Recently, a client requested a list of Scriptures which could help guide her and her boyfriend in their future marriage. Immediately, familiar marriage passages such as Ephesians 5, 1 Corinthians 13, and 1 Peter 3 came to mind. But, there are also many verses not seemingly pertaining to marriage which still pertain to marriage. About ten years ago, I heard a sweet lady in our Sunday School class say, “Don’t study marriage to have a good marriage. Study Christ.” I recall that advice today. It is good to prepare for marriage, to learn communication skills, and discuss finances. However, no … [Read more...]
Consider Your Deal Breakers Before You Date
When we are head-over-heels “in love,” our common sense seems to hibernate for a while. Have you ever felt so exhilarated with your new relationship that you glossed over issues which would normally concern you? It is important to take the time to consider not only what you are looking for in a future spouse, but with which issues you do not want to yoke yourself. Okay, so he spends money a little frivolously, but I love his free spirit! She is reluctant to talk about her faith, but I feel certain she loves Jesus, and we will be fine. The time for deciding what you can and cannot … [Read more...]
Your Relationship Needs a Community
Do you like to be surrounded by people and activity, or do you prefer a quiet house or a deserted trail? For as long as I can remember, I have treasured my alone time. I used to thoroughly enjoy the Wednesday nights when Eric would go to a game night and leave me alone in our home for the evening (that comment is not at all about him, only about me). Even if I changed nothing about my routine, something about knowing I was completely alone felt rejuvenating, as if I was a cell phone which was charging. (And I was always excited for him to come home. ~smile~) In fact, I adore my alone time … [Read more...]
Now is the Time to Prepare
“Be prepared.” “Are you prepared?” “You may want to prepare for challenging times ahead.” It seems, now more than ever, we hear warnings to get our houses in order. Those of you who consume a steady diet of news probably hear this sentiment more than anyone; and there is no shortage of our favorite YouTube content creators spreading a similar message. Get ready. My initial response to these warnings is to put my fingers in my ears and sing loudly to drown out those warnings. Preparation sounds like suffering is ahead and who of us wants to think about suffering? So, if you react similarly … [Read more...]
Intentionally Sharing Your Faith Together
Happy day after Easter! How was your Resurrection celebration? Did you spend the day with family, maybe watching little legs run towards brightly colored eggs? Did you meet with your church community and take communion in remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice (and in the joy of His imminent return)? Maybe you simply spent the day with your sweetheart enjoying beautiful Spring weather. Last week, someone mentioned how often she eagerly waits for the marked down Easter candy (as I am sure she does for every holiday – and we sugar enthusiasts appreciate it); but, this year, a dear friend helped … [Read more...]