Building Blocks of Love

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant. 1 Corinthians 13:4

I love to go to Christian weddings. Typically 1 Corinthians 13 is a chapter the man and woman have chosen to have the minister, priest, or judge read from. It is filled with so many good things. If only the couple will leave the wedding ceremony and make that chapter come alive in their lives on a daily basis and not forget it at the wedding altar. If both parties routinely did what it said, it may put divorce lawyers out of business. Wouldn't that be wonderful?

Love is not about trying to get your own way. Love puts the other person first. So many do this when they are newlyweds but then in some cases complacency sets in. This type of love  is the foundational building block in a solid marriage. Also  life in general takes putting others above yourself. 

Are your building blocks of love solid or in need of repair?  God can help you show this kind of love to those you find hard to love whether married or single.

PRAYER: The word love is often overused or misused.  I want to love with your love Jesus, no matter what. This means putting up with those who I do not agree with and trying to be merciful to all. Give me your strength. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Weeds in Your Garden

But I am not surprised! Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.

2 Corinthians 11:14

Springlike weather has arrived in most parts of the country. On beautiful  days you may have the  urge to mow, plant flowers or a garden,  play in the sprinkler, cookout, hike, fish, canoe, go to a park,  or take a walk.

I have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of our strawberries in my little garden. Unfortunately weeds cropped up that had to be dealt with or if they did not, could overtake and choke the plants. Some weeds look pretty such as dandelions but they are still unwanted.

Sin is like a pretty weed.  It can look pretty but it is down right nasty and no good. Its’ beauty often times can trick you into believing it is okay. Satan has deceived many people into believing lies  and some are even Christians. The latest thing I think about is making the population believe same sex marriage is okay with God, because it is not. The enemy has deceived many well meaning people.  The devil wants to destroy us.

If you are caught in a  jungle of sin that is choking out the truth of the word of God, stop now and pray and ask God to deliver you and set you free.

PRAYER; Jesus I need you every hour. This world needs you. I choose to pull up weeds of sin and pray. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

DON'T LOSE THAT LOVING FEELING

Valentine’s Day is here but why is it necessary to have a secular holiday in order to show love? Love is something that should be ever present especially if you claim to be a believer. 

This holiday puts expectations on some and pressure on others. Some choose to not celebrate and do their own thing later after all why do you need February 14 to say you love someone? Keep being loving the other 364 days as well. Re read 1 Corinthians 13 especially the verse 7 which says '7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.' Stop for a moment and think what that verse is saying.

Can you truly "turn the other cheek" and move on beyond conflict? Can you show unconditional love even when you may not feel like it?A good section of scripture to read in the Bible on married love would be Ephesians Chapter 5. When you have time later today why not get a cup of coffee or tea and sit down and read what that says,particularly verses 25-33 of Chapter 5. 

It does not have to be Valentines Day to express love. Many often say this day is just a day conjured up to sell flowers or candy. Hey guys reading this, flowers are a great idea anytime. There is not a woman alive that would not like them. So today on this "day of love" why not find a person in your path and shine the love of Jesus' on them?

PRAYER: Your love is perfect. Your love is unconditional. Your love knows no ends. That is the kind of love I want.Help me not lose that "loving feeling". In Jesus' name. Amen. 

LOVE WILL KEEP US TOGETHER

 

God's love, not the 1970's era singers "Captain and Tennille's" love is what keeps us together. They sang a catchy song "Love Will Keep Us Together". The true meaning of love, is not something conjured up by Hollywood or the music industry. Love is more than romance, although in a marriage that is extremely important to keep the marriage strong.

Love is selfless. Love is kind. Love thinks of others first. Love is giving. Love is sharing. Love is sacrifice. We can have love for a husband or wife or love for a friend or family member. Love forgives and forgets.

God's love for us is unconditional. In others words, no matter what you do or how you act He is there. As humans we too are to emulate this but sadly many marriages end up in a "rock pile" because God's love by both partners was not followed. Even many friendships falter when one friend is not willing to forgive and forget. Family relationships are fractured or the same reason.

Romans 5:8(NIV) says 'But God demonstrates His own love of us in this: While we were still sinners Christ died for us.'

Imagine that! Dying for others. That indeed is true love demonstrated to the utmost. Now go and make a point to show His love today.

PRAYER: It is my desire to love unconditionally and with a pure heart. The hardest time to love is when someone does not love back. Help me Lord to keep on showing love regardless. In Jesus' name. Amen.

COMMITMENT

What does it mean to be committed? I am not referring to the days when people were "Committed" to a mental institution but the word commitment itself what does it mean and are you are committed person?

Today one of my best friends in Indiana and her spouse, whom she met in college, are celebrating 40 years of Holy matrimony together. As Dave says "Meet Becky my first wife" when he introduces me. I am not saying this to make those who are divorced feel bad because often times there are reasons for divorce such as abuse, neglect, adultery or some reason you had no clue and were blind sided when your spouse dropped the bomb shell on you. God forgives and you can begin anew.

I pray for my son and his wife daily to have a fantastic God filled marriage and do it till death do them part. I believe they will.

Commitment is more than just taking a vow before God to be faithful in sickness and health but it is to be committed to a project also you need to finish. Or to be committed to a friend to follow through on a task you promised to do.

Basically it is responsibility and loyalty to someone. In marriage you put your spouse first or should as you are now a team. Sure you have individual likes and dislikes but you are forged together for life to share life together.

Can you commit to something and follow through? Psalm 37:5(ESV) says 'Commit your way to the Lord , trust in Him and He will act.' Have you ever committed your life to Jesus? Did you feel different? I hope so. Commitment requires time. Are you willing to give time to the Lord to know Him better?

PRAYER: Today Lord I thank you for the ability to be committed. To follow through on a vow or a project. You strengthen me to follow you and to do what I promised. Help me as I seek your face to learn what commitment realy is all about. In Jesus' name. Amen.

BE FRUITFUL AND MULTIPLY

This is a command of God found in Genesis 1:27-28(NIV) which plainly says the following. 'So God created mankind in his own image,  in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”

Marriage is between  a woman and man, and that was God's plan all along. Two men or two women can not "be fruitful and multiply". It is impossible. Today our  world has gone crazy trying to pervert the gospel of Christ to make it okay for those loving the same sex person to be married. Opposing this plan, Christians are called hateful. It is not about hate but it is about what the Bible clearly states. Many fine Christians have even bought into this lie and some of them struggle with same sex attraction as well. 

We need to be on our knees in prayer for the lives of our children. We need to pray seducing  spirits do not hold them captive or lead them astray. The devil is at  work overtime to destroy and pervert the message of Jesus Christ. Lamentations 2:19 (NIV) says 'Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint from hunger at every street corner.'

Turning our backs on God by not opening up and speaking out against things that are contrary to His teaching is wrong. We need to do it in love. Many may oppose you because they have bought into the lie of Satan. Today the culture of America has endorsed and made legal killing babies in the womb and is now attempting to legalize same sex marriage. The more we see it on the news and start getting our minds saturated with the lies of the enemy the more we buy into this false teaching and start thinking "people should get to do what they want" so leave them alone. Let them be happy. 

If you "walk with God" you can not rewrite scriptures to help your "sin" be okay. The word of God never changes. Modern society buzz words are "equality" and "tolerance". Christians who speak up are called hateful. So are we to just roll over and be brainwashed by our society giving no thought to people mocking God? The answer of course is a resounding NO.

I will end with Psalm 1:1-3(NIV) which says 'Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.'

PRAYER: Lord I want to know the truth and I thank you it is found in the uncompromising unchangeable word of God. Help me be gentle in sharing with others who may be believing a lie from Satan. Help me remember to pray, not condemn, those caught up in this lifestyle and being lied to by Satan. In Jesus' name. Amen.

LOVE MEANS NEVER HAVING TO SAY YOUR SORRY....HUH!!

 

This may make a great movie line from the seventies but is has no bearing in real life relationships. If you have hurt somone you love, be it a spouse, girlfriend or boyfriend, or friend you need to admit it and go to the person and restore this relationship. Sometimes people mess up and some people have trouble asking forgiveness and saying they are sorry. If you are the one who has been hurt by someone you are close to, you can choose to dwell on it or you can move on. True, it is not right when someone has done something and will not admit they have hurt you, but to dwell on it only causes a huge divide. Eventually if it happens to be in a marriage relationship you may need counseling for this issue as it can not continue to be buried if there is an underlying cause.

If you know you have hurt someone and you claim to be a Christian ask yourself what would Jesus do? We all know the answer to that. He would admit his mistake and seek to heal the relatioship before it was wounded any more. Many fights in marriages could be avoided if the couples truly prayed together and read their Bibles together and would admit it when they were wrong. The real culprit in all arguments and misunderstandings is the enemy Satan trying to divide and destroy because that is his specialty.

Sometimes you may have hurt a friend and they refuse to want to be your friend anymore. You have to move on. Pray for the person. Try to love them regardless of how they feel about you.

Most all types of relationships could be wonderful and happy and strong if people did not always try to get their own way. If all of us who claim to love Jesus and follow Him would stop each day and pick up that instruction manual, otherwise known as the Bible, there would be much less conflict. If husbands would treat their wives like Christ treated the church, there would be a much lower divorce rate. If people would put the other person first all the time and think of nice things to do, that would help as well. If you are just starting out a new marriage, begin the right way and make it a point to not take each other for granted, ever! Read the instruction manual and read it together. Take time and read Ephesians Chapter 6 and 1 Corinthians 13. Choose to love and choose to forgive.

If you are reading this and some type relationship you are in seems to be a one way battle all you can really do is pray. Keep seeking Christ. Keep reading your Bible. Try to control the urge to fight or yell as then Satan has you right where he wants you . Overcome evil with good it says in Romans 12:21. As hard as it is sometimes when you are hurt you have to throw off anger. Just think of this as spiritual warfare. Satan is the author of lies, deception, hate, confusion and every evil work. God is all about love, peace, forgiveness, kindness, gentleness, mercy, self control and grace. Satan is out to kill, steal, and destroy. We have a choice. We can choose to love and forgive or we can choose to be angry, hateful, vindictive and give Satan more power in our lives.

What is your choice today? Joy, love. peace, forgiveness and moving on or hatred, anger and bitterness? Matthew 5:44(NIV) simply says 'But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.' Now just go and do it with God's strength!

PRAYER:Lord Jesus I know you made me to love and show mercy to others. I know in life people may hurt me but I can choose to fight and be angry or I can choose to let it go and move on. I can choose to harbor hate and anger or choose to be kind to those who may want to mistreat me. It is hard, so I need your strength Lord. I know Lord we are in a battle between God and the devil. Fighting is not a fruit of the holy spirit but love is. I choose to love, regardless. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click on link below for a powerful song to get your weekend started off right.

http://youtu.be/GsjJmk7tdk4

DO LOVE JESUS AND DO HATE SIN

If you happen to have children, no matter what their age, there is a prayer that can be prayed for them. Pray that they love the things Jesus loves and hate the things He hates. Jesus loves the sinner but hates the sin. In this world we have many opportunities to fall into sin and the lusts of the flesh and the pride of life. That is why it is essential that if you claim to know the Lord to stay rooted and grounded in the word of God. Pray this same prayer for yourself saying "Lord help my heart be broken by what breaks yours. Convict me of my sin."

Lately many seem to be writing their own rules for sin. A certain part of the Bible rubs you the wrong way then simply ignore it. For instance in the Bible it clearly states marriage is between one man and one woman and yet many, some even in Christian circles, choose to believe otherwise, and do not seek to learn the truth or be set free if they are caught in Satan's deceptive trap.

Others who claim to love the Lord may see nothing wrong with killing innocent babies in the mother's wombs in the name of "choice". What about the babies choice? Isn't it God's creation you are snuffing out? Killing a baby is not health care or a choice. It is murder!

We are told to not lust yet how many regularly attend movies with half naked women which insight lust? We are to use pure speech but once again the type of entertainment you may regularly choose to attend may take the Lord's name in vain or spew forth cursing like you would never repeat or should not repeat.

The thing is, we can not lead a "double agent" life for the Lord. Is what you are doing Holy? Really truly ask yourself that. Do not be so deceived by the lies Satan throws out that you can not clearly see right from wrong and good from evil. Satan is a master at warping minds and deceiving the masses. Would you be ashamed if the Lord were to walk in on your activity? Think about that because guess what? He is with you all the time. Sin is sin, there is no compromise. But there is forgiveness and redemption. There is a saying 'the ground is level at the foot of the cross' meaning no matter how vile the sin God has not classified them into a "sin scale".

Luke 10:27(NIV) reminds us' Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength and with all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself.' When you love someone you seek to please them and bring joy to them? Does your life bring joy or sorrow to our Lord?

Today if you know you are caught in a trap of deception that Satan has laid out for you stop right now and call out to Jesus. He is there to set you free.

PRAYER: Lord God forgive me for secret sins and those not so secret. Help me to learn to run the race to win and casting off works of darkness. Help me to not think to myself, 'I am not so bad'. Father I choose this day to truly seek to lead a life that pleases you and to not judge others. That is our job. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click on link below for a powerful song of redemption and freedom.
http://youtu.be/-08YZF87OBQ

THE THREE PR's

This devotion is mainly geared for men but it won't hurt women to read it as well. The three PR's are 'Provide, Protect, and Pray'. These are the three main responsibilities for Christian husbands. The men of course are the breadwinner in the home even though the wife may work. Your responsibility is to provide for your family. 1 Timothy 5:8 says "Anyone who does not provide for his relatives and especially for his immediate family, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever."

Next you are to watch over and protect your wife as she is the weaker vessel. Ladies I am not saying you can not take care of yourself, but make your man feel good and let him assume this God given role. Men this does not mean you lord over and boss your wife around and tell her what she can and cannot do because you are not her dad. The women's lib movement started to create men who did not want to lead or were afraid to because of domineering women. In an organization there has to be a final say after discussion usually made by a Company CEO or in the military the General or Admiral. Likewise in a family the man is the final authority. 1 Peter 3:17 says "Husbands in the same way, be considerate as you live with your wives,and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers." There is nothing shameful about letting a man be a man and to care for his wife. Enjoy it ladies! Men, married or single, open that car door.

Thirdly, prayer is  probably the most important yet I am sure there are married men out there who forget to pray daily for their wives in their quiet time if they even bother to have time alone daily with God. Sure a husband and wife may say a standard prayer at meals but how many couples have a quiet time together and let the man be the spiritual head? It is something many women crave for yet do not get to partake in. If you are a lady reading this whose husband does nightly heartfelt prayer and a devotion with you be thankful. Men, if you don't what is stopping you? Ephesians 5:25-27 says to husbands "Husbands love your wives as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. To make her holy by cleansing her with the washing with water through the word.And to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or any other blemish, but holy and blameless."

Ladies if you have a good man but you don't think he is as spiritual as you are, you better zip your lip. Be a loving wife and not what Bible teacher Joyce Meyer refers to as 'Holy Spirit Junior'. It is not our job to change people. It is the Holy Spirit that brings conviction. Some Christian wives may be frustrated as they want this in their marriage but it has not happened. Don't nag just pray.
Men  thinking of possibly marrying that girl of your dreams someday make sure Christ is truly first in your life and hers. I did not say make sure you both are members of a church. You can be in church and not love Jesus with all your heart. Christ should truly be in the center of a good marriage.

PRAYER: Lord I know it is important to really be sold out to you. Help me Lord to concern myself with growing closer to you and keep in an attitude of prayer. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link below for a beautiful song:
http://youtu.be/nCf2PoTuh4Q

COMPLACENCY 101

 Freedoms of all sorts are being threatened in our wonderful nation today. You name the freedom and there is a plot of sorts or talk about the government running it and controlling us. When we sit back in our cushy homes, driving our fancy cars, eating out in nice restaurants, going out to plays and movies, and shopping at the mall it is hard to possibly fathom this could happen. But it can. Think of the Germany of World War 2. Enough said.

 Freedom is a gift from God. Even the freedom to worship God and read our Bibles out in the open is taken for granted I am sad to say. In many nations Christians have to smuggle the word of God in and risk death for saying the name of Jesus. You say, "that can't happen here" oh but it can. Especially those who enjoy the freedom to go to church each week should not be silent. You can speak up in love to your representative and voice your opinion and concern. On some college campuses today Christian clubs are being banned and the students First Amendment rights are being violated. You do not just sit there and expect someone else to call or write the letter. There is a saying "evil happens when good men do nothing."

 Other examples would be trying to get questionable pornographic magazines off the shelves of stores or at least require them to be behind the counter so innocent eyes do not gaze upon the nudity on the cover. Speak up when a hotel chain decides to not carry the Holy Bible which Gideon's places at no charge. Let your voice be heard when unacceptable things are on prime time television. Call a billboard company to protest a inappropriate billboard. I am sure you can think of many more examples.Sad to say many seem to get to the point immorality does not even seem to phase them. Seemingly we are so used to the junk on TV, in magazines, and at the movies that we become hypnotized and desensitized. It is time for all of us to wake up.I do not know if this verse applies or not but I still think it is good. I 'accidentally' came across it in my quiet time. In Isaiah 3:12 it says " O my people! Can't you see what fools your rulers are? Weak as women! Foolish as little children playing king. True leaders? No misleaders! Leading you down the garden path to destruction." Look to the Lord and look to him only.

 The latest buzzword is 'tolerance'. We are supposed to tolerate things that are against our beliefs but yet others seemingly want us to put up with things that go against what the Bible teaches. The latest push to normalize homosexual and lesbian behavior and marriage goes totally against the Bible. Yet this push to accept it and even force some ministers to marry same sex couples or be sued, is afoot. According to my Bible God never intended for two men to get married or two women. Others say" well they love each other so why not?" What is next, normalizing pedophilia? When Christians speak up, those on the opposing side throw around the word 'hate' and claim we hate those engaged in certain lifestyles. There is not hatred but there is immense concern. Keep in mind what Romans 3:23 says and that is " all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory." That  is right, all of us!! We are to show love and grace in all situations. And be careful to think you will never slip and fall so to speak because we are all born with a sin nature.

The point is, do not say getting involved or speaking up is someone elses job. It is sad when people become lethargic in a sense and just coast through life with hardly a care when things are not going that well around them. Many Christians simply go to church and get in their holy social circles and do nothing more. The world around them is in a moral free fall and crumbling yet  it apparently  does not bother them.

Proverbs 14:34 says "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people." The trouble is we have justified sin and not heeded what is in God's word. Where are you at today? Are you concerned about America? Do you spend time in God's word and know the truth? Do you speak up against evils in society? Are you praying for this nation and its' leaders? It is time for all of us to wake up and not be sucked into a immoral cesspool. Satan is having a hey day when evil is so readily accepted and condoned in this nation. It is time for all Christians to do their part.

1 Peter 1:13-16 says "Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober,   set your hope   on the grace to be brought to you   when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.   As obedient   children, do not conform   to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.   But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do;   for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy."

PRAYER: Lord Jesus help me not turn my head and ignore evils in society. Help me speak up in love to combat what is wrong and against your word. Help me not just be a Sunday Christian but to lead a life pleasing to you being Christlike in all I say and do. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Click on link to worship the Lord in song.
http://youtu.be/1ceVSyfNkkk








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HERE COMES THE BRIDE!!

Today I am excited as I become a mother in law to an awesome young lady about 5 p.m. today. Weddings are an exciting time. Much anticipation, many prayers, lots of hopes and dreams for the future. I thought what better subject area on the day of my son's wedding than to write about the marriage vows and marriage in a Christian's life.

Marriage is not just a beautiful bride and wonderful wedding but it is about life together, dying to self, learning to live with another person, and commitment. It is not just the lovey dovey mushy stuff although that is very nice and all couples should work on keeping the 'love fire'  of passion alive and burning brightly. When you get married it is not just about you. You learn to give and take.  You learn patience. You learn to forgive and forget. You learn you do not always have to get the last word. You learn to not be selfish. You learn to listen with your ears and your heart. You learn respect. You learn to help each other.

The honeymoon does not have to end. Staying in God's word as a couple and as an individual is vitally important for within it's pages is much wisdom on living together and being Christlike. The husband needs to take seriously about being the spiritual head of the household and nurture his wife with the word of God. Many couples  recite their vows and the clergyman reads a few Bible verses speaking about lifelong commitment. Those vows taken before God and man need to be taken  seriously. God should not be left at the altar of the wedding ceremony but should be the center of the marriage.

1 Corinthians 13 which is known as the 'love chapter' is often read in weddings. I will excerpt a few key verses now. Verses 4 thru 7 say "Love is patient. Love is kind. It does not envy. It does not boast. It is not proud. 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."  In Ephesians 5:22-33 are found the verses husbands and wives need to read about their responsibilities as a Christian spouse. Take some time and read these few verses. Matthew 19:4-6 says "Haven't you read at the beginning God made them male and female and for this reason He said "A man shall leave his father and his mother and be united to his wife and the two shall become one flesh. So they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together let no man separate."

As my son and my new 'daughter' start their journey through life together I am excited about how God will work in their marriage and in their lives.

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for the beauty of marriage. Not everyone will get married but for those who do let us remember to keep Christ alive in the marriage. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link to enjoy an appropriate song:
http://youtu.be/aZbhrO4IEtI

THREE CORDS

Recently I attended the wedding of a friend's son where a visual was done I had by never before witnessed at a wedding. Three cords were weaved together. The three cords were symbolic of the husband, the wife and Christ. Christ is supposed to be the center of a marriage and the 'glue' of sorts in what holds things together. A Christian husband is to be the spiritual leader of the home but God is first place. A couple should pray together and have devotions together to have them become closer to God. In the illustration the groom held one end of the three cords while the bride braided them into a rope. A great 'word picture' and something that made a great impression on me.

This illustration of the three cords was taken from Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 and it says "Two are better than one,because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone?Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." Think about a rope and how thick it is and almost impossible to cut or tear. It is usually made from 3 cords. 1 cord would break and two would not be very strong. But adding the third one gives much strength and durability. My younger son and his fiancee are both rock climbers and the ropes they use have to be braided good or disaster would result. You have to trust that strong sturdy rope with your life.

In a Christian marriage God gives that  kind of durability. If a couple is reading God's word and follows it, their life as husband and wife will go much smoother. If they pray together, attend church together, perhaps go to  a small group Bible study and have time at home in the word together they will be drawn closer together in the long run. For a marriage to work two should become one, with Christ as the head. If one person in a marriage selfishly tries to get their own way this will cause much anguish in the marriage. Both the man and the woman need to put God first then their spouse for true harmony to exist.

Genesis 2:18-24 in speaking of marriage says "The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.Now the Lord God had formed out of the ground all the wild animals   and all the birds in the sky.   He brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called   each living creature,   that was its name. So the man gave names to all the livestock, the birds in the sky and all the wild animals.But for Adam no suitable helper   was found. So the Lord God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep;   and while he was sleeping, he took one of the man’s ribs and then closed up the place with flesh. Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib  he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man. The man said,“This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh;  he shall be called ‘woman,’ for she was taken out of man.  That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united   to his wife, and they become one flesh."

Marriage between a man and a woman is a very good thing but even more so when God is kept that third strand in the cord and gives 'strength and stability' to the marriage union.

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for the gift of marriage and I thank you for being there with us as we walk through good times and  bad. Help me to always remember to put you first Lord. Forgive me when I do not. In Jesus Name. Amen.

MARRIAGE GOD'S WAY....A GOOD THING!

In the Bible when God created the heavens and the earth he created man from the dust of the earth. Then he took a rib from the man's side and formed woman. He said it was not good for man to be alone. He made a helpmate suitable for Him in the form of woman. He did not create Adam and Steve but Adam and Eve to love each other and have children to populate the earth. After making all His creation He rested on the 7th day and said "It is good!'

Besides marriage being a man and a woman it is about commitment. When a person says "I do" what they are also saying is I will honor and respect you too. Not everyone will get married,  but the fact remains as much as our modern society wants to dispute it, marriage is one man and one woman and there should not be some easy 'escape clause' when troubles come.

It was made for procreation which only a man and a woman can do. When you marry you make a vow before God, or you should, since marriage was created by Him. It is sad to be at a wedding where God and the Bible have been left out. Jesus should be Lord and center of your marriage relationship. Marriage is in fact ordained by God.

When a marriage is controlled by parents of either the bride or groom there is trouble brewing. The husband leaves and cleaves as does the wife. Parents out there back off and let your married adult children live their lives without trying to control them.

The marriage vows are clear when it says "leave and cleave" in Genesis 2:24. If you don't trouble is a brewing. Also the marriage bed should be undefiled it says in Hebrews 13:4.  "Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral."

Satan will attempt to pervert love. Look at the Hollywood movies. Is that the ideal we strive for or do we strive for what it says in 1 Corinthians 13? Read that chapter when you get a moment. It is used at lots of weddings.

Matthew 19:4-6 says   “Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at 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 to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate."
God says  in Malachi 2:6 " I hate divorce". Divorce is a tearing away of a joined unit. It is wise to totally understand what marriage is and perhaps even have more marital counseling as many factors can influence the marriage. It is more than kissing and sex. Life takes over and the man and woman need to learn to live together in harmony and in agreement over many issues from finances, vacations, religion, to bearing children some day. Two different backgrounds come together similar to two streams coming together to form a river. There may be some turmoil but you are forming a brand new family and a brand new life. It is exciting!

For further reading see Ephesians 5:21-33. Be blessed. Marriage is indeed a GOOD thing just like God said especially if you marry your best friend!

PRAYER: Lord God I want to be a representative for you whether single or married and if married I want to keep you in the center of my marriage. No matter how my spouse treats me I will love him or her unconditionally. Help me to overlook faults and seek to love with the kind of love you desire me to. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Click on link to enjoy an older song that used to be played at weddings lots.
http://youtu.be/utdPh1Ec1Ws

Note: big time spiritual warfare on this one. First it ends up mysteriously in my trash folder then I could not get it to line up right. But good news is I found it and no matter what the format looks like it is going out.

ARGUE! WHO ME?

How do you end arguments if they come up? Usually the best way is if you are you wrong to admit it and if you are not wrong and other person keeps fighting to just talk peacefully and calmly.  Satan loves if it he can get people disagreeing and bickering and loves to cause arguments, in families especially. The home is supposed to be a joyful haven and it can be! When a disagreement occurs it is usually over something really minor and can get blown all out of proportion. It is best to recognize first our battle is not against flesh and blood but against Satan. John 10:10 says "Satan comes to kill, steal, and destroy".

   So many fights and people whose marriages broke up probably could have been avoided if they would have remembered that a soft answer turns away wrath(See Proverbs 15:1),do not keep a record of wrongs(1 Corinthians 15:5) and be able to say "I am sorry". If some one does not do this the battle rages on. There are families who have feuds over something that could be ended if they would come together, talk, and pray. You have to keep Christ in the center of relationships. James 1:20 says " for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires."  It is impossible to lead a righteous life if we are angry and bitter.

How does an argument occur in the first place? Usually by a misunderstood or misspoken word. James chapter 3 warns of the dangers of the tongue. It is full of deadly poison unless controlled by the Holy Spirit. Anger sometimes also causes some people to spew forth cuss words. This should never happen. James 3:9-11 says "with the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?"

Psalm 101:2 says "I will try to walk a blameless path, but how I need your help, especially in my own home where I long to act as I should." Ephesians 4:26 says "And do not sin by letting anger control you. Don't let the sun go down while you are still angry."  Going to bed mad is not a good thing and you probably will not sleep anyway.

If people argued at work like some of them do at home they would be fired. Why is it easy to fight with those closest to us? It does not have to even happen. Make up your mind as a married couple you will not allow it to happen. Someone has to be able to put little brush fires out before they burn down the forest,in other words. To keep love alive you have to keep kindness, gentleness, respect, and the ability to forgive and forget alive. Have true unconditional genuine love. If you are reading this and have been quarreling and do not feel that love ask God to restore it. Newlyweds reading this have the chance to stay in the word of God together, pray together and not let divisions ever begin. Learn to blow things off. Learn to laugh.

If only people would get out the word of God and follow it but some would say "oh do not go getting religious on me and shoving the Bible down my throat!". Well guess what? Therein lie the answers and solutions to most of life's issues and problems.  The devil will do anything he can to keep you from wanting to read it. Satan would rather keep you mad and holding grudges. The Bible says in Proverbs 14:29 "A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly." 2 Timothy 2:23 says "Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels." James 4:1 says "What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you?"

The Bible indeed has lots to say about fighting and quarrels. Try getting out your Bible and reading 1 Corinthians 13 each night for at least a week. Ask God to change your attitude if there is someone you are mad at or have had issues with. God can transform you and your hard heart if only you will ask Him. Replace anger with joy and a peaceful spirit. It is possible!!

PRAYER: Lord I do want to act like a Christian in all that I say and do. Forgive me for any anger or wrong thoughts I may have and help me to let go of anything inside of me that wants to stir up strife. I want to walk in peace and harmony and not give Satan a foothold. In Jesus name, Amen.

LOVE REVOLUTION

We all probably have people in our lives that 'push our buttons' so to speak. Perhaps we said something once to offend or hurt someone and even though you asked the person to forgive you they just can not let it go  and will not let you back into their 'inner circle'. Some would say move on and cut your losses. Shake the dust from your feet is what it says in God's word in  Matthew 10:14. Romans 12:14 says "Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse."  Our human instinct is to be angry but God wants us to be bigger than that. He wants us to love this person even if they do not want our love. Heap burning coals on their head it says in Proverbs 25:21-22. " If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you."

 Pray about it and then get your mind off it. Satan is the one wanting you to obsess and reason things out in your head.  Matthew 5:44 says " But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." It is only through the super natural ability given to us through the holy spirit that this is possible. 1 Peter 3:9 says "Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing." Colossians 3:2 says to "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." God can give you the strength to get your mind thinking about something else. It just takes practice and discipline.

If the problem is with a friend or business associate it is different than if you are talking about the offense of a marriage partner, for instance. People today seem so quick to throw in the towel on marriages thus wrecking lives in their wake. Marriages take a bit more of an effort than just praying although that is vitally important. When you have conflict or hurt from a spouse if you intend to fulfill your vows and live happily ever after then you have to talk things out and choose to let it go and forgive. "Love bears all things" as it says in 1 Corinthians 13. Malachi 2:16 simply says "I hate divorce." As a couple, read the Bible and do what it says, simple as that! Treat each other with kindness and respect and learn to overlook an offense.

There you have it. With the Lords' help you can achieve peace in your life and resolve conflict. Keep in mind that Satan is the one out to destroy relationships. If you are hurting because of a broken relationship with a close friend just give it to God and try to let it go. God heals, so let Him.

PRAYER:  Lord I thank you for the gift of friendships. Personalities are different and sometimes conflicts and misunderstanding occur. In my own effort Lord I can try to get forgiveness but if the person refuses to forgive all I can do is give it to you and let it go. In Jesus name ,Amen.

LOVE CHECK UP

Today let's look at your 'love walk' and see if it needs to be fine tuned. It it easy for those dating to continually show love and respect and kindness. Somewhere along the line for some couples there may be a love breakdown. This does not have to happen and should not happen.It also is not God's plan. Self can get on the throne and God off the throne and thus arguments occur.  It is the enemy working to try to tear apart families. If a couple looks to God's word and does what it says that love can grow and grow to become stronger through the years. Understanding, kindness and respect are the keys. 

But what if you are doing what the word of God says but your spouse is not? Basically you have to learn that "a soft answer turns away wrath." Proverbs 15:1 says "A  gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare."  Those  just starting out in a relationship have an awesome opportunity. A young couple can start by praying together each day. Not just a "lay me down to sleep prayer" or " bless this food" but sincere prayer together as a couple. Start early listening to God's voice and putting God first. When strife occurs, talk it over, pray and as Barney Fife would say "nip it in the bud".

Let's say you feel anger in your heart. God says to pray for those who have hurt you. That is not enemies idea. Satan wants to keep fueling fire of arguments so recognize that now and do not allow him to cause division. Stay in the Bible, that is the key. Don't let the sun go down on your anger either. Choose to forgive no matter how hard. Find a way to do at least one kind thing for each other daily.Luke 6:38 says "bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you." Ephesians 4:26 says ""In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry."

1 Corinthians 13 is often read at weddings and is called the 'love chapter'. Let's take a look at portions of it. Starting with verse 4 it says " love suffers long and is kind, it is not jealous". Verse 5 goes on to say "it is not easily angered and keeps no record of wrongs". Now that one is hard and takes the power of God to do. Human nature wants to lash back and say "don't you see what they did to me?" God does see and it makes Him sad but He will deal with the offender, just keep praying. Take time to read the entire chapter today. Ask God to give you His love for not only a spouse if married but for those in your life that are not so lovable.

So you get the idea. Love can grow deeper and it should. When you recognize strife stop then and there and pray. Do things to grow love as well. Let's call them acts of kindness. Ideas are flowers, wash dishes, an unexpected gift, a kind word. Above all stay in the Bible and ask God to help you walk in love to those around you daily. Your kindness can turn things around.

PRAYER:   Father I believe you are working in my life. Even sometimes when it is hard to love help me do it anyway. I choose to move on and give up my right to be angry. Help me show kindness to those around me daily as that shows God's love as well. In Jesus name. Amen!

NOTE:
08/14/11 Love Worth Fighting For Marriage Event - LIVE
Kirk Cameron w/ Warren BarfieldDecatur, AL


For those who saw the movie 'Fireproof' it was an awesome movie. Currently Kirk Cameron is on the Love Worth Fighting For marriage tour across the US. Here in Huntsville it is this weekend. For info go to
http://www.feedyourfaith.org/tag/love-worth-fighting-for-tour/
This event for those married or getting married or anyone.

MARRIAGE...MR AND MRS...THAT IS RIGHT!!

Marriage, traditional Biblical marriage, is under attack today. People in the world may say "But don't two people who are in love regardless of if they are a man and lady, deserve to be married like everyone else?" Not if  you believe Gods' word they don't. This is not about 'hate' like the media and radical gay rights groups try to portray. Sure there are those 'loving Christians' who do have an attitude of no mercy or grace for this sin but this is about saying it is OK to enter into Holy matrimony. If you have not realized it by now the media are not friendly to Christians or the body of Christ. They are out to discredit us and make us look like loonies.Some may get offended that I even categorize it as a sin. I am getting this from the Bible and not making it up.

Genesis 2:18-22 clearly states that in the beginning God created woman to complement man and be his helpmate. Two men or two woman are not designed for procreation. It is impossible. Satan is coy. He comes in and deluded people into believing his lies and some even within the Christian community. Hebrews 13:4 says "Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral." The problem is some do not recognize this as being immoral.

Did we ever think we would see a time when the government of our country has to get involved and change what the Bible says and decide marriage is okay for not just a man and a woman but for same sex couples as well? The world is going crazy!  No one 'hates' these same sex couples but we are trying to keep marriage sacred like God intended.  Our own government is trying to redefine marriage. What on earth would our Founding Fathers say? What is Jesus saying? I will say this and that he is disappointed that man has believed the enemies lies. Our government which was founded on Gods' word is now saying they want homosexuality open in the military too and to give them rights to family housing and all the rest. We have gone too far. Read Romans Chapter 1 starting with verse 22 to see what God thinks about men lying with other men. This is not Becky's words, these are God's words. It is right there in the Holy Bible. It is political correctness or God. You choose. I know who I choose.

Romans 6:12 says " Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires."   Those engaged in this lifestyle do not see it as a sin, that is the problem. When you do not obey and follow the Bible anything goes. 1 Thessalonians 5:22 says "reject every kind of evil."  First the heart of man has to be changed so he or she sees it is wrong. Also condemning Christians need to learn to help by loving all people regardless of their sin. That is the way to reach people. We have all sinned and there is not one sin that is 'worse' than others like lots of self righteous Christians imagine.
Psalm 12:8 says "The wicked freely strut about when what is vile is honored among men." What are we seeing today in America? People who are normalizing this sin and making laws to protect it. God will judge us. He may be loving but he has a plan and a design for marriage. If you are a person struggling with 'same sex attraction' God indeed can set you free. It may take some time and work but you can be set free. By just saying that I have already made some people mad. God designed marriage for companionship and procreation between a man and a woman. We can not change the Bible to suit our needs.

PRAYER:  Lord God we need you to transform minds and hearts before this battle over same sex marriage is won and the traditional family is destroyed. The enemy has clouded the minds of many and lied to them. Father we ask that you open the eyes of the blind and heal those caught in this sin.We know what happens when we continue to reject your word. Save this land Lord and set people free from the bondage they are caught up in.  In Jesus name Amen.

Attached is a song they used to play at weddings allot and I have not heard it in years. Enjoy its' message. The Wedding Song..There is Love..
http://youtu.be/utdPh1Ec1Ws

For help with same sex attraction please go to the following website:
http://www.exodusinternational.org/

NOTE During the writing of this devotion I lost lots of what I had written.Had to recreate it. I do not think enemy wanted this to be sent out

OVERLOOK FAULTS

It is easy to point the finger or correct people. We may feel we know it all and have reason to 'fix others'.  In our families it can be easy if we are not careful to start taking the spouse for granted and kind of bossing them around, criticizing them or treating them like a child. This does not make for a very good 'love potion'. Avoid picking on each other and fault finding. No matter if it is a friend but especially if it is the one you love. Other people may be ugly and mean but you can overlook it and choose to be the 'bigger person' and ignore bad stuff. Give things over to the Lord.

- Hide quoted text -
Psalm 19:12 says "How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart? Cleanse me from these hidden faults." No one is perfect. People leave socks in the floor, lights on, and dirty dishes in the sink. If we try hard to be like Jesus then there would not be conflicts and fault finding. If we did what scripture told us to do there we could all get along and there would not be problems. Seek to say and do good things and think before you speak as to avoid a confrontation you do not need.

Proverbs 19:11 says "A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense." Do not pick out faults in others. When we look at others and condemn them we have to realize we too  have faults. If you are married it is so important to try to remain best friends. Do not start nit picking and telling the other one what to do. No one likes to be bossed around. When you feel like fault finding try buying a rose to bring home instead. Good idea don't you think?

Ephesians 4:32 says "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Truly seek to be like Christ. Seek to sincerely put the other person first. For marriages you will stay in love and for friendships you will remain friends. Colossians 3:13 says to "Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Do not let Satan get the upper hand. I always say confusion and problems are the way the devil gets in and gets division going and starts to tear apart relationships. Be aware of it and do not let it seep into your relationships. The enemy likes to divide things and destroy them. Tell Satan to take a hike and leave you alone!

Proverbs 14:29 says "A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly." One of my all time favorite verses that I try to live by and I think it is great for newlywed couples to memorize and that is James 1:19 which says "My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."

Think of ways to build people up instead of tearing them down. I Thessalonians 5:11 says "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." Get rid of a critical spirit and replace it with a spirit of love, kindness, and humility.

PRAYER: Lord thank you for helping me to walk the walk that pleases you. If I am ever critical of any one I am close to please forgive me and help me seek ways to overlook faults and failures of others and focus on good points. I know this pleases you and ask for help doing it. In Jesus Name, Amen!

Assignment: Read 1 Corinthians 13