything that is not of God!  God has given us in HIS WORD guidelines to help us in every area of our lives. It is your choice to know HIS WORD for yourself. Don’t allow anyone to pull you away from what you know to be right.

The world says do whatever feels good and follow the majority.   Your are under GRACE! “Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts therefore.  Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin, but yield yourselves unto GOD, as those that  are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto GOD …” Romans 6

Jesus Christ did not die for us to be slaves to sin. He wants to be a part of every area of our lives. HE never ever sinned.  “All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of GOD…”  Romans 3.  CHRIST JESUS overcame sin in the flesh for us. He fulfilled the law which was a mere schoolmaster… This is why we ALL need HIM as SAVIOR & LORD! As you begin to embrace the TRUTH of GOD’S WORD you can discover a “Marvelous Freedom” that yields much discipline as well as  inner peace.  Freedom does not mean that you do as you please when and how you please. Nor does Godly Freedom mean that you become legalistic. You rather seek a balance in all that you do. Your desire to live to please the Lord  will continue to grow as you seek Him. This type of Freedom helps you to yield to the principles of HIS WORD and you become increasingly disciplined and able to exercise self-control! You are not so easily led astray… The Fruit of God’s Spirit continually develops, manifests and multiplies within your daily life and also within your marriage.

You daily seek  or should seek to be led daily by HIS HOLY SPIRIT HIS COMFORTER!

Jesus came for us to live differently. He wants us to be different from the world. The world at large will not get better. He does not want you to be anybody’s puppet or robot. He wants to help each of us/ you to  become the “Best You” led by His Holy Spirit. He will never lead us to do anything that goes against HIS WORD!  Know that many of the ways of this  world have entered amidst God’s Church.   BEWARE! “For THE WHEAT and the tares are growing together…”   

“GOD IS LOVE” There is nothing, no thing, nor place,  or anyone greater than GOD!  Know that we the people are GOD’S CHURCH! In HIM you can discover everything that you will ever need for Life, Love, Daily Living & ETERNAL LIFE!  In order for this to be so;  we must, “Seek ye first the Kingdom of GOD & HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS and everything else will be added unto you…” Matthew 6

Know who you belong to

We serve an Omniscient God. As a believer know that your body is the Temple of GOD! This is what HIS WORD teaches us: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own” I Corinthians 6   Be conscious of how much food  you do or do not put into  your body as well.  Become more conscious of healthier ways to nourish your body.  Be conscious of how you take care of it and what you do to it or what you place in it and where as well. Take care of your Temple.   Exercise self control and moderation.  As you age do so gracefully. Time is precious…  This is one of many reasons why it is important to take time to daily draw closer to the LORD!  Self-control is a by product of The Fruit of His Spirit. I assure you that it is only in HIM that you can discover true “Security & Significance. ”  

It is important to spend time with the LORD in HIS WORD! This way you can better understand when something or someone says or does is from the LORD or not from the LORD!  Holy Matrimony is God’s only  design for Marriage!  Know God and His Word for yourself… For His Word is “A LAMP unto our feet and A LIGHT  unto our path…”  Pray for increased discernment. 

Sharing & Caring!

“Greater is HE that is in you than he that is in the world!” As you submit to the Lord He will or can HELP you in every area of your life. God is greater than any problem that you will ever encounter. God wants to build Christian Character within us daily. He wants us to daily walk in the Light of HIS WORD!  GOD has magnificent miraculous healing power! By His Grace we can be made whole! 

Faithfulness, Grace, Joy, Laughter, Love & Peace comes from the LORD!  We can always and forever trust God and His Word! “…But when the kindness and LOVE of GOD our SAVIOR appeared. HE SAVED us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the HOLY SPIRIT, whom HE POURED OUT GENEROUSLY through JESUS CHRIST OUR SAVIOR, so that, having been JUSTIFIED BY  HIS GRACE, we might BECOME HEIRS having the HOPE of ETERNAL LIFE. This is a TRUSTWORTHY saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who trusted in GOD may be careful to DEVOTE THEMSELVES TO DOING GOOD. These things are EXCELLENT & PROFITABLE for EVERYONE…” Titus 3

TRUST GOD AND DAILY EMBRACE & APPLY HIS WORD TO YOUR LIFE.  ABOVE ALL OTHERS TRUST GOD, FOR HE CAN HEAL  EVERY PART OF YOUR LIFE!  BE BLESSED IN THE LORD!  LIVE EVERYDAY: “TO GOD BE THE GLORY!”

Embracing the Fruit of the Spirit within your marriage “Goodness” Part 6

Embracing the Fruit of the Spirit within your marriage “Goodness”

Did you know that marriage is a sacred, intimate, holy relationship sanctioned by God between a man and a woman? After God created everything and saw that it was good; God saw that the man He had made did not have a helpmeet. The animals, the beasts of the field, the livestock, as well as the birds of the air all had someone to be with… See Genesis 1 for more information.

The first Man & Woman as Husband & Wife

Adam was alone as a man without someone to help him and spend time with on a human level that he could relate to personally.  Actually Adam at this time was still in a perfect, flawless sinless state of being.  Yet, he too needed someone to be by his side. God had compassion upon Adam. This is what He did; “So God caused Adam to fall in a deep sleep; and while he was sleeping, He took one of the man’s ribs and closed up the place with flesh. Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib He had taken out of the man, and brought her to the man.” Genesis 1. It is here that we get a comprehensible picture of God’s original design for marriage. God created marriage out of His goodness and everlasting love! 

Adam and Eve were naked and they were not ashamed. Remember their physical bodies were made and shaped by God. He created them to be joined together as one.   Everything that God made was good. At this time they were perfect for one another.  This is of course was before they sinned and decided to instead disobey God and do their own thing. God gives us all free choice! Adam & Eve is the model template for marriage His way.  He is the original Designer and knows what is best for the man and woman He created. God created marriage as a gift to Adam & Eve.  He created them to experience, physical & emotional “oneness” within marriage.  Marriage is serious business. Your marriage will be whatever you together decide to make it!

Coming together as One

The goal of marriage is to experience the ultimate oneness that is possible between a man and a woman!  Marriage is a Covenant relationship. This is not to be taken lightly. Man and woman’s physical structures are anatomically and emotionally designed to fit together as one.  In the eyes of God there is no shame in coming together as husband & wife. Within the context of marriage they are to learn how to meet one another’s need for mutual physical sexual intercourse within the boundaries of marriage. Reproduction and pleasure are possible which usually involves penetration as their sexual organs are joined together. 

Although sex happens quite often outside of marriage it is not sanctioned by God! Or choosing to live together without a marriage commitment as though you are husband & wife; is still not sanctioned by God.  This is why many call this; “Shacking!”  However, it is your choice.  Know; you are actually choosing to live outside of God’s Will…

Adam and Eve were joined together, as husband and wife and they were not ashamed.   They were considered as one*, because they were created as one. God gave them sacred boundaries to live by. They had no limitations on their ability to flourish and grow until they decided to do their own thing. The good thing about marriage; this is where the man and woman can together build physical and emotional intimacy within a lifetime committed relationship. Although today, many marriages in excess of 55% now result in divorce this is not what God intended. “Haven’t you read in the beginning the Creator made them male and female and said; ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united with his wife, and the two shall become one flesh? So, they are no longer two, but one* Therefore, what God has joined together, let not man separate.” Matthew 19. Marriage between a man and woman in the eyes of God is good!

Bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh

Take some time and look deeper into the WORD! When the LORD made the Man HE also made the Woman. He actually later took the rib bone  out of the Man He created and formed the Woman. This is why she is called “Bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh…”  It is healthy to desire to want to be close to your spouse. This is why it should be a natural desire to be together as one. Not only physically, but spiritually, emotionally and mentally as well.

This is why we anatomically fit together as one because we were made as one from the very beginning.  Think spiritually if you will. Whenever you come together you can experience natural physical oneness.  This is a closeness like no other. After all you both have committed to one another and to God?   Or did you?  This bonds you together in a circle.  This is why you always want to keep God and His principles within the circle of marriage. 

This is why you want to know and understand that there is something deeper happening here than just a pleasurable moment.  You are in fact giving yourself to one another. You are actually bonding… Be very careful who you allow to become a part of you.  As a woman know that you are allowing the man to make a deposit within you.    WOW!  This is why marriage should not be taken lightly. 

There is power in unity when you allow the LORD HIS PLACE within your marriage, heart and home.

This is also why there is so much spiritual warfare to try and undermine GOD’S DESIGN for Man & Woman. There is power in unity.  Marriage is the 1st and only relationship between one man and one woman designed for “HOLY MATRIMONY,” that is honored by GOD!   It is important to always holdfast to your marital commitment.   The world says do as you please when you please and with whomever you please. God gives us the freedom of choice.  He did not make us robots.  We, however, must take responsibility for the choices we make. Choices come with consequences.  The choices that go against what God has said eventually yields division. 

Everything that GOD made was GOOD.  One must learn to think spiritually rather than carnally when it comes to marriage between a man and a woman.  For it is a “Covenant Relationship” sanctioned by God.   Today nothing is sacred to many. They tend to lean toward being carnally minded when it comes to the spiritual union of marriage.  They are lacking in their spiritual understanding in regards to marriage between a man and a woman. The spiritual warfare is designed to pervert and undermine everything GOOD that comes from the LORD!

THE LORD IS AWESOME; “HE IS ABSOLUTELY AWEWONDERUL!

This is why it is so important to read & know GOD’S timeless WORD! As you read HIS LIVING WORD ask HIS HOLY SPIRIT to open up your understanding and reveal to you the  TRUTH! HIS WORD is our necessary essential SPIRITUAL FOOD for our mind, body and souls!

Today in this 21st century many marriages are falling short of God’s design, but this still has not changed His original intentions.  They have gotten off track. God designed marriage to be indissoluble! The pressures of society continue to press upon many to once again; “do their own thing!”  Therefore, their vows become easily abdicated.  Please think long and hard before you commit or break your vow of commitment to your marriage.

There is much spiritual warfare to split apart marriages, to sow discord among spouses and families and disrupt God’s design for life and living. Sad but true, some purposefully come into your life to disrupt harmony and bring division within your family.  This is often the case when they have not resolved their own issues. There are deep spiritual consequences that are not always apparent.  There is a way to reconcile marriages that have gone awry (but that is another whole book in itself.)  So please be sure when you decide to say, “I DO!” If not; it is a good thing to remain single. If you are not sure or have serious doubts!   Wait!!! However, it is your choice to have whatever type of relationship(s) you desire… Yet, always remember there are consequences  for those choices as well.

It is important to spend time with God to better understand His plan for your life.

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, are all wonderful aspects of the Fruit of God’s Spirit! Loyalty, commitment, dedication, monogamy, harmony, trust and integrity are some of the many components of a good healthy “Covenant Marriage” as well. We can experience unity and empowerment within our marriages as we rely on God’s principles for marriage. Marriage is honorable in the eyes of God. When you honor your vows and the marriages of others you honor God!  “Where two or three are gathered together in His Name, He is in the midst…”   Matthew 18 Relying upon our own wisdom and the ways of the world often increases the risk of relinquishing the plan that God has for your lives.

God is faithful! Faithfulness is the next part of the Fruit of God’s Spirit that we will discuss…

See Part 7

Perilous Times and Perilous Men with a “reprobate mind.”.

June 26, 2015 was a historic day indeed. Today we believe the Supreme Court got it wrong in its decision to legalize same sex unions in all 50 states. Everyone has an opinion but God’s word is still true. “Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap” There are certain things God has cursed, and you can’t bless what God has cursed. Nor can you curse what God has blessed!

“God” is love! There is no way to really love someone without God. We (people) are the Temple of the living God, and God will not dwell in an unclean temple, so love cannot proceed from an unclean Temple as well.

It is so very  important to know the Word of God for yourself. It is through the washing of the Word we are cleansed from all unrighteousness.

The Word of God says;

“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!

For of this sort are those who creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Now as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, disapproved concerning the faith; but they will progress no further, for their folly will be manifest to all, as theirs also was.”

(2 Timothy 3)

“And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient” (Romans 1:28)

“They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” (Titus 1:16)

This is not at all about hate . Butit speaks  volumes about what God who is Love  has said.  We believe God’s WORD.  A reprobate mind has finally reached the United States of America Supreme Court. And that’s our “opinion”.  Lord have Mercy & Lord Help us! 

Here’s another opinion about that decision:
http://www.cnn.com/2015/06/26/opinions/connelly-same-sex-marriage-ruling/index.html

Why Marriage God’s Way is Important Part 3

Why Marriage God’s Way is Important

Part 3
God’s abiding Holy Spirit is what helps us to better understand the purpose of life. God, the Most High God has a plan for each of us. God loves us because He is Love! He also wants what is best for each of us. God wants what is best for our marriages.

God would not create something so beautiful as marriage and not give us the know how in order  to make it work.  This is why it is so important to keep Him in the Center. 

When you want a Spouse; Seek GOD first!

Whenever you decide that you want a spouse. You should seek Him first and allow Him to help you better discern a suitable viable spouse that is best suited for you. Someone who is willing to grow with you and is committed to God’s design for marriage. Preferably someone who believes in God like you do. If you have already married someone who is an unbeliever, you should seek the Lord for direction and be prayerful. Expect and prepare for the extra turbulence that is ahead. It will be difficult to find a middle ground of healthy reasoning… Keep in mind marriage was created by God. Marriage when you are unequally yoked presents another whole hosts of problems.

Now that you are married

In the Word you can find instructions on how to help you win your spouse over to the Lord, if he or she is a nonbeliever. “GOD IS LOVE!” You must continue to embrace the principals of God by being a reflection of His love. Allow your spouse to experience God through you. Keep in mind this will not be an easy task. Some days it will be harder than others. I say task because this is a difficult path you have chosen. We live in a spiritual war zone. Life at times will be difficult. A nonbeliever does not usually factor God into problem solving. You as a believer must remain prayerful. Hopefully your desire is to see your loved on “SAVED”

God’s Love lasts throughout Eternity. Jesus Christ is the Door to Heaven. The only way to get to  Heaven is through Jesus Christ. Pray & intercede daily for your unbelieving spouse.

If you are already married to a believer you must both responsibly continue to seek the Lord for direction. Be mindful you both made a lifetime commitment to the Lord for better or worse? Or did you? If you are already married to a non-believer you will need to continuously intercede for your unbelieving spouse who has not committed to the Lord. You married him or her knowing that they do not believe in God. Therefore, you must live out God’s principles before them.  Either way we all need the Lord to be the center of our marriage! Remember marriage is honorable in the eyes of GOD. His Holy Spirit His Comforter helps us to maintain & keep our vows. Inviting the presence of the LORD into your marriage is inclusive of an ongoing successful union. “ALL things are POSSIBLE with GOD!”  

Good communication is necessary in building a strong healthy marriage. 

Praying together keeps both of you as well as your marriage alive and refreshing. It also keeps the Lord in the center of it. Love flourishes when GOD is invited into the midst. For; “GOD IS LOVE!”   If your spouse does not believe you must allow them to see the Love of God through you. Remember you choose this path. It is important to know that the burden of being unequally yoked is mainly upon the spouse that does believe. 

Remember; God is a Way Maker! Life can get very complicated at times. You cannot undo anything that which has been done but you can begin right where you are today moving forward now trusting the Lord and allow Him to lead you. God’s Love lasts through ETERNITY!

We are living in some interesting times.

Today in this 21st century there is much controversy in regard to what should constitute marriage. It is important to know that God’s original design for marriage has not changed! One man and one woman is God’s design for marriage. This is also why it is called “Holy Matrimony!”

The world continues to offer and support many various lifestyles and alternatives that are not sanctioned by the Lord. This is also why we have so much confusion about us as to what is right.

There are so many heinous crimes, broken families, confused minds and mental illnesses. Frequent divorces, spiritual & racial discrimination, racial profiling, systemic racism have extensive rising statistics. There are a number of abusive situations of all sorts. This should not be. Notice the vast number of climactic irregularities, many plagues and pestilences continue to persist, modern day famines and blatant outright immoral behavior. Let’s not forget the notorious Corona virus pestilence & plague. 

There is always HOPE in the LORD!

It is an abnormal norm in this day to see foreign and domestic terrorism that continues to persist and escalate throughout this world. GOOD is called evil & evil good…  Lord Help us! Don’t fear; trust GOD & embrace HIS WORD! It is important to know that He has given us a wealth of wisdom within His Word to help us live healthy well-rounded lives regardless as to what goes on in the world. There are consequences when we choose to go against what He has said not to do.

With the LORD in your life there is always hope! From the beginning of time the Lord has allowed us the freedom to choose. His Word has a multiplicity of examples that we can learn from.

We as believers should desire to have an intimate personal ongoing growing daily relationship with the Lord. He is our Heavenly Father, Creator & Maker! Above GOD is NO other power or principality that can even begin to compare. GOD IS OMNIPOTENT! We should desire to stay connected to Him daily walking steadfastly in the principles of His Word. “PRAY without ceasing” all throughout your day and take praise breaks!”

REPENT!

Readily repenting whenever necessary and allowing Him to continuously conform us to the image of His Son Christ Jesus. God can free us from many of the stresses and strains of life and help us live happier, richer, fulfilling lives. No everything will not always go our way. Yes, we will experience persecution and often be misunderstood but it is well worth it. The world at large is not interested in what God has to say. Remember sin is what separates us from the Lord! When we are separated from the Lord we walk in darkness. Stay connected to the Lord through prayer. Daily allow His Word to be “A Lamp unto your feet and a Light unto your Path.”

Be Encouraged!

We can be encouraged knowing that ultimately God has everything and everyone under His control!   He patiently gives us the choice to choose HIS WAY!  Jesus Christ is the Light of the world. In Him there is no darkness. Everything was spoken into existence through Him and everything consists by Him and for Him.  In Him you can discover why marriage God’s Way is important and learn how to build a committed, fulfilling, loving, lasting, monogamous marriage that is honorable in His sight! “ 

Honor GOD in your Marriage for it is the greatest and first institution that God has created.  In His eyes “the marriage bed is undefiled” for it is “HOLY MATRIMONY!”  It has been designed to experience pure mutually expressed physical & “SPIRTUAL ONENESS!” Keep the embers of love afire. Make a point to be and stay attracted to one another. Commit to keep GOD in the center of your marriage!

What GOD has joined together let not man put asunder.” Truly the LORD WILL or CAN BLESS your marriage with HIS indescribable, Love, Joy, Peace, Strength and so much more! As long as we are on this side of Heaven there is always room for improvement.  Now; Step out on faith and trust God! Truly our Lord is Faithful!  Lord Bless & Keep You both throughout eternity!

Kindle Edition

Why Marriage God’s Way is Important Part 1

Why Marriage God’s Way is Important!

Part 1

There are an endless expansive array of life lessons. We will encounter many upon traveling this remarkable journey during the course of life. If you are a believer getting to better know our Lord, Creator & Maker; “The Most High God” is most important. It is imperative to spend personal time in His Word! It is through His Word we are better able to understand why He has created us. Within His Word we are taught how to better navigate through the seen and unseen spiritual warfare that is designed to take us off course.

A little history how marriage began

Early on in His Word we are taught the origins of mankind and marriage. We can learn much from Adam & Eve who were the first married couple. The Lord created Adam first. He made them as one! “The Lord God formed man out of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. And the Lord planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there He put the man that He had formed.” Genesis 2

The Garden of Eden is where the Lord intended for Adam & Eve to live a well-rounded abundant life. Here in Eden God had provided them within this marvelous lush green haven everything that they would ever need. He told the man Adam to attend the garden. He even told Adam “that from every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat. But of the tree of the knowledge of GOOD & evil thou shalt not eat; for in that day thou eatest thereof thou shalt die. And the Lord God said, it is not good that the man should be alone, I will make him a help meet for him.” Genesis 2

The Lord then provided Adam with a wife. She was created from his very own rib bone that was taken while he was asleep. The Lord brought the woman to Adam. Here we learn about God’s original superlative model for marriage. Did you know it was Adam that named Eve…

One Man + One woman = Marriage God’s Way!

Marriage God’s Way = One Man & One Woman

God has not changed His unique design. From the marital union of Adam and Eve, mankind that we know as the human race was birthed into existence by God. God told them to be fruitful and multiply.

My how things have changed in this 21st century. I realize that the Supreme Court voted against the WORD of GOD! But we who say we are believers have made a commitment to GOD’S WORD. That is why we are called believers.  Know God and His Word you say you believe in for yourself.  He did not make us robots. GOD is gracious and gives us all the freedom to choose. We must pray for discernment so we can better righteously judge what is or is not of the Lord!

First Married Couple

Adam was an extremely highly intelligent man, so much so that he even named all of the animals. He was given dominion over everything that the Lord had created. In Adam’s original state he was innocent, sinless and created in the image of God. The Lord spoke to Adam directly. There are numerous references within the Word that confirms the origins of marriage between a man & woman. Adam is the earth forefather of the human race. Eve was actually named by her husband Adam, but this was only after she was seduced by the serpent. Before she and Adam were known as one and the same.

Eve was deceived and listened to the devil who was in the form of a serpent, instead of obeying God. Adam named her Eve because she was now to become the mother of all the living. Before she sinned GOD brought forth life peacefully from Adam. Now she would bear children in pain. She willfully chose to eat the forbidden fruit when God had adamantly told Adam that they were not supposed to do so. Eve then convinced Adam to do the same. Adam should not have listened.

Adam knew better. Because of their disobedience, sin now enters their lives. They no longer feel welcomed in their God given wonderful flourishing Garden of Eden as their glorious habitat and their sin now separates them from God. Therefore, they hide and become ashamed for the very first time. They then hide in the trees from God who had given them absolutely everything they needed! Adam & Eve hear the sound of the Voice of The Lord while He was walking in the garden. Adam and Eve were then banished from the Garden of Eden.

Listen to GOD rather than to this world

Today we can learn much from this lesson. It is important to know the Word of God for yourself. God knows what is best for all of us. Eve should have ignored the serpent and held fast to the Lord’s command. We must hold fast to our marriage vows. Marriage is not an idea it is a genuine Covenant relationship. We should always listen to God rather than to the world. Invite God into the center of your marriage. 

A good marriage does not yield disrespect nor violence. When we honor our marriage vows we honor God. Faithfulness, love, loyalty, respect, transparency and trust are definite components of a great marriage. Keep God as the Center of your marriage.  This is why it is so very important to not take marriage lightly. Be wise! Think, think and think some more before you commit to marry someone… Ask the hard questions before you say “I DO!” We do not have to repeat the past. We can learn an invaluable lesson from Adam and Eve.  Daily seek to always improve your future.  Enjoy your life together.  Daily embrace 

God’s principles.  Comfort and encourage one another whenever life throws you a curve. Know that marriage is only for this side of Heaven.  For we HIS CHURCH are the BRIDE of CHRIST JESUS!  So, know when you honor your “Own” husband or your “Own” wife you honor God. Always encourage one another to embrace the Will & Way of God! Marriage is honorable in the eyes of GOD! 

GOD  truly is The Great “I AM” and there is no other above HIM. When you truly believe God is Omnipresent you live and think differently.  HE is A GOD of order and we so need HIS WORD & HIS HOLY SPIRIT to guide us in the path of righteousness.

THANK YOU LORD FOR YOUR MARVELOUS OMNIPRESENCE!

Part 2

Kindle Edition

Standing “UP” For Christian Marriage

God gave us healthy Christian marriage boundaries in which one man and one woman should live together.. Marriage is still ordained by God. As the Originator and Creator of life God designed marriage to be a monogamous relationship between a man and a woman. For the last couple of years I have been journaling about the significance of a committed CHRISTIAN MARRIAGE!

Many Christian leaders and congregants have fallen prey to infidelity and adultery. Sex practiced outside the confines of marriage is rampart in the Churches as well as in the world. LORD Help us! I have observed how this has resulted in a real breakdown in the overall quality of relational dynamics in many marriages. Over the last couple of decades the significance of marriage has been slowly watered down. This has allowed strange and disturbing beliefs about marriage to come to the forefront. There has been a steady but sure deliberate attempt to redefine marriage. There has been a successful evolutionary transition to blur the once clearly defined lines of marriage and minimalize the need to reinforce its healthy boundaries. Allowing its boundaries to become grayed and frayed by encouraging open marriages, unisex dress, the acceptance of male to male and female to female relationships and gender choice lifestyles.

Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was born of the virgin Mary, lived a sinless life committed to the ways of our Father, was crucified, died and was buried. But that was not the end. He arose with all power! When He ascended to heaven He left us His Holy Spirit, His Comforter to come and reside within us. To help us live victoriously over sin. Sin is what separates us from God. God knows us inside and out. He knew us before we were even formed in our Mother’s wound. He knows what is best for us. He could have made us robots and forced us to be a certain way. But because of His graciousness and His mercy He allowed us free choice. He gave us healthy boundaries because HE knew not everyone at all times would adhere to His will and His way. His Holy Spirit is readily available to help us make proper life choices that please Him. For a man and woman desiring to live together marriage is His way. Galatians 1 tells us that Jesus Christ gave Himself; “for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be glory forever and ever…”

It is becoming increasingly clear that the world in which we live wants to ensnare and entrap the children of God. To offer any and every smorgasbord or appetizer that the flesh desires and present it as an alternative way to live. I encourage you to really take some time to “Be still and know” to take a personal self evaluation. To deeply gaze internally where no one but GOD sees and examine where you are spiritually. Not in respect to someone else but to see if you really are growing spiritually. Is the Fruit of His Spirit apparent in your life? Not just on a surface level for others to see. I mean are you really walking closely with the Lord? Be honest with yourself because God already knows! If you truly are you can expect some type of persecution. This is why it is so very important that you know the WORD of God for yourself. So you can distinguish, recognize and discern when something is not of God.

Many have abandoned the Faith and now embrace a liberality that is not God sanctioned. The Gospel of Jesus Christ has been evaded by encouraging the acceptance of perverted lifestyles that are sanctioned and practiced by many Christians. Perverted meaning to change what was once considered unnatural or abnormal to normal. PLEASE slowly but surely read and ponder on this passage of GOD’S WORD expressed in Romans 1 “Therefore GOD gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the TRUTH OF God for a lie, and worshipped and served created things rather than the Creator – who is forever praised, Amen. Because of this GOD gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged NATURAL RELATIONS for unnatural ones. In the same way the men abandoned NATURAL RELATIONS with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion…” What or who do you believe?

Marriage how God designed it is becoming increasingly unpopular! This is why it is so important to STAND UP for Christian Marriage! Paul vehemently expounds on the necessity to not “trying to win the approval of men.” Paul constantly throughout the Scriptures rebukes the Church to stand on God’s principles.Paul knew that by taking this very unpopular stance some would attempt to negate his credibility. He knew that they lay in wait to discredit him. But he also knew that God knew the TRUTH!

There is no spiritual value whatsoever in using the Scriptures to justify something that God has not ordained nor sanctioned. Slowly but surely many continue to allow the healthy boundaries that God designed for marriage to be treaded upon by the unacceptable desires of the flesh. This does not have to be! Allowing the sanctity of MARRIAGE to be reduced to a relationship between same sexual partners who want to justify a relationship contingent on their personal sexual preferences. LORD HELP US! Why not simply call it something else? Why redefine the definition of marriage. Why take something that was meant to be HOLY MATRIMONY and make it totally UNHOLY.

Many marriages have gone shipwrecked. The fulfillment of the flesh has taken the forefront and many will do whatever is necessary to fulfill the desires of the flesh. Many Christians are evasive and negligent at discussing sex openly in a healthy manner, although we know that sex outside of marriage is widely practiced within the Church. Many relational issues are skirted and the financial concerns have in many cases become the dominant priority. Divorce, adultery, infidelity, promiscuity, pornography, living together, same sex relationships are on the rise. Pandora’s Box has lost its lid and just about every and anything goes. Family values for Christians are continually laid aside. Relinquishing and abandoning the principles that God originally intended. In many instances many of us who have been charged to proclaim and live out the Word of God have sat on the fence and allowed any and everything as acceptable and hidden it under the trendy term “unconditional love”. “GOD is LOVE”. Study I Corinthians 13 here you will find a description of what HIS LOVE really entails. Self Control is a part of His Fruit!

God’s Holy Spirit was intended to give us the ability to overcome sin in the flesh and live out our lives to please Him. Today you can find a support group for just about anything you want to help you find some comfort to indulging the weaknesses of the flesh. It’s sad to say but true; it’s as though for many going to worship has merely become a social club. Just join, pay your 10%, do as told and you can do as you please, acceptance, no problem. Many just go to Church then go right back home to live very worldly lifestyles. LORD HELP US! Jesus dying on the Cross paved us a WAY TO THE FATHER! Grace and peace is acquired through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We the Church, His Church is supposed to be His Bride.

We are also called as Believers! Do you believe the Word of God? Do you believe in Marriage? What do you really believe in, or do you even know? God wants us to surrender every aspect of our lives over to Him. When you do, just know that there is a vehement attack lodged to discredit the testimony of faithful believers who have sincerely committed to the “Narrow Road” lifestyle. HALLELUJAH anyhow! It goes much farther than singing, shouting, talking and preaching about it. We must make a sincere effort to live out our lives pleasing God daily. The CHURCH IS THE BODY OF CHRIST! Think about this for a moment or should I say for a while. This is really deep stuff!

The enemy has really pulled out all stops to deceive, distract, camouflage and get a stronghold on the people of God. God’s standards have been compromised and the ways of the world have been embraced. This is what I mean when I say that the “world is now within God’s CHURCH.” In man’s unquenchable thirst for power, bigger sanctuaries, larger congregations and wanting to control others, there has been a huge shift in spiritual priorities!

Many have subscribed to undercover manipulation, worldly ways means and methods and allowed them inside of God’s House of Worship. All too often just to gain a position. The most important position spiritually is your position in Christ! God knows the posture of our hearts. God has given us guidelines to live by as Christians. Marriage is one of those guidelines.

There is but one CHURCH and that is the one that Jesus is coming back for! Did not God say “BUT Seek ye first HIS kingdom and HIS righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well…” What does this mean that we are to seek HIM first for EVERYTHING? What is anything anyway without Him? According to His Word when we “seek Him first” something will happen. This means that we should seek to do things His way. Marriage is His way for the believer to live together as man and wife. We cannot change what has been done. But stop right where you are and see where you are? What and who do you support? Who do you really live for? God’s way or man’s way? Be honest with yourself because God already knows!

We must pray for our young people. The world has any and everything to offer them except Jesus! “Jesus is the WAY the TRUTH and the life!” Think about it; They are now encouraged to “dress down” for Jesus and “dress up” for prom? God has given us His Holy Spirit to lead guide and protect us. Have you really thought about what eternal life means? It all does not happen on this side of heaven. But while we are “still here” we need to get busy living to please Our Heavenly Father. Proverbs 22 tells us to “Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.” He did not say may? He said won’t depart!If you do not stand for something you will fall for anything. ALL God’s Word is true! He does know what is best. His inheritance according to I Peter 1 “can never perish, spoil or fade-kept in HEAVEN for you, who through FAITH are shielded by God’s power…”

Where is your FAITH? WITHOUT FAITH IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO PLEASE HIM! For Christ sake we will suffer in this world. Trials are a part of His refining process. They yield and teach us patience. There is no greater gift that you can give your children as a model of a committed monogamous Christian marriage! God wants us to follow His moral standards. “As obedient children, do not conform to evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. BUT just as HE who has called you HOLY, so be HOLY in all you do; for it is written; “BE YE HOLY BECAUSE I AM HOLY.” Being HOLY means to be set aside for His purpose. Not to blend in for the sake of acceptance. Hallelujah! His unspeakable joy is available! God’s plan for mankind was set in motion way back in the beginning. We who claim to be Christians need to really begin to live as though we really believe that Jesus is coming back! We really do need to consult embrace and support His view for marriage. Don’t give way to anyone’s false teaching. It is never too late to start. Please begin to spend some quality time getting to know the Lord through His WORD. “For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the GOSPEL OF GOD!”

MARRIAGE = ONE MAN AND ONE WOMAN = GOD’S WAY = HOLY MATRIMONY!

Marriage: A Covenant Agreement

Our Marriage

Marriage is one of the greatest relationship commitments that a man and a woman can have. It is an agreement to Love, Honor, Trust and Respect your spouse for life! Marriage is also a covenant agreement not only between a man and a woman but it is an agreement with God. You both together pledge and make vows that should always be honored within your marriage…

Your Wedding Vows

If you are already married reflect back for a moment on your Wedding Vows. What did you pledge to one another? Those vows are so much more than words. So if you have not married and are planning on getting married really think about what you are agreeing or pledging to do! If you have been married before really think things through because you have been here before! You are entering into a contract not only of the letter but of the heart as well as legally.

Marriage & Divorce

If you are not married get wise counsel before you enter into marriage. In this 21st century more than 55% of marriages are ending in divorce. This should not be. Many enter into marriage not really intending to keep their vows. There are also many who are ignorant of what it really is all about … Too often there are many emotional issues that have not been properly addressed and they eventually begin to weigh the marriage down.

Marriage has its mountaintops as well as valley experiences.  However, working togetther you can together make you vally experiences short and few.  It is important to know no matter how much you know about your fiancé there is so much more to learn. Marriage is a place where both spouses can grow as individuals as well as together. You want to make sure that you are willing to go through the valley with your spouse as well as share in the Joys & Celebrations. Know this or at least discuss it before you are married!

building a Strong Foundation Together

Your marriage is or will be as strong as the foundation that you build it upon. God is the Creator of marriage. “But for Adam no suitable helper was found. So the LORD GOD cause the man to fall into a deep sleep; and while he as sleeping, He took one of the man’s rib and closed up the place with flesh. Then the Lord mad a woman from the rib He had taken out of the man, and He brought her to the man.” Genesis 2.

This is such a beautiful passage of Scripture.  It merits  some serious, loving thought provoking  discussion between you two. The man and woman was a precious gift from God to one another.

Adam no longer had to be alone without a companion. Listen closely to what he says: “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman.’ For she was taken out of man.” For this reason a man will leave his father and his mother and be united with his wife, and they shall become one flesh. The man and the woman where naked, and they felt no shame.” Genesis 2. This is also why it is so important to keep God and His principles as the center of your marriage!

Nurture your marriage

If you are already married make it a point to rekindle the passion and dedication that was apparent when you first came together. If you have allowed time, things and people to allow you to drift apart renew your commitment to one another. You can’t change what has happened but you can build a better future right now. What if we are not on the same page? Then it is time to have a serious discussion and make some plans for your path forward!

Life is precious and you can’t get time back. So you really do not want to spend the majority of the time being uncertain and unhappy! You cannot change your spouse but you can have an intervention and confront what has or has not been happening! Remember speak the TRUTH in Love!

If you have kept your commitment and your marriage is flourishing then help, support and mentor other couples along the way. Those who are married or desire to marry encourage them to keep their marriage vows they have made or will make to one another.  Life often takes on many twists and turns and will at times present some adversity. Let them know some of the joys and sometimes sorrows of marriage. How together they can celebrate the mountaintop experiences of life and build an ongoing loving, growing, principled, faithful, respectful and honorable marriage.

Yes there still be some rain and there will be some tears. But there is nothing like a good rain to make you enjoy the  beautiful sunshine! With the rain comes much growth.  A good marriage brings much contentment and fulfillment. So get busy! Showers of Blessings from above awaits you in many marvelous  This is why it is so very important to know that marriage truly is a covenant agreement.  Rememer to embrace and cherish your vows.  If you have not  revisit them. So keep God as the Center of your marriage. 
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Food For Thought “Before” and “After” You Say I DO!

Food for thought “Before” and “After” you say I DO.

Kindle Edition $2.99

Marriage Still Means The Same Thing to God – No One Has The Right To Redefine Marriage

Our economy has been down and is now rising, gas prices were up and are now going down. The housing market was in a flux and many mortgage companies have folded. The automobile industry, stock market fluctuations, credit card companies as well as many other businesses both large and small have been greatly impacted. Life as we once knew it has changed so drastically over the last few decades. Marriages and family life have been further impacted; there has been a steady trickle down effect. There was a time when marriage was considered a respected solid rock heterosexual relationship between a man and a woman. It was the foundational basis in which onedesired to build a stable, nurturing, healthy family environment. In the eyes of GOD marriage still is and always will be a solid rock institution! However man has attempted to perniciously shatter it somewhat when the state of California decided to okay same sex marriages. THIS IS NOT GOOD!!! But, “Marriage still means the same to God.”

Since we live in a liberal society why not call a union between same sexes just that; alternative or open-end lease relationships or simply “same sex unions”. Why redefine marriage and make it inclusive for a relationship that is based on someone’s sexual preference? No one has the right to redefine marriage. See CNN Article )“Across America Human Rights Commissions have been threatening and attacking Christians and their beliefs.” according to Reality Alert news forum. As well, just recently in Alberta, Canada as well the Human Rights Commission (HRC) has sentenced a pastor…to silence due to comments he made regarding homosexuality. He cannot speak out against homosexuality–either verbally or in writing–for life. He must compensate the professor who filed the complaint $5,000, along with a written apology. This decision will radically further impact our society as we know it. What do you think is next? Marriage which is honored by God is now being reduced (in my opinion) to a civil right. Marriage is a God ordained relationship between one man and one woman, it now is being redefined to satisfy the desires of society. Webster’s Dictionary will have to redefine it’ “Bride & Groom” they will say “party A & party B.” But, “marriage still means the same to God.”

What does this do for future generations? What message does this send to our children? I think confusion! There is a difference. Depending on whatever your sexual preference is you can now marry who ever depending on what state you live in? Or better yet anyone who wants a “same sex union” can just come to California. Please take a moment to ponder this as well! “A homosexual man who has a blog on Sen. Barack Obama’s campaign website is suing two major Christian publishers for violating his constitutional rights and causing emotional pain, because the Bible versions they publish refer to homosexuality as a sin. Bradley LaShawn Fowler, 39, of Canton, Mich., is seeking $60 million from Zondervan and another $10 million from Thomas Nelson Publishing in lawsuits filed in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, the Grand Rapids Press reported. “

What is next? Changing another taboo from abnormal to normal? Perhaps lowering the legal age limit to marry and then the reinstatement of incestuous marriage relationships between close relatives? God forbid! What was unheard of a few decades ago is now the norm. God has established good healthy boundaries for a Christian marriage from the very beginning. It was the misuse of God’s liberal freedom way back when that mankind sought to do what was “right in their own eyes.” The Scriptures records in Genesis 19 the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, a society that was devastated because of their sexual sins. So here we are again. The Bible is so true when it says “nothing is new under the sun”. Same sex relationships are not new. They now just want to impede on the rights of God’s ordained institution of “HOLY MATRIMONY”. This actually puts our religious freedom at risk. Secular beliefs have now begun to merge and infringe on our Christian foundational principles. Think about it marital rights just because of your sexual preference. Does this mean we will have to selectively overlook certain passages of Scripture? Romans 1 tells us God tells us that “They exchanged the Truth for a lie.” Paul is clear in regards to what God regards as sexual impurity. God is clear on His position in regards to marriage! “Marriage still means the same to God.”

What is next? Now that everyone is coming out of the closet. I am not saying this to fuel any “gay or homo phobia” I am saying this because many Christians do not see spiritually what this is doing? There is a seducing spirit in operation here. God gives us the right to choose. As Christians you need to come out of the closet too; but, STAND for GOD & HIS WORD against anything that is not of HIM! You need to come out and openly declare what God has to say about this… Don’t passively listen or read through the Word of God! Since God did create us He knows what is best for us. When we embrace His Word it nourishes your inner spirit. Digest His Word and let it become your daily bread as He intended. Let it be that Living water that He provides that can only quench your spiritual thirst. When we choose Him we choose Jesus Christ as our personal Savior! “His Word is a lamp unto our feet and a Light unto our path.” Does this mean we simply overlook all the passages in regards to marriage? His Comforter comes to reside within us to help us to live to please God! There is absolutely nowhere in the Word of God where this is acceptable. Is not ALL God’s WORD true? Of course it is! God is Omniscient meaning all knowing! He knew then what would be now. II Timothy 3 tells us “ALL SCRIPTURE IS GOD BREATHED and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” “Marriage still means the same to God.

We as Christians must firmly proclaim the Truth. We are becoming an increasing minority as far as upholding God’s design for marriage. I am pro God! God has already set the standards. God is Love. This is why He has establish healthy boundaries for us. We need to tell our children, friends and love ones that we love them. God meant love to be something wholesomely beautiful. Love encompasses a deep sincere concern. We should be concerned enough to say, this is what God has to say about marriage, life and living. God is Love. Don’t allow carnality to pervert God’s love. His love does not sanction nor ordain “same sex unions”, adultery, lesbians, homosexuals, fornication, jealousy, lying, pornography, sowing discord among the brethren, selfish ambition, drunkenness nor any other sins. Please don’t turn your ears away from the Truth! Know God’s Word for yourself! Meditate on His Word. LISTEN with your spiritual ears. I Corinthians says; LOVE is patient, LOVE is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. LOVE does not delight in evil but rejoices in the TRUTH. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. LOVE NEVER FAILS.” When you say that you love somebody, mean it. But first check it out by the one who is LOVE.The last time I checked God did not redefine LOVE; to mean whatever your sexual preference is……… God’s definition of LOVE remains the same regardless of what man does or says. Love is a gift from God. There is much inner peace when you know that the Lord knows your heart! I Peter 1 tells us; Through Him you believe in God, who raised Him from the dead and glorified Him, and so your faith and hope are in God. NOW that you have PURIFIED yourselves by OBEYING the TRUTH so that you have sincere LOVE for your brothers, LOVE one another deeply from the heart. For you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and enduring WORD OF GOD………”

Within God’s Word you will find grace and peace in abundance as you embrace the knowledge of His Truth. His promises are precious. God has created us for a purpose and that purpose has not changed. We are living in times when marital infidelity is being rationalized and compromised. The world is ever changing. But as Christians we must look to His Word for direction. It is our “Life Manual”! God and God alone is Sovereign! God has revealed to us through His Word what He expects of us as His children. God has no grandchildren. Therefore as long as He has us here we are here to learn. He has created us with an innate ability to know what is right from wrong. The Bible also records the consequences of what happens when we do otherwise. Take some time in His Word. “Marriage still means the same to God!” If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior you need to get to know Him intimately and personally. The world in which we live at large does not value what God has to say. So you need more than just second hand information. God knows where each of us is in regards to spiritual growth and development. The wonderful thing about God is “He is not a respecter of persons.” His Holy Spirit is readily available to all who sincerely ask. His Holy Spirit is our Comforter our Teacher and our Guide. God and God alone is Omnipresent. He is right here or there. This means He is everywhere you are.

Today it is becoming increasingly difficult to live in a world that does not respect what God has to say. But, “Marriage still means the same to God.” This is why we who say we are Christians must continuously consult the Lord’s Word. It is important to know that there is much spiritual warfare about us. God does not want us to live in fear. It is also good to know that the battle is not ours it’s the Lord. Ephesians 6 teaches us the significance of spiritual armor. Our position is to stand on His Word. Through Faith we can declare it fearlessly. It is important to know what His Word says when you take a stand. Marriage is important to Him. In the Old Testament Genesis He says, “She shall be called woman, for she was taken out of man. For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united with his wife, and they will become one flesh.” In the New Testament in Mark 10 He says, “But at the beginning of creation God made them male and female. For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. So they are no longer two but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.” God’s principles for marriage have not changed.Search the Scriptures for more information on Christian marriage. Marriage is not the same as “same sex unions”. Finally in Hebrews 13 it states “ Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral………..” “Marriage still means the same to God.”

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