The Three R's - Part Two - "Are We Okay?"

As I mentioned, I have been anxious for three couples in marital difficulties. Upon hearing the news of marriage #3 being in danger I looked at my husband and asked, “Are we okay?”
Everything that felt sure and safe suddenly felt wobbly and weak. I needed his assurance that our relationship was strong because of the shocking news. After all if it could happen to other Christian couples maybe it could sneak up on us as well.

In the past several weeks I find myself appreciating my husband more than ever. I think he must be thinking similar things because he has been even more attentive and showing his love in lots of little ways. One thing I have learned in watching these other relationships is that I should take nothing for granted. Marriage is hard work—it is something we have to strive to keep healthy by communicating with one another and putting one another first.

I wonder how I can put into practice the messages in the letter to Philemon as I watch these marriage relationships disintegrate. One's divorce is already final—I don't believe God is done there—but I know it can seem like hope has died. The other two are spiraling fast. Can God restore them? Absolutely! But, the people involved need to be willing. Paul shows this in verses eight and nine when he writes to Philemon about doing the right thing in regard to Onesimus.

I don't know if I can be like Paul and somehow share just the right words to cause a change of heart in another person. But, if given the chance I will try. Paul's message of redemption, restoration and reconciliation is really the message of the Gospel. It isn't new, but it is fresh for every situation. And, I believe with my whole heart that His Word holds fresh truth for today's messes. That's why it is called daily bread. Fresh bread to meet the needs of hungry hearts.

I would love to hear your stories of hope. Have the Three R's made a difference in your life and heart?

Till next time,

Jeanne

Restoration - Are You Willing?

All around me, marriages are crumbling—long standing marriages of friends and family members. I feel blindsided by the news and watch as divorces become final, and couples crumble. I keep thinking, God can restore these relationships, and He can. But, people need to be willing in order for Him to step in and begin the process of mending. Relationships are complicated and love must be cultivated in order to survive the onslaught of enemy fire. Make no mistake, Satan wants to destroy families. He wants to see relationships die—he chortles in victory every time he successfully darkens the hearts and deadens the minds of God's people.

I need you to know that I am grappling with my next blog post, dealing with restoration and reconciliation. God wants us to be reconciled with Himself and one another. And, humanly, that is a very tricky business. Ultimately it means dying to self.

The question is, are we willing?
Marriages are only one little aspect to this topic, but it is one that is on my mind and heart.

More to follow....in the meantime, pray for those who need to experience the restoring power of God.