MARRIAGE GOD'S WAY MINISTRIES

Get Ready, get ready, get ready. . .

2009-04-28T07:30:00.001-07:00

Get ready, get ready is probably the best advise one could give to those who are contemplating marriage; however, it seems to loose it's interpretation by the time of this significant event. In today's segment we see why!

The Holy scriptures warns us to make sure we are "ready" for the task ahead: Luke 14:28
For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? As you can see it is so very important make sure that we have considered the cost of this endeavor.
Marriage is sacred, and it is life-long if you prepare correctly.

Many marriages fail simply because one or the other planned for only one. . . .let me say that again! YOU ONLY PLANNED FOR YOURSELF AND NOT YOUR PARTNER! Astonishing isn't it. That's right, you did not prepare to submit to the union of "oneness". Matthew 19:6
Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

Getting ready my precious readers involves so much more than the exterior thrills and frills. It is the meeting of the minds to make that total commitment to each other for the rest of your lives. Sound scary. . .it's not.
There are still those that have made it work for hundreds of years. It will work for you too; if you just follow the simple rule. . . .get ready, get ready, . . . to sit down and finding out who it is you're getting ready for!

What's the message today? "Get Ready, get ready" of course! May the Lord richly bless you today and always remember. . .

You are Blessed!

Together we stand. . .divided we FAIL!

2009-04-07T22:09:00.000-07:00

Greek methology as well as the Holy scriptures teaches us that "I am my brother's keeper" Well, if that's true, then what about our spouses?

Yes my precious readers, todays segment highlights just that; the responsibility of the "keeper". That's right, it's you, it's me, it's all who have entered into that institution called "marriage".

Let's really take a good look at this institution of marriage. The Apostle Paul charactorized it as a mystery. Our Lord says that it is the only cause for a man or woman to leave mother and father and cleave to each other to become "one";
but Jesus also said this: Matthew 12:25 And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:
I believe that a marriage union is like a kingdom within itself; together we stand, and divided we will definately fail!

So. . .are we our spouses keeper? Of course we are. In fact if you look at the word keeper, it comes from the word "keep". When you keep something, you never let it go!
Get it?. . .marriage was designed by God for keeps. Ha! ha! and Halelujah!! When you stand together as one, it means you are keeping each other.
Wow, what a revelation. That's right, no division and no divorce.
It's O.K. to get mad at me for now;(smiles) just allow these principles to sink into your spirit. It is a fountain of living water; and will cause your marriages to spring forth as the noon day. Don't believe it, I dare you to try it.
Well. . .Enough said. . . . do have a wonderful day and always remember:

You are Blessed!

The Strong Man

2009-04-06T23:26:00.001-07:00

In today's segment, we are talking about the "strong man". What or who is exactly "the strong man".

Mark 3:27 No man can enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, except he will first bind the strong man; and then he will spoil his house.
As you can see, the key here is to bind the strong man.
Metaphorically speaking, the strong man could actually be your relationship, the head of the household, even the principals (the Word of God), etc.

What am I getting at: you see my dear readers, many times we allow outside influences to interrupt our peace, our standards, yes. . . .and our marriages.
If you notice however, the Holy scriptures let us know that this interruption can only happen if we are bound. Hmmm, interesting isn't it.
Ephesians 5:31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
. . . or they two shall be "the strong man". . . get my drift?

How very important is to make sure that nothing disturbs that "strong man",. . . not mama, not daddy, not friends, not money, not hard times, good times, sickness, and so forth.
Here's the message: the chain is only as strong as it's weakest link, just as the "church" is only as strong as it's marriages, as it's marriages are only as strong as their relationship, and their relationship is only as strong as the principles it stands on. Of course I'm speaking of God's Holy word!
Wow!. . . see. . . .it's all relevant.
Question: is your marriage relationship free, or has the strong man been bound? Something to think about eh?
Let's grow on that thought and always remember,

You are Blessed.

Marriage. . . .Sacred or Safe?

2008-12-06T17:22:00.000-08:00

In today's segment we discuss the essence and purpose of marriage.

God's plan for mankind has always been the act of "fellowship". In marriage it is taken to the next level of fellowship known as "a union". Based of course first on love, then the relationship that makes two one.
Our foundations should generally be biblically based, as God intended; however, as the generations became more compromising, the marriages became points of refuge rather than the anticipated haven (two become one). Instead of being a sacred joining, it became a moral obligation for reasons that are not even good reasons to even get married.

Some marry just to get out of the house, some because of pregnancy, some for just lustful attractions, many for convenience, others for money, some for security, and a host of various intents that do not justify the act.

God has set a desire in each of us to have meaningful and fulfilled companionship. Genesis 2:18 And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. . . . and when pursued in the right manner, it becomes a sacred and lasting event. After all, it is designed to be the most meaningful and trusting relationship; one that mirrors God's relationship with mankind. (if accepted)

I submit to you today, take a closer look at your marriage. Take back the essence. Re establish your meaning, even from past mistakes. It's never too late. You can never change the past; but you can impact your future. Now is the time to present your marriage Sacred!... and then present it God. He'll make up what you think you're lacking.
Live, love each other for who you are. . . and have a wonderful Christmas Holiday and always remember . . . . .

You are Blessed!

What we take for granted!

2008-10-17T16:51:00.000-07:00

Matthew 6:20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
As you can see the scriptures clearly instruct us to prioritize in order that we don't just take things for granted.
Our message today is a simple one. When we over look the small things of life, we tend to take those things for granted; and even though God has provided all things for us to enjoy, we still have a choice of what we consider to be valuable and what is not.
The treasures that the scriptures speak of are the unseen things but most important thing that we usually take for granted. . .life, love, peace, health, opportunity, and most of all forgiveness.
Take a second look at your own life, and I'm sure you'll find a host of benefits; so what am saying today. . . .love life and appreciate it, because remember this: Time can never be saved, so make the very best of it by taking nothing for granted.

May God richly bless you today!

FAITH TO SUSTAIN YOUR MARRIAGE!

2008-10-15T07:14:00.000-07:00

Today is a day of tests,trials, and integrity. In today's message we explore the sustaining factor of faith.
The scriptures gives us a very profound definition of faith as read in Hebrews, chapter 11. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
You see, it is the unseen things that really matter; and especially when it pertains to your marriage. It is actually the mindset that really sustains your marriage. What am I saying here? . . . simply this: if in your thinking you are determine that your marriage will not just survive, but also thrive and blossom, you will!
Regardless of the situations or the circumstances that may arise in your relationships, the will to do. . . . .let me say that again: The will to do. . . . is the deciding factor that will determine your success. In other words, God expects you to actually think like He thinks and subsequently act as He would act. Listen to the scriptures: 1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

Now even though this particular passage is speaking to believers, the principle is still the same. You can never be defeated if you have made up in your mind that you and your spouse is going through these situations together as one! Praise God!. . . .did you get that? As one!, that's the key my dear readers.
The mindset of Faith is the mindset of two becoming one!; and with that kind of thinking, your marriage is unbreakable.

Here's the challenge. Take the time to establish whether your relationship will stand in faith or fall in defeat. The choice you know is actually yours. Yes, it's just that simple. That's why Marriage God's way is so powerful. It is the winning solution that stands the test of time for marriages.
Have a wonderful day and always remember. . . .

YOU ARE BLESSED!

"out of sight. . .out of mind". . .

2008-08-20T07:26:00.000-07:00

Out of sight, out of mind is not only just a saying, but it has been proven to have become a practice in the lives of many marriages; and not just marriages, in life in general; which is why our topic today is so very important.

Often in our adventure through life, including married life, we encounter situations that appear to be unconquerable which often makes you feel helpless and sometimes inadequit; never ever stopping to consider that we live in a world where there exists a "greater power" than ourselves. Sounds real religious doesn't it? Well it isn't, it's just a plain truth.

We take the path of "out of sight, out of mind" too often as an excuse to say: well there are just some things we aren't able to do, and you are exactly right! However; allow me to remind you of the written Word of God, In Matthew 19:26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

The misunderstandings, the fears, the inadequacies that we experience in our relationships and in our lives are actually thresholds for us to take another look! By that I simply mean this: if really and truly in your heart and mind, you want a solution to any dilima, especially in your marriage, you surely can find it by going one step further and seeking a higher authority. That's right my friends, you probably know where I'm going with this: it's God! want to really save that marriage?, seek an answer from the Lord Almighty. Call it what you will, but you'll never know unless you've tried. Don't just take my word, try it for yourself! After all, it's your marriage and your life.

Yes my dear friends, inside of you all is the real deciding factor and it is the link necessary to solve any situation in your life and relationship. It's called desire.
How often do we use the old famous "out of sight, out of mind" clause to proclaim: well I guess there is no other way". Are you getting my point here?
The real message today is: God allows situations to occur in our marital relationships sometimes as a test, and sometimes to see where our heart really is, and sometimes just to give us an additional option! WOW. . . How great Thou art. . .

Once you recognize that life doesn't just revolve around you, but it is rather just the reaching out and not necessarily the putting out.

Marriages and lives are saved through someone just reaching out! Have you reached out for God's guidance. . . .you'd be surprised at the results!
Have a wonderful day and remember. . .

You are Blessed!

..you got...you got...what I want. . ..

2008-08-12T06:54:00.000-07:00

Well my dear readers, even though our topic today comes from an old Teddy Pendergrass pop album leric, it is the profoundness of it's meaning.

You got, you got what I want seems to be a common mindset of many marriages today. The new house, the new car, the prestigest job,and don't forget,plenty of money; (of course I understand that you need money to live in this world), and even sometimes the apparel.
Now don't get me wrong, nothing is wrong with any of those things. It's just that they are not necessary to build a strong marriage relationship.
Let's take a look at the Holy scriptures and see what our Lord has to say about that subject. Luke 12:15 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.
Interesting isn't it? You see the key word here is covetouness which comes along with some other baggage such as envy, jealousy, etc.; I'm sure you understand.

So what am I saying here? Simply this. . . .your marriage is fulfilled with so many other wonderful attributes that gives you the sense of accomplishment that many other marriages never attain. . . such as: Love,trust,honesty,forgiveness,faithfulness,happiness,contentment,joy, peace. You will never be able to substitute these attributes with THINGS!
Let's be honest, how many couples do you know with new houses,cars and etc., and are still unhappy?

Here's the perspective: Colossians 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: . . . that's the real truth!
Matthew 16:26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Do your friends, neighbors, or anything in this world really have what you want in place of your happiness in marriage? Think about it!

Contrary to popular belief, when you look at relationships as a whole, you find out that most people would love to have all those impressive things, but more importantly, they would rather have some one to share them with.

The message today is: seek after the "real thing" for your marriages and not those superficial things that only satisfy you but for a little while.
Marriage God's way takes longer, but boy is it lasting!
Have a wonderful day. . .and remember. . .

You are Blessed!

Does it really matter?

2008-08-08T17:36:00.000-07:00

Does it really matter?. . . .is the question in today's segment.

In many marriages today, hidden agendas seem to be a common practice; or is it just not letting your right hand know what the left hand is doing. Nevertheless, both husband and wife should be accountable for their actions, especially when it comes to their marriage relationship, or stewardship if you will.

The Holy scriptures tell us that the married couple possesses an ownership or has a control or power over the other. Let's check it out. . .
1 Corinthians 7:4 The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife. . . .so as you can see it is equal, (it is very important that you understand that)

Now some believe that this power is not just physical, but it also deals with honesty,respect,loyalty,trust,and most of all integrity. So wouldn't you say that what we do when no one is looking matters too? As you can see my faithful readers, all of the above characteristics are compiled into one word. . .
L O V E! . . and this Love is described in the Bible as a God type love. . .meaning without conditions or secrets, or hidden agendas, or dishonesty, pretense of virtue, and etc.

Often in our relationships we say or do things that are one-sided or self centered,(if you know what I mean). Yes my friends, it does really matter!

"If you're going to play the game, you must abide by the rules" an author once wrote;
and if you want a healthy and lasting relationship, you should play by "the Rule" in other words, God's rules for marriage. You see, it only takes one small turn from the rule, or one slip of the tongue, or one hidden deed, that can destroy a destiny. Think about it. Does it matter. . .of course it does! How we prioritize is just as important as what we prioritize!

Does your agenda include your partner or spouse. Will it please him or her? Will it please God? Ask yourself the question, does it really matter? Just a little food for thought!
Have a wonderful day and a happy and fulfilled marriage. . .God's way!

And as always, You are Blessed!

The Balance

2008-04-13T07:57:00.000-07:00

In today's article, we discuss the word balance.
Simply because it is the "balance" that is necessary in you life, and in your relationships in marriage to keep you focused in allowing this element of balance have it's place in your emotional and physiological well being.

Often times, we find ourselves not allowing balance to become an ingredient of our lives, and more often in our marriages.

What exactly is balance?
Well, basically balance is the ability to allow equal portions of humanity to take it's place in our day to day life styles. Here's an example: How we deal with death is just as important as how we deal with life. That's right my friends it's OK to cry, it's OK to feel remorse, it's OK to forgive, yes it's OK to walk away, and it's even OK to feel overwhelmed.
You see my friends it is the strong man or woman who can experience the realities of life; be it good or bad, and still be functional. With marriage, it is the same way.

The obstacles of marriage have never guaranteed a smooth sailing; which is why the phrase "for better or for worse" was incorporated into the declaration of our wedding vows; and the only way you will have the "balance" in your life or in your marital relationships is to allow your self to react to these realities and encounters of life; and yes, sometimes we are overwhelmed. It's called being human!

The Bible even informs us that there are times for every purpose: a time for everything. . .Ecclesiastes 3:1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: 2A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; 3A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; 5A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; 6A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; 7A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; 8A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.

What's the message here?. . .simply this. . .it's not necessary to pre-occupy ourselves and pretend that life and it's realities don't affect us; because the truth of the matter is, they do affect us, and rightly so.
It's how we choose to deal with these realities that releases the "balance" necessary to live and go on with life.

Together with God and prayer we stand and live, and have balance. We are all a part of the human family that the Lord has ordained. He has given us the ability to even choose a helper, a lover, a friend, a companion, and most of all a supporter. That's what marriage is really all about.
Am I saying that we all need someone, yes, that is why balance is so important.
Won't you decide today to share the load with someone. (and to the married, I say: share the load together)
After all, your tomorrow counts on what you have decided to do today!
Have a wonderful week and remember "Balance" is the key!

You are Blessed!

The One-Sided Marriage

2008-04-06T04:56:00.000-07:00

In today's segment,we are discussing "the one-sided marriage".
Generally in these types of scenarios, married couples barely survive; simply because those relationships are always lopsided. Let me explain:

Although God type marital relationships are based on giving and receiving, the one-sided relationship boils down to one always giving and the other always receiving.
In many many cases the "giver" usually reaches a point of no return and then has no other alternative but to give, that is if he or she wants to keep the relationship going. How sad is that?
On the other hand, the "receiver" is usually the dominating force of that marriage and ultimately becomes sort of a dictator. You know: "my way or the highway". These are commonly known as threat tactics that the dominating spouse be it he or she uses for leverage to manipulate the other; and in most cases, that person will go to any lengths to keep that control; which brings me to my next point.

Holy Scripture tells us this: Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. which is referring to the blatant sins of this world. Yes that's right, including "manipulation"

The true love story of a married couple should possess the attributes of the Spirit:
love ,joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance, which the Bible says: against such things, there is no law. Isn't that poweful. However, if you have manipulation in your relationship, it falls under the category of "the works of the flesh". . . Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, withchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,murders, drinkenness,revelligns,and envyings, which the Bible says that they which do these things will not inherit the kingdom of God, no matter how many times you go to church or how much money you give to charity, YOU WILL NOT ENTER INTO GOD'S KINGDOM. . .GALATIANS 5:19 You know who you are!

Here's my point; manipulation is not a tangible thing; it is a concept and intent of the heart which can only be seen by it's devastating results. ( the partner who is being manipulated typicaly is unhappy but afraid to challenge the manipulator for fear of the destruction of the marriage.)

My dear friends, it is God's will that your marriage be void of this type of practice but rather be filled with His words of life, health, love, and longevity.
Here's what I'm saying: It's never too late to change; and in Christ, you can make that change. God has given us a road map to guide us to the true essence of our marriage relationships as we follow the Holy scriptures.

Galatians 5:26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. . You see, real love doesn't manipulate, it rejuvinates.
Put your marriage in the balances of God's Holy Word and see if there's anything that needs to be corrected. You just might be surprised at what you find.

Have a wonderful day and always remember:

YOU ARE BLESSED!

Marriage. . the ultimate challenge?

2008-03-21T09:07:00.000-07:00

Is Marriage, the ultimate challenge. . .
In today’s article, our question is: why is marriage such an ultimate challenge rather than becoming the ultimate solution to companionship.

In our world today,with 21st century technology, we now have created and present to the world, the convenience of councilors, books, blogs, and even websites to help us research and offer the male and female the opportunity to choose the most compatible person for our lives who may share the same goals, ideologies, hobbies, recreations, passions, family values, sex drives, educational preferences, and many times the same religion.

We have even developed laws as I refer to as the “just in case laws”, that actually provides the marriages to excuse the “till death do you part” and grant equal shares of the gatherings during the relationship; be it a short time or with many years and siblings attached.

So why then are we still struggling with reluctance and fear that marriage some how is still the ultimate challenge. Well, if I may be so bold as to point out the missing piece to the puzzle is its sacredness. That’s right, when you talk about marriage you are talking about something sacred and spiritual that should never be taken lightly or with mediocrity.

Marriage is however, the ultimate commitment; it is the ultimate surrender, and most of all it is the ultimate union and I might add the ultimate security only backed by God ‘s promise that it will last a life time if embarked upon using the right support systems.

Yes my dear friends, these support systems are all found in the Holy Scriptures of course.
Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

As you can see, dear hearts, God always relates success with obedience to His instructions; and with out a doubt, He is definitely including marriage. Our marital longevity and success is incumbent upon our willingness and our obedience to God’s word. It is the true foundation for marriage. It is the quintessential relationship if you will, a match made in heaven some might say.

Now, the real “Ultimate Challenge”. . . . Is including God’s word in your marriage; and the best part about it is: it’s never too late to start. Rocky marriages, failing marriages, inconsistent marriages, weak marriages; you name it; God’s got the antidote for it. It’s all up to you to take the “ultimate challenge” and give your marriage an injection of hope, love, security, and most of all happiness. It’s in the Word of God folks!

Now, let’s see if you can remember this: with God’s Word. . . . .

You Are Blessed!

A Reply to a comment!

2008-03-20T05:04:00.001-07:00

My dear precious reader who commented on my previous article:

First and foremost, I believe that you may have totally misunderstood my article. I never suggested that the participation of the old testament Levite's was mandatory as it relates to the New testament believers.

Bible scholar or not, your conviction of giving to the church is only relevant to your personal relationship with God. ( perhaps you missed that part)
Secondly, the example that was mentioned in the new testament and old had absolutely nothing to do with tithing!!
Nevertheless my dear friend our ability to commit to the leading of the Spirit should be the driving force of our christian walk with God.

I do however agree that the teaching of how a person should give to the church is in fact wrong. Still the entire scriptures, from Genesis to Revelation should be taught in relation to Rightly dividing the Word of Truth
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

Since it is the Lord's job is to judge and ours as Christians is to love, it makes more sense to me that we approach every difference of opinion and topics of controversy in a more peaceful and loving manner.

After saying that, please let me say this: if my article has offended you in any way, please accept my sincere apologies, that was not my intention. The article was written to answer one individual's question and does not reflect the ideology of the church and it's giving policies. I do hope however you continue to read my writings in Marriage God's Way as they are my passions.

Marriage God's way is an exciting way of life. Married or not, it's concepts are fulfilling and life-changing as they pertain to God's Holy Word.

Please have a wonderful day and always remember. . .

YOU ARE BLESSED!

THE CONVICTION OF TITHING

2008-03-16T18:32:00.000-07:00

A reader wrote in about tithing; to ask whether it was right to tithe an entire paycheck.

Well let’s begin with a scriptural reference of tithing : Malachi 3:10 bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
Of course tithing has always been a basic Bible principal, since the beginning of time. However, let’s look at what actually is a tithe. The Bible says that it is 10% of what you have received. Nevertheless, we must take a closer look at the principal.

The wonderful and undeniable thing about God is this: each of us as human beings is individually unique in our being and in our relationship with God. As unfair as it may appear, every individual may have different requirements of the Master. Example:
When Jesus was speaking to the rich man in the book of St. Matthew 19:21 Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. . . .He was simply testing that man’s loyalty to see what was more important; faithfulness to the Lord’s principals or his money. After all, God has no use for money; it was merely a test of character.
In the old testament, a similar incident took place in the book of Genesis 22:2
And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of. . . .As you can see, here is another example of a test of obedience and a test of faith for that father Abraham. Surely God didn’t really want Abraham to kill Issac, his only son and by the way; (his promised by God son). As you read further in the chapter you will find God’s real reason for such an unreasonable request.
Genesis 22:11 And the angel of the LORD called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here am I. Genesis 22:12 And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me.

Now to address the initial question: it should be perfectly clear that each of us have a personal accountability to our selves in whether or not we choose to establish a relationship with the Lord. At that point it is what’s in our heart that determines the criteria that God requires of us. We are all not the same. What it may take for one will not even apply to another. Perhaps tithing an entire paycheck is what God requires of one individual, and from another He requires only the tithe. It is now important to know the leading of the Spirit concerning your individual convictions and relationship with God, and what is required of YOU.

The question now is Conviction. What’s yours? Will it take all, or just a tithe? Time to look inside your self.

Always remember, YOU ARE BLESSED!

Unconditional Love. . . .

2008-03-11T03:49:00.000-07:00

UNCONDITONAL LOVE: The bridge that connects all life!

My dear faithful readers; as I am recovering from my life threatening illness, I have decided to begin a segment with a most profound topic: "Unconditional Love".
In marriage, or in fact, in any relationship that requires love and commitment; should it be based on a criteria, or should it be unconditional? Good question eh?
Well let's examine it a little closer.

Many relationships have stood the test of time and survived but only to find out that there were clauses. Let me explain. Marriages are much like contracts. Contracts of course have specific guidelines, that if breached or in the case of unforeseen conditions arising, there becomes reason to end the relationship or in other words, make the contract void.

Let's see what God says about that? First of all, I can say this: There has never been a contract that has ever been broken by God. Why. . . "Unconditional Love". Listen to the scriptures: Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Wow!. . what a commitment. How wonderful would our marriages be if our commitments were that strong!

How important it is my dear friends to establish your marriage or relationship on the unconditional love that God speaks about in the Holy Scriptures.
It is the foundation of life, "Unconditional Love". It is the fountain of your existence.
My dear readers, don't fool yourselves, you have purpose and destiny, it's not by chance. Think about it! Unconditional love is why you are even here. John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

That's right, It is what God expects your principles to rely upon. After all, since we are made after His own image; shouldn't we posses some of His attributes?
Herein lays the common denominator, your ability to display unconditional love!
Without it, our relationships are merely episodes of time that have no substance.

In short, I say: examine your base, search out your heart, and see if the ingredient of "unconditional love" is present. It'll make all the difference in how you deal with life as well as how the destiny of your relationship will impact others as well as you environment, believe it or not!

There will always be many challenges of life and love; but the greatest testimony you could ever have is that of "Unconditional Love". Try it, it'll bless your entire life. It sure has blessed mine.

Always remember: You are Blessed!

Behind Closed Doors. . .

2008-01-11T03:49:00.000-08:00

Behind closed doors is the topic of discussion for today. It is the true habitat of the marriage; and it is also what God sees.

In today's segment, we look behind those closed doors. More often than not, people in general only allow you to see what they want you to see. The "other you" if you will. Nevertheless, the real you is what will determine the out come of your marriages. Let me explain.
You see, God has given us (the marriage) a road map or a guideline to prevent falter and ensure us that marriage God's way is the safest way to succeed. We all have a tendency to put on our best behavior in front of the crowd, but what really counts is what goes on "behind closed doors".

The marriage union as God has described in His Holy word says this: 1 Corinthians 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
1 Corinthians 13:2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
1 Corinthians 13:3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. . . . .and in the same light, comes marriage.

Let's talk layman language. . . .unless we are following the guidelines for marriage that God has layed out in His word, our outward display doesn't even count! Did you hear that? It doesn't even matter.

Here's the point; now that we have embarked into a new year, let's put God's word through the test. Let's see if marriage the Bible way really makes a difference.
I can assure you, it does. Actually it's behind those closed doors that really count.
It's not necessary to "mudsling" to know if what's taking place in your marriage is working.

Look at it this way. . . .if your house caught on fire from within, eventually it will destroy that which is within and ultimately destroy what's on the outside anyway. . . get my drift?

So let us take the challenge that the Lord has set before us. . .and that is to take Him at His word and simply trust Him with your marriage! Allow the richnest of God's word iron out the rough places in your marriage, and submit to the life-changing liberty that you will experience just by following His wisdom. I do, why don't you!
HAPPY NEW YEAR and as always. . . . .remember . . .
YOU ARE BLESSED!

"Reconciliation"

2007-12-27T02:59:00.000-08:00

Hello there readers! I hope you've enjoyed a wonderful Christmas holiday!
In today's segment, we discuss the word, "reconciliation". Reconciliation is a most important part of the marriage union.
It's important not only because it's necessary for unestablished relationships, but also it is the glue if you will that allows the marriage to grow. Let me explain.

When the apostle Paul was preaching and teaching the gospel to the Romans; he specifically noted this: Romans 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. . . .as it is the same in marriage. Without reconciliation, you really don't have a relationship. Why. . .because it is the giving up of one's own ways to adopt the ways of a union of one. Get it? I say this in almost all of my blogs! The Bible declares that: Matthew 19:6
Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. Mark 10:8 And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.

You see my friends, true marriages are built on not only love, real love that is... but on the ability to survive through adverse situations,the ability to weather the storms of life in your relationships, the ability to be WILLING to be reconciled when there is a leak, or a breach in your union.
Do I say that it's easy. . . .of course not, it's very hard to do that, especially once trust has been lost. . . .but here's the good part! It's what God has done for us. That's right, with all of our mess, and I do mean mess!, He's allowed us to be reconciled back to Him by his son Jesus Christ, the righteous. We all have that opportunity, no matter what we've done or where we are right now, we have that opportunity to be reconciled back to God where we take our rightful place in life and in the Kingdom. Hallelujah!
I do understand that marriages can go sower, I do understand that situations do arise that are unbearable and sometimes impossible, but I also understand that there are some things that "mankind" can't handle, and that gives God the perfect opportunity to intervene, get my drift??? Yes He cares about your situation too!

My prayer every day is for the marriages that are having difficulty to find the open door of "reconciliation". We did it and I know you can too!
Choose the path of reconciliation my dear friends; it will comfort you in more ways than you can imagine. Time to go. . . .and always remember. . .
YOU ARE BLESSED!

A Special Christmas Gift. . .

2007-12-16T05:20:00.000-08:00

So many times in ministry, we get prayer requests for all sorts of reasons. We thought that since you precious readers are so kind enough to read our segment blogs, we would like to take the time to offer one of the prayer answers that was sent to a dear sister in Christ.
We have however,taken out her name for privacy, but I believe that some of you may need the same type of prayer, or perhaps a love one, or a friend or neighbor. Nevertheless, I want you to know that Jesus didn't just preach to the people; he fed them, he taught them, and he prayed for them.
Believe it or not, married or not, God still cares about the total you! . . so here's a Christmas prayer for you or who ever will grab a hold of faith and believe God.......and I guarantee it'll make a difference. . . so here's the answer prayer we wrote:

God Bless you (put your name or love one or who ever here)

I hope that this email finds you and your family doing well. My wife has shared with me some things that seem to be going on in your body that are of concern and asked me to offer a prayer of healing and deliverance. So before I do that, I'd like you to hear this testimony of a few years back.

On a cold wintery night, my wife and I had just closed out a Revival in Philadelphia and were caught in a terrible snow storm; so bad that we were not able to leave the city and were stranded. Miraculously an elderly lady (evangelist) just happened to stop by the church and offer to put us up for the night. She lived not far away and proceeded to take us to her home. She prepared a special room for us for the night and said that she would have breakfast for us in the morning.
The next morning as she said, breakfast was prepared. I told her how Sis Scott and I really appreciated her hospitality and told her that we didn't have money to pay her, but if she had a prayer request, we would honor it. She immediately told us about her brother who lived up stairs had had the hickups for fifteen years and no doctor could cure him., so we asked if we could meet him and pray for him ; she agreed and called the brother downstairs.
We introduced ourselves as evangelist and asked if he believed in the Power of God. He nodded and agreed to a faith prayer. Even as we were talking the man was still continuing to hick up. We immediately took some regular olive oil and touched his forhead lightly and began to pray a short prayer of healing. As we lifted our hands from him, his hick up stopped. The man jumped up and began to praise God for this miracle. Amen!

I believe that God wants to do the same for you today, so as I was praying in my prayer closet,just this morning, I saw your face come before me, and I heard the Spirit say : give her this testimony and pray this prayer:

HEAVENLY FATHER, IN THE MIGHTY NAME OF JESUS, I PRAY THAT MY DEAR SIS/BRO HAS BELIEVED YOUR REPORT, AND I PRAY NOW FOR HER BODY. TOUCH RIGHT NOW THIS WOMAN IN JESUS NAME, FROM THE TOP OF HER HEAD TO THE SOUL OF HER FEET, CANCEL OUT THE LUMPS AND DESOLVE ANY INFIRMITY IN HER BODY IS MY PRAYER TODAY IN JESUS NAME.. . AND I THANK YOU AND PRAISE YOU FOR IT. . . . .AMEN!

I don't know about you, but I believe that while we were praying, God was touching your body. I praise God for that and I praise God for you.
Have a wonderful day and remember, you are blessed!
love in Christ,
Bishop Larry and Brenda Scott

Marriage. . .also a gift from God!

2007-12-16T02:44:00.000-08:00

SEASON'S GREETINGS everyone, and I pray that this holiday will be a blessed one for you all.

As we enter into this holiday and the closing of the year, let us not forget the real "reason for the season", which is God's gift to this world Christ Jesus. Although humanity has adopted the act of giving during this time, it's also important to remember that Christ's gift was not only Salvation of the soul, but He gave us "Marriage" to those who choose, and to everyone else He gave us "fellowship".

The important thing to gleam here is that our marriages are precious. You see there are some things that money can't buy; and marriage is one of them. Even the scriptures tell us: 1 Thessalonians 5:21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. . . .and if there ever was a time for us to hold fast, it's now. Hold fast meaning cherish, appreciate, never letting go, clinging to, that act of love and faith in each other, to set the world on notice, that you and your spouse have become "no more twain but one flesh" as noted in Matthews :19.

Marriage is like a season that never ends. Wow! isn't that powerful. . . and as we give of our selves to each other in the marriage bond, we become stronger together. It's the giving part that God has instructed us to do; and when we have put aside selfishness and self centeredness and realize that it's about the two of you and not just you, you then take on that attributes of our heavenly Father, giving. After all: John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

In my closing today, I am reminded of the holy scripture that reads:Matthew 13:46 Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. . . .and marriage is that one pearl. Cherish it, hold to it, thank God for it, and appreciate it.
Marriage God's way will make all your Christmas' be bright!
Have a Happy Holiday and remember:

YOU ARE BLESSED!

When will we ever learn. . . .?

2007-12-11T04:03:00.001-08:00

Hello again readers. After glancing through the newspapers and watching the news, I am saddened to read of so many women's children are being molested by men, just because they "needed someone".

Listen ladies,I am truly an advocate of marriage, but not to the extent of endangering your life and the lives of your children. That's crazy!

Truly the scriptures say: 1 Corinthians 7:9 But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. . . . . and if you think you have found someone who is willing to make that commitment; then get married; but to just to have a partner to fulfill some lonely feeling or just to have sex, I tell you, it's no good. There is a better way.
With all types of perverted lust spirits in the air, you need to know who you are bringing into your home, especially if you have children.
That's right my dear hearts, even in the old biblical days there were perverted lust demons and spirits. So much so until they even attempted to have sex with angels.
Now if these spirits had no respect or regard for heavenly beings, do you think for one minute that they will regard your innocent child?
It's not a trade off. You need to know about these things. Stop telling your self that you are desperate and so alone that you can't help it. That's not true. It is a trick of the devil, whether you believe it or not.Don't get caught up in a relationship that is going no where just for the thrill.
You can be single God's way as well as married God's way! He is able to sustain you in either situation.
Let your inner man instruct you, not your emotions. They can deceive you. The scriptures tell us: Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Remember this: you are loved by God always; and there is that some one who will also love you, the right way. Bed partners are a dime a dozen, but a real love mate awaits you with a commitment for life.

Don't get caught up in the "lonely hearts club". It's really for suckers, and besides it only leads to perversion and many times unnecessary murders.
So if you think this is a joke, read the newspapers. It's for real.
A WORD TO THE WISE IS SUFFICIENT!

God Bless you and be sure to have a wonderful day, and remember:

YOU ARE BLESSED!

We Are Blessed!

2007-12-09T04:03:00.000-08:00

Hi there readers! SOMETIMES we need to take retrospect and look back at our marriages and our lives, just to see how blessed we really are: it bears repeating!. . . . .we are Blessed!

It all happened one summer in the metropolous area of Philadelphia. This man and wife along with four small children lived in a rented row house in a very poor neighborhood.
In those days, mothers actually stayed at home to raise the children, while the father worked sometimes two jobs to make sure that the family could eat. Only this particular summer was very different. The father lost his job and was not able to find work for three months. Obviously money had run out and they were getting desperate and was forced to seek for outside help. Unfortunately, family wasn't able to help and they had only acquaintances not friends.
Finally, their back was against the wall. They had no other alternative but to apply for public assistance.
To their surprise, a letter came to their door from the Assistance Office to inform them that they had been turned down for public assistance. With no where to turn, together, they stood their ground on the fact that their marriage was ordained by God and if in fact it was, they knew that God would never leave them , nor forsake them.. . . Hebrews 13:5 By the end of August, the 28th in fact, ( it was the father's birthday). They had completely run out of provision for the family and the only thing left was a bottle of water and one small box of macaroni.
The father then immediately called a family forum. He apologized to the children for not having any food to eat and showed them the one box of macaroni and said to his wife and children: " I still don't believe that God has forsaken us, so I refuse to charge God foolishly; so we will go to bed tonight hungry and eat our last box of macaroni tomorrow and then die. Of course with great confidence in their parents, the children ran off to play. The husband and wife retired to the bedroom and began to pray. The husband assured his wife that God sees our children and will not let them starve.
Approximately one half hour later, all four of the children came running and rejoicing saying: Look! look!. They had found 8 pennies. Immediately they all starting rejoicing as the husband declared: you see, God's not going to see the children go to bed hungry. The father then instructed the children to go to the corner store to purchase some cookies and divide them among themselves. Afterwards, the married couple remained in their bedroom rejoicing for the kids. Another half hour transpired, and suddenly the children came running and screaming. At first, the parents thought that one of the children had gotten hurt, only to find out that they had found more pennies, this time, even more, $0.11 cents.
Standing on not what they could see, but what they believed, the story continues. . . .
Needless to say the father once again instructed the children to go back to the corner store and get more cookies and perhaps even some candy. The two parents remained in their bedroom rejoicing. One more half hour transpired and once again the four children were back, this time dancing and rejoicing. You see they really never left the house. Instead they all played happily and contently in their living room. This time however, when the children presented what they had found ( in the house), they handed the parents (9) brand new $50.00 bills, totaling $450.00. Praise God! Halleluah! Yes, that's right, it was a miracle. The Lord had heard their cry and answered their call. It was their faith!
Of course the message is : Matthew 19:26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. Yes, the faith to take God at his word, for you, for your situation, for your family and finally, for your marriage. Marriage God's Way is really the only real way to bring fulfilment and the kind of miraculous results that you have just read about. There are many things we can change and do for our marriages, and we should do them., but there are some things we cannot change and some things we just cannot do. That's where God steps in to complete the task. Victory belongs to the believer! Amen!
Now I guess you're wondering why I am so inspired to tell you this story again, and why it is so urgent to stress to you the importance of having faith in God for your marriages. Well, simply because it works!. . .I know, because the father in that story was me! . . . .and I looked around and found out that:
WE ARE BLESSED!

What if I choose not to get married?

2007-12-03T03:42:00.000-08:00

In today's segment, we discuss those who prefer not to marry. It's certainly not uncommon. However, it does create more challenges than most life styles. Let's see how the Holy scriptures sees it.1 Corinthians 6:18-20 & 1 Corinthians 7:1-2
"Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.". . . still, we have the choice of not joining with the opposite sex, for reason that you have a right to stand on.
Nevertheless, it presents such an enormous challenge, simply because we creations of interaction. We are made to interact, to fellowship, to associate; and ultimately, we are accountable for our own actions, first to ourselves, and then to God!
Believe me dear hearts, after seeing so many injustices in life; men not taking care of there responsibilities, wife abuse, child melestation, cheating husbands and wifes,marriages gone sower, and many other reasons that warrant you staying single, I understand! but please keep this in mind: Romans 14:22 Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.
The choice of course is still yours. Can you still be happy? Of course you can. Inevitability has a way of finding us all; so life is good, and so is God!

So be of good cheer, my single readers, it's all in the game called life!

If that day would ever come that you embark upon marriage however, embrace it! It will open a new door for you that could not even imagine.
God Bless you and have a wonderful and prosperous day. . . .and remember:

YOU ARE BLESSED!

Marriage. . . .A good thing!

2007-12-03T03:13:00.000-08:00

Yes my dear readers, marriage is a good thing. Today's segment shows us the fruits of it's existance.
Although marriages today are challenged by many outside forces, even to include perversion, through to power of the Holy scriptures, it stands alone in it's triumph.

Even scripture depicts a "good thing" when referring to a man choosing a mate. Proverbs 18:22 Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD. why is that so important? Because when two, male and female become "one" as the scripture suggest, they together reflect or mirror God's plan for mankind. Don't be surprised, it's Bible.
That's right my friend, it is God's will that we become one with Him.
Marriages with God become stronger, marriages with out God end up many times very tragically; and ultamately divorce!
Like it or not, it's marriage God's way or nothing.

Listen to this scripture: Matthew 22:21 They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.

Don't you see, marriage is not a man-made thing, it's a God thing. That's why throughout the scriptures, He leaves instructions.God already knew that marriages would face many challenges and obstacles through life; so He left us a guideline, a roadmap if you will, to make sure that we would be able to handle this awesome task called marriage. . . . . so He gave us a prerequisite . . Mark 10:8 And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.
Matthew 19:6
Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

Marriage is a "good thing", it's a blessed way,it's a happy way,and of course, it's God's way.
To those who are married, have a wonderful marriage and always remember:
YOU ARE BLESSED!

NOTE: Be sure to follow our next segment where we will talk about those who choose not to marry. It's a good one! Be Blessed!

Is it Love. . .or just will-power?

2007-12-03T00:52:00.000-08:00

"TO THINE OWN SELF BE TRUE". . .I'm sure you've heard that saying before. Well, my friends, in today's segment, we explore "the reason for the season" if you will.

Often in our walk through life and in our marriages, we as humans are capable through desire and persistance, to acquire or accomplish things we have pursued. Is it a good thing? Of course it is; however, in marriage, it's only good if the element of Love is present.
Genesis 2:18 And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.
You see, only during creation were things set in order. After that, God gives every individual free choice.(THE ABILITY TO DO WHAT YOU THINK IS RIGHT)

Interestingly enough, "will-power" is simply an individual doing what they will or can, ( NOTE:NO MOTIVE NEEDED.) On the other hand Love is a motivation that causes an action. Such a thin line between the two.
Sadly enough, many marriage exist on just will-power alone, but it's really not enough.Why? . . .because will-power can run out, given the right timing, the right place, and the right opportunity, everything can change.
There is no drastic change or variance in Love. Listen to the scriptures:
1 Corinthians 13:8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

Let's be real about the matter; when your relationship is soley based on will-power, there is no reason to sustain it and when certain pressures arise, it is an easy escape to just quit! Listen closely to what we are saying here.
Your sucess and happiness are on the line here. Take a good look in the mirror and tell yourself what you see.
On the other hand, Love is the key. Yes, my dear friends, Love will out weigh any storm of life, or any rocky relationship. Love makes the real difference, and besides, it makes you ONE!Trust me on this one, will-power eventually runs out. . .then what? Think about that!
Love of course will stand the test. Now where does it come from. . .you guessed it. . . it comes from God.
"to thine own self be true" kind of make you the judge eh? Love or will-power. . .what do the scales say for your marriage?
This is your day to be free. . .take advantage of it and always remember. . . .
YOU ARE BLESSED!

Resolution or Resurrection. . .

2007-11-30T09:47:00.000-08:00

In this week's segments and as the year comes to a close, it's important to focus on where your life and marriage is heading. Resolution or Resurrection is the choice that is set before us today.

Typically, we all tend to decide on resolutions for the upcoming year, to of course do better, and possibly change some things. However, it is vital for us who are married to press much further than a resolution, which in many cases aren't adhered to any way.
Resurrection on the other hand carries an authority and a new birth if you will, for the days ahead. Our marriage barometers should be set on a much closer walk with each other. Yes, even more intimate times together and fellowship along with communication.
When the apostle Paul was admonishing the church become familiar with their ministry partners, he wrote: 1 Thessalonians 5:12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you.
It's so important to know each other, not outside of, but inside your relationship!
What does that mean? I'm glad you asked!
Knowing your spouse inside your relationship takes the "unknown" out of your relationship. That's right! Did you know that 70% of divorces are due to a lack of communication between the two parties. They really didn't communicate, inside the relationship; subsequently, it left room for doubt, trust, and the fear of "what if".
You see precious readers, longevity is actually based on the quality of your foundation. Listen to this scripture: Luke 6:48 He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.
what is the foundation of your marriage built on? . . .money . . .automobiles. . .houses. . .sex. . prestige. . .pride. Something to really think about eh!
Resurrection means to bring back to life. No doubt you may have had some rough times in 2007, but it does not eliminate the ability to resurrect you marriage relationship. In fact, resurrecting you marriage will teach you new ways to fall in love all over again.
It's time for resurrections not resolutions. . .decide before the year is out, that you're in it for the long haul. . . resurrect your marriage relationship; it's Godly, it's even heavenly, and besides, it's the right thing to do because it's Marriage God's Way! I'm praying that those who will read this message will be inspired to take a firm step to resurrect your marriage relationship.
May God richly Bless you during this holiday season and always remember . . . .
YOU ARE BLESSED!

GIVING THANKS. . . .

2007-11-22T03:22:00.001-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING MY DEAR READERS.
Giving thanks is one of the most important aspects of your marriage; and more importantly, for life period. It cost you nothing, and the reward of it is so much greater.

Giving thanks for the things you have accomplished together. Giving thanks for just having each other to lean on. Giving thanks for the love you share,for the experiences you go through, for the commitment you both carry.

Giving thanks for the opportunity to make things a little better. Giving thanks for what you already have, and then giving thanks for what's coming your way.

That's right my friends, it's giving thanks that take you further. The Holy scriptures even tell us when the master was about to reward the servant: Matthew 25:23 His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

You see, it's not multitude blessings, it's the magnitude. Don't you get it? It's not how much, it's being thankful for what you do have! That's the key!

You see, being thankful is a vital part of progress; in life, and most of all it's and important part of the marriage bond.

I am even thankful that many of you even take the time to read my marriage insights. Therefore, I am thankful and grateful to God that He has allowed me the opportunity to share these truths with you the readers.

Today is a day set aside for all men to take retrospect of life; and fruit of that observation should be a thankful heart and mind set of gratitude, that you and your spouse have come this far together.

Believe it or not, it means an awful lot to God, when you are thankful. The feeling of satisfaction when someone says "thank you" is the same feeling that our Heavenly Father feels.

Try taking time out during the course of your festive day to give thanks. It'll make a world of difference for your relationship and will energize the atmosphere of your household.

In my close today, I say thanks be to God for His goodness and mercy, and to you the readers I also say Thank You! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and always remember:

You are Blessed!

From whence thou has come. . . .

2007-11-15T03:01:00.000-08:00

In today's segment, there is a message as well as a lesson that we all must learn; and that is: remembering from whence thou has come. . .

It is to me so surprising whenever I counsel married couples, or just talk to individuals one on one, how we seem to forget so easily the road that brought us to the place where we are today.
By that I mean that we have not taken into consideration the fact that God's word is true whether you accept it or not. Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

You see my dear readers, things don't just happen. They are designed for purpose. Sound strange? Well it's not. Even in your marriages, your coming together, your meeting, and ultimately your marriage, all has purpose.
The rough times, the hard times, the good times, they all had purpose. Listen to this scripture and see if you can find your name mentioned. (of course not literally)
Ephesians 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
The key word here was "all"

As you can see my friends, you are included as we all are. It is the plan of God that we understand our way of life and not just stumble through it. In our marriages, it's the same way. We shouldn't just stumble through it, but rather realize "from whence thou has come" which then allows us to see clearly the path set before us.

Attitude. . . .that's right attitude means everything. The way you approach not only situations in your marriage, but life in general, has everything to do with the outcome. Realizing what brought you to the place that you are determines the level that you will operate on when facing more difficult challenges in your marriages or otherwise.

So.....what are we saying here today?.. . . remembering where and what you have experienced helps your marriages, believe it or not. Some times it's not the big things, but the little things that we overlook or forget, that really helps us not only in our marriages, but in life period.
Humility travels much further than arrogance. It also teaches you how to get along in your marriages rather than just go along.. . .so remember from whence thou has come. . . . .the future of your marriage depends on it. It will bless you and your children's children. It's food for thought and the soul!

Have a wonderful day and always remember. . . . .YOU ARE BLESSED!

From the Heart. . . .

2007-11-08T19:57:00.000-08:00

DEDICATED TO MY DEAR DAUGHTER-IN-LAW, SANDRA!

In today's segment, if you permit me, we will steer just a little away from the norm to discuss some issues of life that concern us all.
It's called: From the Heart. . . . As we all venture through life, we adopt relationships that are binding and penitrating. Especially those relationships of family and (real friends).

We sometimes forget that these people have attached themselves to us without intention. It's called Love!

We develop a "love" for those individuals as it becomes a part of our own makeup and personality. We conduct ourselves a certain way around those people and ready at an instant, to come to their aid.
At times we don't always vocalize our appreciation and admiration for these individuals but some how they know and feel that special relationship; and know that that relationship is pulsating whether visable or not. It's love from the heart.

There however will come a time for all things to cease. Some times our relationships are impacted by departure.
The scriptures say: Romans 8:37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. . . .and we are, only because our love comes from the heart.

You see my precious readers, everything has a season: a time to live, and a time to die. A time for joy and a time for sadness; nevertheless what we hold dear to us are only those things of the heart. Those things we never loose.
Many times we act incorrectly to situations only because we don't understand them.

1 Corinthians 13:12
For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
As we are enlightened in our knowledge and understanding, our responses to life's impacts automatically change, thus we find closure with the assurance that only the tangable is gone; but the things of the heart remain.

In sickness, in death, in sorrow, in shame, in departure, in distance; can never match the things of the Heart!
So be of good cheer, and be encouraged knowing that there are some things that can never be taken away from you . . . . things from the Heart!

God Bless you today and always remember. . . . .YOU ARE BLESSED

Is Compromise acceptable in Marriage?

2007-11-01T03:37:00.000-07:00

Welcome dear readers. Today's segment deals with "Compromise".
Is compromise acceptable in marriage? First, let's take a good look at the word "compromise". Does it mean to give in; or just come to acceptable terms.

Well my dear friends, compromise is a literal agreement, be it in writing or verbal. It is the mutual consent from both parties; since we are dealing with marriages, it is consent from both husband and wife.

Now, what exactly are we compromising here? Principles, relationship, or just situations that warrant an adjustment. Of course, in the marital world, we are putting the emphasis on relationships. That's really where the meat of your entire marriage experience lays. It is the heart beat, if you will, of your marriage.

Now.......should we compromise our relationships. The Holy scriptures say ONLY IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES THAT DEAL WITH SPIRITUAL THINGS. Check it out:
1 Corinthians 7:4
The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife. ...what do you think that actually means? It is the binding covenant that was made between the two parties at the inception of the marriage relationship. In other words, there should be NO compromise accept by consent. (for a legitimate reason)

Marriages that are not committed to that covenant of vows are usually always in compromise. Getting by with what you can is not the "life time commitment" you vowed at your wedding ceremony. Compromising relationships tend to end up in the divorce courts simply because there are no set lines to cross; and let's face it, the human instinct is adventurous unless prohibited by a standard, or a guideline, moral or otherwise. Remember the old saying: IF YOU DON'T STAND FOR SOMETHING, YOU'LL FALL FOR ANY THING.
Marriage is that institution with a set of principles, commitments, guidelines,standards and above all a covenant bond. Anything short of that is a compromise and should never be classified as a marriage.
Kind of strong?. . . . well marriage is strong, that is, if it is approached and executed in the way that God hath set forth. Yes, my friends, marriage is the beautiful world of "no compromise", but rather an everlasting love relationship bond.
When you decide to step up to the plate in marriage, you will find out that this life time experience is one of life-fulfilling moments that can only be appreciated by those who have committed themselves to each other.. . . and please.....what ever you do, don't leave The Lord out of your marriages.

God Loves you and so do we. Have a wonderful day and enjoy your marriages.

Yes my friends.........You are Blessed!

Satisfaction Guaranteed. . .

2007-11-01T02:53:00.000-07:00

Matthew 24:38
For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark,
Hello again readers. Well as you can see in the above scripture, although this dynamic book written over 2000 years ago, seems to depict times of today.

We appear to be doing a lot of that lately; marring, divorce, marring, divorce, and etc.
Now common sense tells me that when you make a purchase at a merchant, and you are not satisfied with the product, you return it and try something else. Well, doesn't it seem to you that in today's society, we are doing just that with marriages?

Is not marriage "satisfaction guaranteed" ?. . . or have we steered so far away from Godly principles that we can't recognize it. Listen to the scriptures:
2 Timothy 3 1This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3Without natural affection, truce breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4Traitors, heady, high minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 6For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, 7Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. . . . .all which leads to reason why people don't want to talk about God, just relationship, (not marriage even), just relationship. Boy. . . have we missed the marked.
How on earth can you expect to be blessed without the Blessor???

Satisfaction guaranteed is the result of that relationship in marriage, that has submitted themselves to each other as well as following the guidelines set forth in God's Holy word. Like it or not, you can't get past God's measurement of satisfaction.
The truth here today is this: People do just what they want and are entitled to; however; there are also those that in their heart want a marriage relationship that is full of love, joy, peace, contentment, and most of all satisfaction. Those are the ones that I am directing this blog to.

It is God's will and plan that your marriages flourish like the noon day sun and that you heart be filled with the excitement of love.. . . .and it works. . .for those who will just follow God's blueprint.
It's fun, it's laughter, it's joyful, it's love, it's contentment, it's all of those things and more when you take Marriage God's Way. . . . .. and besides. . . .it's
SATISFACTION GUARANTEED!

GOD BLESS YOU TODAY. . . . and always remember. . . . YOU ARE BLESSED!
BE SURE TO VIST OUR NEXT BLOG: SUBJECT: IS "COMPROMISE ACCEPTABLE IN MARRIAGE"

The Arrangement. . .

2007-10-27T04:03:00.001-07:00

Today we are discussing "The Arrangement". I have called it the arrangement because it is just that. Many of our marriages today have domiciled it's self in an arrangement that is always subject to change.

Often our failures in marriage are due to this arrangement not really entering into a covenant bond like we are suppose to;(in marriages) and sadly enough, our marriage relationship can go sour.
One will ask, what's the difference, isn't a marriage an arrangement. Absolutely not!
It's a play on words just like a metaphor, but it doesn't mean the same thing. Remember, words are very important and can be binding and life changing. Think that's powerful? Well it is.
Just think of the two little words, "I Do". They lock you into a contract that it takes legal representation to undo. Think about it!

So words do matter, just like the word arrangement. Arrangements can change based on circumstances. Where covenants don't ever change, because the standards don't ever change. Example: does your love for someone change because they grow taller? Of course not. Neither does the life commitment of the marriage bond change, that is if you enter into a covenant and not an arrangement. Are you getting the point?

Marriage is a life style designed for those who will submit to a covenant between the two parties. Not by force or circumstances, but by love. Not sex, lust, convenience,pregnancies,fear,money, or anything outside of the criteria of Holy matrimony. It is a selection by choice. An inspired decision if you will, along with a heart-felt desire to forever love as one.

You see my dear friends, marriage really is for those who are not afraid of making a total commitment. Anything Short of that, I believe you should wait.
On the other hand, if an arrangement is all you are looking for, it's best not to get married. Let your conscience be your guide in your own convictions.

The great thing about life is this: God gives every individual an ability to choose what's right and what's wrong; and beside, the results always tell the real truth anyway. So take time to analyze your own actions. That way you don't have to feel like you're being judged.

Relationship covenant or arrangement; you be the judge. Place your marriages in the balances of truth. It will help you. Remember, no one is perfect, only God, but we all can benefit from error, once we acknowledge the truth.
Turn your marriage into an everlasting covenant, after all. . . it's all up to you!
Be Blessed and have prosperous day. . . .you deserve it!

The Sucess of Marriage!

2007-10-26T03:12:00.000-07:00

In today's segment, we discover the real barometers of sucess in your marriages.

Even in today's society, most people are placed in catagories based on their material possessions. How far off the mark you are.
In marriages, it's the same. The four bedroom house, two car garage, swiming pool, and the works.
Well, the truth of the matter is this: many marriages today have all that and more and yet there is still unhappiness, no fulfillment, and most of all no love. What does that tell you?
Have we used the wrong measurements to fulfill our life's dream?
Let's look at the Holy scriptures, it might surprise you: Luke 12:15 And said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. . . .as you can see, we have compared the wrong things to the sucess of marriage.

My dear friends, one thing is certain; real marriage cannot be mimicked, it must posess real substance. Other wise, you end up like everyone else, after the thrill is gone, you seek for something different.
As hard as it may sound, it's a fact. The sucess of your marriages depends soley on how well we adhere to God's outline for marriages. Whether you accept it or not, truth is the only thing that brings sucess; (lasting sucess that is). Just look at the results and you'll see what I mean.

How can two be joined together for 5, 10, 15 years, and sometimes longer, and then just fall out of love? There's definately something wrong with that picture.

In every aspect of life, there will be challenges. Some more difficult than others, but the endurance factor is based on the founded essence of your relationship. In other words: what was it based on? Just tradition, lust, convenience,circumstance,greed, coveteousness, or was it based on what God has established in His Holy Word. Is your marriage sucessful because you have a new car, a little money in the bank, new home? No my friends, those are all the wrong reasons.
Don't get me wrong, I believe that everyone should pursue the finest material things of life too, but it should never be a substitute for sucess in your marital relationship.

Case and point: the sucess of your marriages stems out of your convenant relationship, which is your life-time comittment that you made before God and friends, family, etc. It's when your marriage can stand up against the test and challenges of life and still produce the same passion and comittment and love from inception. Why not take retrospect of your own relationship. The answers are as clear as the heavens.
A pretty car with all the trimmings and has no battery is "Worthless". . . as a marriagge without it's real sucess. . . .think about it!

Have a wonderful day....and always remember : You are Blessed!

In God we Trust....all others pay Cash!

2007-10-19T20:26:00.000-07:00

Just a little humor. . . Hello there my precious readers. We have now returned from the Florida coasts and back with more inspirational marriage insights just for you.

In today's segment, our title is really referring to your acts of commitment in your marriages. What I mean by that is this:
Marriage is more than just saying the words: "I do". Behind those words comes a commitment of action. A commitment of true and real love. A commitment of sacrifice and patience. The action of endurance, long suffering and faith.
One will ask: why is there suffering in a marriage? The truth of the matter is, you're not really suffering; you are actually choosing to exchange your old life (single) to your new life of marriage. (no more twain but one flesh). It is much like inviting Christ into your life: 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
You see, when you have accepted Christ into your life, it is because you have invited Him, it was a choice. The same in marriage, it is a choice. . . .your choice.
God has never forced His way or will on any man or woman.

Hebrews 8:10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: . . . so as you can see my dear friends, it is so important to learn the ways of the Lord for marriage so that your lives and marriages are no longer a task but a revelation; and through His mighty spirit, we then become the creations that we were intended to be. Yes, marriage is a spiritual thing. It's not a corporation nor an organization; it's a life style ordained and sanctioned by God.
In God we trust. That's your assurance that your paths will be directed. "Others pay cash. . . .well you're not really paying for it, you are revealing through your obedience of God's instructions, a union of matrimony untainted by tradition and society. You then represent an entity of "oneness" designed to testify to the world a committed fellowship. . . . it's called marriage.
Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed? . . .of course not. The price you pay is your commitment, that's real marriage.
What's the message here?. . . Trust in God and pay the price of commitment to each other. The fruits of that union will generate peace, love , long suffering, gentleness, kindness, meekness, joy, and contentment.
Who do you trust in . . . .and are you willing to commit? It's time now for you to decide. After all, it is your marriage!
So. . . .Have wonderful day and always remember: YOU ARE BLESSED!

A Marriage Moment. . . .

2007-10-11T02:29:00.000-07:00

God Bless you my precious readers. One day left before our trip to the Floridian borders.
I just wanted to leave a short message of encouragement to the marriages.

It is God's will that you break through the barriers of tradition and soar into the environment of victory, faith, and love.

Ephesians 1:17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:

How important it is that we lay hold on the life changing Word of God for our marriages.
There is definitely a shift in the times, as God raises up His people and puts them in their rightful place in the Kingdom; to bring salvation, deliverance, restoration, and the authority of "oneness" back into your marriages.

As I close today, I leave you with this thought: God is already in tomorrow . . . our responsibility is to get in God!. . . . .then shall your marriages spring forth once again and no power on earth will be able to quench that fire of love. Yes. . .YOU HAVE THE VICTORY. . . . AMEN

Always remember . . . . You are Blessed!

Marriage on the move. . . . .

2007-10-10T04:02:00.000-07:00

God Bless you my dear readers!

There is exciting news coming down the pike for

"Marriage God's Way Ministry".Marriage God's Way will soon be domiciled in Philadelphia, Pa. set up as a revival center. Hallelujah!!

In addition, first of the year we will be streaming our marriage conferences on the Internet. Also, be sure to look for announcements for upcoming conferences coming to your area!
My new marriage booklets will be on sale on my website and many other exciting offers.
This week my wife and I will be in the Florida area and will return on the 22nd.
So don't be discouraged, because we are coming right back with more marital insights for Marriage God's Way.

Many of the readers have been sceptical about using the Internet for donations; so we are setting up a P.O. Box for your letters, questions, testimonies, and donations. I'm so excited that it can't come soon enough. So. . . get ready. . . get ready!
Marriage God's Way is coming your way!

Until next week, remember:
You Are Blessed!

The Conference. . . .Part II

2007-10-09T03:02:00.000-07:00

God Bless you readers! Yesterday, we shared a portion of the transcript of the Marriage Conference. Incidentally, it will be aired on national TV this Sunday,October 14th at 3:am EST for those of you that are early birds.
Nevertheless, here is the continuation of : The Conference: Enjoy!

The Bible says:Ecclesiastes 1:9 The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun. Christians are doing the opposite of what God's Word says to do. Ephesians 5:25 (Whole Chapter)
Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
Husbands love your wives as Christ loved the church is a pretty strong message!
Ephesians 5:22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
There would be a lot less confusion if the man were allowed to be the man of the house instead of one of the children. Some wives holler at the husband more that the children. . . .and that's not right!
Husbands. . . .start helping the wife around the house, run the sweeper, wash the dishes, help wash the clothes, take your wife to diner. Take a walk in the park and hold hands like you used to. It's not always about sex, it's the simple things that really count. The Bible teaches us:Ephesians 5:22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. . . .meaning that the little things really make the difference.
Think on the good things as to how you fell in love.
Wives, have a nice hot meal for your husband. Help wash the car, go to a sport event with him, do some of the things that he likes. Cancel that shopping trip to the Mall and enjoy your husband for a change. Put those children to bed at a decent hour and relax with your spouse. Rekindle that flame that has burned out!
For those of you whose spouses are not saved, remember this: you chose him or her and knew all about thembefore marriage. It wasn't a problem then, and shouldn't be a problem not. Live the life in front of them. Don't refer to them as devils and remember this: 1 Corinthians 7:14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy.
Take ALL of your issues to God in faith believing that He will show you the solutions!
God Bless and Keep you all and Thank You!.................AMEN!

THE CONFERENCE. . . .PART I

2007-10-08T08:05:00.001-07:00

Hi my dear readers. Today's segment is just a transcript of the Philadelphia conference I told you about in my last blog. It covers a few of the topics we talked about.
It's rather lengthy, so I'm doing it in two parts. . . . .Enjoy! and always remember, You are Blessed!

I LOVE MY WIFE DAY CONFERENCE
PRESENTS:
MARRIAGE GOD’S WAY MINITRIES

TOPIC: LORD REVIVE US ONCE AGAIN

Psalm 85:6
Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?
Psalm 138:7
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me.

We would like to take this time to thank each and every one of you for coming to the I Love My Wife day conference.
This is a very special day that should be celebrated all over the world. We know that there is Valentines Day, but it has seemed to have lost it’s meaning.
So many times we go through our every day life forgetting to tell each other that we love you. That is a very special and anointed word that can keep the enemy from attacking our marriages. We would like for each of you here to stop for a moment to reflect back on when you first met. Close your eyes, and begin to remember the night you couldn’t wait for the phone to ring or the knock on the door.
Remember the special dates of going to diner, the movies, taking a walk, or holding hands?
The more you saw each other, the more inseparable you became. One day you realized you were in love. You got married, the children came ,the bills, the hard times, the struggles and the fights.
For some separation, and others divorce. No one seemed to recognize your struggle or offer any help. Many have married for the wrong reasons. . . . . Outward appearance, good job, fine car, money, a way out of parents home, lust, good looks, and many other enticements that should not have been the real reason for marriage.
Some marriages are holding on only by a thread, in church or out. And all you need is that thread to snap and it’s all over.

Then you begin to look for other ways to fill the void you now have. Other woman, other men, a friendly relationship with a co-worker, or just seeking outside satisfaction.
The next thing that arises is the enemy speaks to your mind and tells you that you don’t have to deal with it any more.
You now sleep in separate rooms, you do not spend time with each other, and nothing is ever right that your mate does.
There is no more trust,
Statistics have shown that Church marriage have the highest rate of divorce in this country. How can you say that you Love God and you can’t even love your spouse. Then comes that statement . . . . .”you just don’t know what I’ve been through"
. . . . .to be continued!

The Common Denominator. . . .

2007-10-01T02:42:00.000-07:00

In today's segment, the common denominator in marriages is discussed.

"The Common Denominator", what is it? Why are marriages today in so much jeopardy? Why don't couples stay together after making a commitment to each other? Why has the enthusiasm of love dwindled in marriages?

The answers to these questions are most difficult, and there can only be one answer. . . there is a missing link in our relationships.and it points directly to the "common denominator".

In mathematical terms, the common denominator is the number that allows everything to become a part of the equation. Puzzled? . . . . don't be, I was never a math whiz either, so let's try and explore this matter further in more simpler terms.

The scriptures say this: 1 John 3:20 For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. . . .so is it a matter of the heart? Did we mean what we said when we said it? Was our intention pure and true before we committed to the marriage union?

The truth of the matter is this: the common denominator in any marriage relationship is the willingness to commit and to submit to a higher authority ( God the Father) and to each other (your spouse) as outlined in the scriptures in:
Genesis 2:24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. Even though we says things with our lips, the reality is not present until the action takes place. Matthew 15:8 This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. As you can see in the passage above, Jesus rebuking the scribes and pharisees for their pretense type worship. You see it's one thing to say a thing, but it's another to do it. The doing is only easy and effortless when it is done with the right motive and intent. For it is the common denominator of marriage! Difficulty is only present when the intent of desire is not present. Truth and Falsehood cannot stand on the same platform! I hope you're catching on here.

The common denominator is your real motive. It identifies who you really are and determines the results of your decisions.

Sometimes, we need to take retrospect and ask ourselves these questions. How is my love or lack of, different now than from the beginning of our relationship? Am I the same person now that I was when I first married? Was I really honest with my mate? You see, when we turn the mirror of life and reality toward ourselves, we see much clearer and are able to make sounder decisions. If you say "I'm going to", but never do, the event never takes place! Get it?

The real point today is this: the common denominator is the key. It unlocks the door of reality in our marriages. The Holy scriptures gives us our blue prints, and we in turn execute the plans.

It is God's plan and His will, that our marriages be complete and fulfilled with love, joy, peace, happiness and contentment.

Let's take a look back at our commitments and examine our intents. I believe that you will find a new strength and enthusiasm to start a new day for your marriages. In fact I believe God, and so should you! It is the common denominator that will make the difference for you. . . you'll see!

God says it. . . . .let's believe it . . . . and get the job done! Amen!

Have a sparkling day and always remember. . . . .

You are Blessed!

Take Five. . . .

2007-09-27T02:24:00.000-07:00

Marriage is sometimes tedious with it's constant responsibilities and every day schedules; and at times it gets a little overwhelming.

That's why in today's segment we will try to lighten that burden a little with a suggestion of "Take Five".

Take five, derives from an old expression which actually means to relax or take a break from the everyday rat race.

Even after six days of miraculous creation, the Lord took a rest. Genesis 2:2 And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.
What's important here is that sometimes you need balance in your life and especially in your marriage relationships. With the day to day responsibilities of homes, children, work, church, and all of the other outside activities you include in you life styles, you still need to "take five".

King Solomon puts it this way: Ecclesiastes 2:24 There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God; while Paul in the book of Romans explains it this way: Romans 14:22 Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.

In other words, it's alright to "take five", or take some time for your self. You need a break!

Now of course here's the key for the marriages. Whatever you decide or whenever you have decided to "take five", Take it together! How very important that is.

Finding that enjoyable moment together is the mystery of "oneness" and it is the bond that keeps your marriage relationships healthy. The relief of taking five is many times the solution to depression, anxiety, boredom, and many other negative moods that can cause friction and discontent in a marriage relationship.

Don't allow religious fanatics to tell you that you can't have fun. It's not scriptural and God never said it. Examine the scriptures for your self, and you'll find that it is God's will for you to be happy, healthy, provided for, and to prosper.
3 John 1:2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.

Having a little fun does not take away from your relationship with God! It helps to give you a clear and sober mindset to understand the balance of life, both in heaven and on earth.

So when you're feeling a little pressured, maybe it's time to "take five". Your marriage will sparkle!

God Bless you and keep you today, and as always. . . . . remember:

You are Blessed!

What Do You Do? ? ?

2007-09-25T04:23:00.001-07:00

A very interesting topic today, simply because it deals with situations that are very rarely discussed accross the sacred desk.

In today's segment, we will attempt to offer solutions for these "unmentionables".

Many times, those of us who are or have been in some type of authoritative position, such as Pastors, Evangelist, Bishops, Elders, Deacons, and just in general, those that are constantly visible to the public; have at one time or another had issues in our relationships that we dare not make public. In most cases, it's because we fear loosing the confidence and respect of the lay people that look up to us. In other words, the folks at the top have problems too! So. . . . . ."What do you do". . . . .when there is an issue with you? God forbid if we share it with another person in fear that the shocking news will leak out.

What do you do. . . . .when the leader has an infidelity problem. . . . .what do you do when lust seems to keep cropping up in the preacher. . . . .what do you do when the Evangelist's wife is unfaithful. . . . .what do you do when the Bishop has a gambling problem. . . . .what do you do. . . when the pastor just can't stop drinking. . . . . .what do you do when the Elder is sexually aroused by women other than his wife or vice-versa. . . . .WHAT DO YOU DO???

It's obvious that these are serious issues and have need of resolution.

Let's take a look into the scriptures. . . . Romans 7:23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

In fact, this same attack has trickled down into the marriages of today and caused a great calamity. The fear of destroying your marriages but yet still living with these issues is serious.

Well my friends it's not over until God says it's over! This fierce attack in the "flesh" has always been present, and now has surfaced even more today. 1 John 2:16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. Galatians 5:17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. . . . . and it is Satan's desire to keep these things hidden or covered up as long as possible. Never think that God doesn't know and care that these things are happening to you!

Nevertheless, there is still GOOD NEWS. . . . . .in spite of the enemy. . . . . WE'VE GOT THE VICTORY! That's right, God will never allow you to be put in positions where there is no escape. . . . 1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. Yes my dear readers. . . . . .your marriages are secure. . . . .Pastors, teachers, bishops, leaders,. . . . . God has made an escape for you!

You see, it's all in the Word of God and it is activated by your FAITH.

How bad do you want relief? It's simple. . . . .put your trust in the Almighty God who made the heavens and the earth. He has the power through His Word to change the course of events, to break the chains and fetters, and deliver you and to present you as pure Gold!

Hallelujah!

Let's all stand on God's word today. . . . .and really make a difference in our marriages and our lives.

FATHER, I PRAY FOR THE READERS OF THIS BLOG TODAY. THAT YOUR POWER AND YOUR ANOINTING WILL TRANSFORM FOR THESE WORDS TO THOSE THAT DESIRE CHANGE. HEAL . . .DELIVER . . . . AND SET FREE TODAY , YOUR PEOPLE IS MY PRAYER IN JESUS NAME. . . . . . AMEN!

Well my friends, I believe it and now it's time for you to receive it. God Bless , and always remember. . . . . .You Are Blessed

Money won't change me. . . or will it?

2007-09-24T01:00:00.000-07:00

The late R&B singer and writer, James Brown wrote this song in the early 70's. . . . ."money won't change me". The real question today is . . . . .will money change you? What about your relationship and your marriage?

In today's segment,we'll look at a couple of scriptures that just might give us some insight on this "money" issue:

Ecclesiastes 10:19 A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all things. On the other hand: 1 Timothy 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

Now here we have two scriptures; both from the Holy Bible which we declare that the Word of God to be the "final authority" yet they are almost contradictory in meaning. Why? . . . and how do each of these passages relate to our marriages? I'm glad you asked!

Even in biblical days, the economic trading practice used "money" to do business. The wisdom of King Solomon in his observation of life, saw then, even as it is now, that the pressures and challenges of life were lessened and often eliminated where there was "money"; so he wrote thus: "money answered all things". However, in reading the entire chapter, he was only referring to things that were related to money, not things such as happiness, love, contentment, peace, and etc., where money is not a factor.

In the New Testament however, while Timothy also observed life's pressures and challenges, noted that just the "love of money" ( not just money) but the love of money became the root of all evil. I'm sure you've read in the newspaper the awful things people have done, even down to lying, betrayal, cheating, cover ups, and they even have gone as far as murder, just because of "money". Now if you think that's not evil, you are mistaken.

Here we are addressed with the issue of "motive".

As you know in today's society, "the mighty dollar rules"., or so we have been led to believe. So how does all this fit into the marriage world?

Good question! Marriage is an institution set and established on standards and principles to include motives. (very important).

Many times as well as many marriages only survive because of "money factor"; and many marriages as well are destroyed because of the lack of "money". Scary isn't it, but it's a fact. Money does seem to change people and marriage relationships. So where do we draw the line? The line is drawn at inception. Meaning, if your motive is wrong at the beginning, nine times out of ten, the money will be the deciding factor and will determine the rise or fall of your marriage; more falls than rise. It's ugly, but it's fact.

If status quo and $$$$ signs are the only reason for your marriage union, then you have lost already, and will eventually end up in divorce. Not an opinion, a statistic!

Please don't misunderstand me here; Yes you do need money to live, but it should not be a prerequisite for marriage, trust me, you need much more than that! Forgive me for being vivid, but how much money will it take to blot out the unfaithfulness of a spouse. . . . .or how much money will substitute the passions of a marriage? You see, my dear friends, money in it's proper perspective is great, but it does not meet certain criteria.

The "oneness" that God speaks about in the Holy scriptures can not be obtained with money! Even with money, comes an authority, and authority without discipline is chaos!

What's the message here: Will money change you. . . . has it changed you. . . .do you have money, or does money have you? I hope you are getting the picture here.

Our love should emulate from the heart for each other, (husband and wife) , our peace should come from God, ( as a result of our acceptance of His law), and our money should pave the way to our welfare, ( and not used as a gambling chip to manipulate a marriage).

"Money won't change you"? . . . . now that's a question you must answer!

Have some fun today. . . . . .and remember. . . . . .You are Blessed!

Where do we go from here. . . .

2007-09-21T03:37:00.000-07:00

Often in our venture in married life we reach crossroads of decisions. The directions we choose will determine our destination, or destiny if you will.
In today's segment, we discuss those directions.
Psalm 97:6 The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory. . . . and
Matthew 5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. So what's the point here?
The marriage institution is a very visible entity, meaning that it is seen by others and is characterized based on the direction you have chosen. Wow! . . . .what a mouth full.
More specifically, the life-style you choose as a marriage union; is actually a mirror for God's plan for man-kind.
Of course you say how. Simply because God's plan for us is to be united as one and with Him. Which direction have you chosen to take. Is it a path for God to get the glory out of your marriage? Psalm 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
As you can see, the Lord delights in the marriage that is willing to be led or follow the path of righteousness through the instruction of His Holy word.
Someone may say, "well I'm not religious". . . that's OK. Once you have taken on the bond of matrimony, you have taken on a religious act. When you therefore take on a religious act, you follow the standards associated with that act. Don't you see, marriage is an institution set up by God, not man. It is an ordained intervention of God. That's why the direction you choose is so important.
Don't fool yourselves my dear friends, marriage is ordained of God! It is the example of God's plan for mankind; being reconciled as "one". The direction you take determines that outcome of destination.
God has chosen "marriage" as the blueprint for union: Ephesians 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: .Sounds like an awesome task, well, it's not. The mere joy of marriage simplifies it. You see, marriage exemplifies love, joy, peace, gentleness, kindness, meekness, and all the other pleasant things associate with life; which is why it is so important to choose the right mate when marring. In addition, and whats so amazing about marriage, it is synonymous with "God's plan of Salvation". Hear the fruits of the Spirit. . . . . Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, . . . . you see! (they all mirror the fruits of marriage). Thus. . . .the direction you take is important.
Will you choose God's direction today for your marriages? It will yield the peaceable fruits of righteousness and deliver your soul, mind, and body.
Take a step in the right direction, choose God's word as your map to success for your marriage. It will be a blessing as well as all that come in contact with you!
Have a wonderful day and always remember. . . . .You are Blessed!

Fellowship

2007-09-20T09:55:00.000-07:00

Today's topic deals with our responsibilities of service as it relates to being married or having a family.

That responsibility of course is called having fellowship!
It is and has been in the past decade, a missing element in the lives of families or just everyday married couples.
The scriptures instruct us in our walk with God, that our fellowship is with the Father and with the Son. Our commitment however as saints of God, is first to have fellowship with the Father and then with one with another in the body of Christ. Having said that, I take you to the Holy scriptures: 1 John 1:3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. Further:
1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
Of course it is very clear and certain, that our fellowship with God and our fellow brethren is so very vital to our walk with God; as it is as important in a marital relationship. Fellowship is a must! Fellowship is a matter of the heart!
Naturally one will ask, what do you mean by "fellowship". Simply this: in order to build and sustain your relationship you must take the time to interact with your spouse, in conversations, in prayer, in activities, in passionate moments, as well as in partnership. You see, it's always the little things that appear insignificant, but are the elements that hold the keys to your success or failure in your marriages. James 3:4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth; so as you can see, even little things can make big differences, you know. . . . .things that we take for granted, things that we overlook. . . . like fellowship!
( Just being together physically does not constitute fellowship. . . . . .there must be an intentional interaction!)
The mere fact that you are even able to fellowship with one another lets you know that you are on the right path. Here's why. . . .2 Corinthians 6:14 (Whole Chapter) Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? . . . and two opposing forces always brings conflict. Conflict is just the opposite of fellowship! Remember that!
I suppose my message today is really about developing a commune, if you will with your mate. If we cannot have fellowship with our mate who we can see and touch every day, we probably will have great difficulty communing with God, who we can't see, if you get my point.
Again, here is my point: Fellowship is the key that locks the door to Satan's invasion. It in turn opens the door to receive God's provision and love. That's right, you see, fellowship is more significant than you realized.
Fellowship with your mate, it's what God's Love is all about, in fact, it's what Marriage God's Way is all about! . . . . .don't forget to fellowship!
Remember. . . . .You are Blessed!

Choosing the right Mate. . . God's way!

2007-09-18T03:10:00.001-07:00

Typically, when it's time for couples to decide on marriage, we generally don't ask God. It's just a fact. However, believe it or not, God also has set a time for us to marry. Surprised? ...well don't be. In the book of Ecclesiastes; Chapter 3, it tells how God has set in order times. A time for everything under the sun.
Many will ask, so how do I pick my mate? Does all of a sudden a man or woman appears, and I fall in love and get married?...Ha! Ha!...Sorry, I do however wish it was that easy, nevertheless. . . . .The Holy Scriptures tell us in Matthew: 6:25 thru 33, that our heavenly Father knows what we have need of; and yes even a mate. We have been so accustom to making all our decisions based on our senses.....feeling , touching , tasting , hearing, and seeing. There is a principle that most couples never consider, and that is trusting in God. You may not believe it but you must trust God with all, or you don't trust Him at all, Marriage in particular. Just a simple principle could save you years of heartaches.
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not to thine own understanding....Proverbs: 3:5. You see it's not important to try and understand how God works. It just important for you to know that He knows how to work in your behalf. Verse 6 goes on to say : In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.
There is an inventory of mates that you don't even see! Praise God! The fact today is: God does care about the mate you pick. He cares who you marry because He alone only knows your future. Does it take faith? ....very little.
Have you ever gone shopping for a special item, and the salesperson says: "what you see is what we've got".disappointing isn't it?. . .it is the same when you don't look to God for your guidance. After all, isn't marriage a life-time affair.?
Contrary to popular belief, many marriages try to function on principles that are unfounded; or better still, not according to God's laws.
More so than not, a man or woman through Pride will say, no one can tell me how to live my life or how to spend my money etc. However, the scriptures tell us something completely different. In the book of Romans, chapter 13, Paul the apostle reveals to us that all men should be subject to the higher powers, and those powers come from God. Why is that so important you might say. Well, just like our laws on earth we are subject to, the same it is with the laws of God. In fact, the scripture goes on to say if we resist the law of God, we invite damnation into our destiny; so we really need to be selective when choosing our mates.
Here's the message: In the marriage function: What's yours is hers, what's hers is yours, you belong to her , she belongs to you. . .get the picture? You should consider those factors when choosing a mate! I Corinthians 7th chapter, tells us that even our bodies belong to each other. Why wouldn't everything else then belong to each other. Remember this: MARRIAGE IS NOT A BUSINESS!. it is the joining of two becoming one in the site of God and man; thus falling under the laws and guidelines of God.
It's amazing how so many marriages could be so much more fulfilling, if we only followed these simple principles.
Nothing should be separate when it comes to your marriage. Separate vacations , separate bank accounts, and on and on as though you were two total strangers.
I'm sure by now you're saying this is none of my business. YOU'RE RIGHT! .....but it is God's business. Take this tip: If you ever want to know if what you're doing is right or wrong, there are two sure ways to find out. #1. see if it corresponds with God's Word. and #2. look at the results of it. That will really tell how you chose, and it says a little something about you!
Take a second look now at your marriage, or your decision to get married . Is your motive filled with warmth and love unconditional? Or are you too busy separating "what's mine"? Now, take another look . . . . .you'll never be the same! Thank God you made the right choice!
Remember. . . . . .You are Blessed!

You take the high road. . .and I'll take the low road. . .

2007-09-17T01:15:00.000-07:00

Now what's wrong with that picture?

Many marriages today have take that same mind set of: "you take the high road and I'll take the low road".

In today's segment, we will address this concept which is by the way, contrary to God's Word!

I need not remind you of the scripture: Ecclesiastes 4:9 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. It's so easy to just keep on living your life as though you were never married, but what does the Lord say about that! What you vowed at the altar says that you would be no more twain but "one flesh". Don't you realize that you are accountable for the words that come out of your mouth? It was "words" that actually shaped this universe, words that brought everything that is into existence. Jesus' words were spirit and life, and your words are life-changing as well. Proverbs 6:2 Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.

Even in today's fast pace society where both the husband and wife must pursue their lively hoods, there should still be a oneness of mind, body, and spirit between the two. The down-fall or the success of your marriage depends solely on the actions you take after the vow!

The strength and hope of your marriages hang on this one principle. . . . . oneness!

When you operate as separate entities, you are sending a message to each other that there is a lack of trust.

Get angry with me if you so choose, but the real fact is: you should have nothing that you cannot share with each other. No secrets, no special bank account, and especially no private agenda.

You are one in the site of God, and you should display that oneness among yourselves.

Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed? Now if the Word of God can clearly see this simple concept, why can't we?

Don't get me wrong, I do understand that having different schedules does make it rather difficult to sometimes physically be together, but it is not a substitute for oneness.

It is in this context that we write today, with the intent that we might destroy that leaven of Satan. Here's a little nugget for you: when you and your spouse practice to become inseparable in your marriage, not necessarily physically, but in mind and in heart, you have then destroyed a strategy of Satan.

Think about it as common sense. Any time you destroy an enemy, your forces become stronger! It in fact gives you some what of an advantage and allows you to better overthrow your enemy. Wow!! that is so powerful, I sure hope you can see that! At any rate, your success and victory for your marriages all rely upon your ability to work at becoming "one".

Jesus said: John 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. I say to you, if you really love each other, you will become one.

Well, why not chew on that today in your thoughts; while I'm praying that you'll have a wonderful and prosperous day. . . . and always remember. . . .

You are Blessed!

Putting God First in your Marriage!

2007-09-16T02:31:00.000-07:00

Many times in our lives , and especially in our walk in marriage, we face unanswered questions about who we really are, or have we made the right decisions in our lives.

In today's segment, we will talk about these questions and see if we can direct our focus on God's solutions and answers, rather than our own.

Have you ever heard of situations where perhaps a friend, relative, or even yourself were on their way to a destination, but was delayed? Maybe they had forgotten a wallet or briefcase, or just forgot to lock the back door. In any case, they were held up for some reason and was not able to leave on time to get to their destination. Later that same day, they had heard of an accident which happened on the exact same highway route that that person would have taken, had they not been delayed; and after finding out the details of the accident, they noted that had they left at the time intended, it would have been them in that accident instead.

You may call it fate, luck, or coincidence, but the real fact of the matter is, it's really destiny! Psalm 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Remember this however; it you that destiny responds to based on your decisions. The decisions you make always dictate the consequences you face!

Trust this my dear readers, no matter how you classify or justify an incident in your life, it still boils down to a "plan and purpose" for your life. As it is in your marriages, a plan and a purpose has been mapped out for you. (According to God's Plan or Will). Again based on your decisions.

Putting God first in you life and marriage, gives you an advantage over most. Simply because it is a flawless plan that will ensure that you will reach the possibilities of your destiny. Most people think that the Bible is just a religious manual that allows you the freedom of religion through our constitution, not really knowing it's content; and sorry to inform you . . . . . what you don't know can hurt you!

We talk generally about the Bible not really realizing that it contains both the rules of life and death. Again, sorry to say, our marriages are hurting and suffer great pain and anguish because we don't have a clue to what has happened to our marriage relationships. Having therefore no guidelines to follow. It is the modern day habit. . . . .do whatever you think is best.Don't fool your selves, marriage is sacred and has a structure, not to be taken for granted, for it is an institution ordained of God.

When we put God first in our marriages, we take out the guess work of trying to figure out alternatives when things fall short of our expectations.

Hebrews 13:4 Marriage is honourable in all; says the Holy scriptures, but there are rules and guidelines set up by God; but you must get them from God's Word, and there are no exceptions! It's rather simple if you look at it: first you read the manual, then you do the work! It doesn't get any plainer.
Ephesians 5:17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. As you can clearly see, it is God's will that you are not kept in the dark about anything concerning your destiny or your marriages. However only the wise will adhere to instruction! Proverbs 8:33 Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.

My message today my dear friends simply lets you know this: the Word of God is designed to challenge your life, but God never forces Himself on you, it is a choice that you must make. The unanswered questions in your life and marriages are really not unanswered. They are all outlined for you in the content of God's Holy Word, the Bible.

The real question today about you and your marriages is this: Are you putting God first in your Marriage? If not, it could very well be the reason for so many unanswered questions about you and your marriage.

Give it a try, you've got nothing to loose, and everything to gain (abundant life and your marriage). Confused? . . . .don't be, it's all written down for you, line upon line, precept upon precept, it's called. . . . . .the Bible!

Have a wonderful day today, and always remember . . . . . .You are Blessed!

It's so nice to be Loved!

2007-09-15T03:02:00.000-07:00

Love. . . .the universal language of Marriage. That's right my dear readers, in today's segment we talk about Love!

Of course, we are all familiar with the word Love; but what about it's application! Let me explain. Love actually is the "catapult" of marriages.

The dictionary describes a catapult as a device to eject airplanes from a launching pad. Sort of a slingshot affect.

While serving time in the armed forces some years ago, I had the opportunity to work with catapults aboard an aircraft carrier during the Viet Nam war. I noticed that the catapults were used to eject the jet aircraft from our ship; and without the use of the catapult, the jets would fall into the ocean, not having enough thrust to keep it airborne; because of it's weight.

Much like our marriages today, without the injecting of Love, our marriage can't eject into it's state of fulfillment. You need that genuine Love between both parties in your marriages to get it off the ground. If you know what I mean.

Love is the greatest element in our marriages and we should always make sure that our love is "marriage-based driven". By that I mean our motives should be pure, honest, and sincere. After all, a heart is a terrible thing to just play with! Love must be kind and gentle, and easy to entreat to each other's needs and desires.

The Bible speaks of Love as "Charity". Listen to the scriptures: 1 Corinthians 13:8 Charity never faileth: 1 Corinthians 13:13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

You see, Charity or (Love) is the greatest of all. It is the essence of your relationship and the "catapult" that takes it to higher levels.

As God's love is great and mighty toward us as humans, our love in our marriages should be as great!

Our message today is very short, but very very powerful. Do yourself a favor, take some time today to examine your love for your spouse. Do whatever necessary to re-kindle that passion of fire in your heart. Tell your husband or your wife just how much you appreciate them and love them. Love always produces the same results. . . . . .acceptance! Why. . . . . . .because. . . . . "it's so nice to be Loved".

Always remember: You are Blessed!

Jealousy. . . . the silent Killer!

2007-09-14T03:17:00.000-07:00

The Bible describes jealousy like this: Song of Solomon 8:6 Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame; and in today's segment, we address this silent marriage killer. JEALOUSY!

Often in our walk in married life there are attributes that show signs of deterioration of our relationships; Jealousy being one of them. It is always at the point of jealousy when the trust factor in our marriages begins to wither. Jealousy has no conscience or gender preference. It is an evil and a heart-felt mindset that comes strictly as a result of betrayal. Many times it is an orchastrated act from Satan. However, it is not specific to Satan. God Himself also has jealousy. Surprised? Don't be, it's true.

Deuteronomy 5:9 Thou shalt not bow down thyself unto them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me, so as you can see, even the Lord God possesses this characteristic.

Jealousy my dear friends usually results in a breach of trust, a trespassing if you will of ownership, an act of treachery against a covenant made.

Is is also the same in a marriage and is why it is known as a "silent killer" for marriages; especially when you don't see it coming.

When you have vowed to be true and have shown signs of interest to another, it will create a furious jealousy! Make no mistake, it can crop up in any humans life where there are signs of breach or distrust.

Just think about it; after you have put all your confidence in someone; it's like giving up a part of yourself to another person, (which is by the way, the general idea of the marriage union anyway), and then that other person betrays your trust with another. If it has never happen to you . . .God Bless You. . . .but to those of you who know exactly what I'm talking about, will understand that dishearten feeling of betrayal. It hurts. No question about it!

Now since we are made after the image of God, we all display the attributes of God, and this attribute is the feeling of Jealousy! It's not automatic, it only comes when a line is crossed, or a covenant broken, you know, a breach of contract so to speak! This is the very reason that God wants our marriages to become "one" , just like becoming one with God also "one" in marriage; they are synonymous.

Your marriage commitment to each other is the most important structure of your marriage relationship. It is the foundational ability to "trust" each other. Without it, there can be no oneness! In the same manor, God wants to be able to trust us in our walk with Him! It is that very reason that the Lord has fashioned the Church after a marriage:
Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; God has always been faithful, and therefore we should be as well.

To the Lord first, then to our spouses. It is the Golden Rule of Marriage: Be Thou Faithful!

Deuteronomy 7:9 Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations; so you see my dear readers, faithfulness is the key. . . . . jealousy kills; . . . . kills the love , the heart, the trust, and more importantly, the Marriage.

Jealousy is a silent killer! Don't let it be named among you. Love and cheerish each other, for it is the sweetness of marriage.

God has truly blessed mankind with this wondrous gift called "Marriage". If you will embrace it, it will cause your heart to rejoice!

Today, You are Blessed!

Starting from scratch. . . .the foundation!

2007-09-12T16:55:00.000-07:00

Since "Rome wasn't build in a day", and neither will your marriage be; I have outlined in today's segment a very simple concept that we can apply to our marriages as though they never were.

Here's what I mean: " Starting from scratch"

Many times in our marriages we allow time to slip by so fast until we are well into our relationships and never really took the time to really get to know each other and plan for your married future. Then of course the current events of the time begins to demand our time and we are then caught up in the "events" of life.

So. . . . what really happens to us when a problem arises and one or the other or perhaps neither party is prepared; simply because we never started on the foundation of marriage!

One may ask, what exactly is the foundation of marriage? Is it the same for every marriage? Does every married couple have the same foundation? Interesting questions!

Well, first of all allow me to answer this way: Marriage is not a free-lance institution that has no structure as some have taken it to be. Just as God gave Adam specific instructions what to do and what not to do in the garden, we as married people have instructions also. After disobeying the Lord's instructions, Adam was forced to start from scratch for the second time,his life's journey with his wife Eve.

Obviously people are different, but think of it this way, if ten people are going to college or a school to pursue a certain profession, do they all not have to take the same tests. . . . and if they do not pass the final test, they just may have to " start from scratch". I hope you're getting my point here.

Subsequently in marriages, it is very similar. Sometimes we just have to "start from scratch." . . and take care of those import things like "communication".

Starting from scratch is not so bad when you consider that it involves the life-time commitment of you both; and since you're going to spend a very long time with each other, it just might be a rather refreshing idea.

Marriages fail simply because of a lack of foundational principles. Of course these principles are found in the God's Holy word. Nevertheless they are the foundation and assuring that your marriages won't fail.

Starting from scratch is the best option; even if you've been married for a while and have become so set in your ways that you think things will never change. I've got good news for you! It can change and it will change, but it starts with you! Listen to the scriptures: Luke 6:48 But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.

My dear friends, why suffer lost when you don't have to? It's never too late! . . . .and the Lord guarantees it!

Luke 6:48 He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. You see, so starting from scratch isn't such a bad idea after all. Trust me, your marriage is worth it.

The message today is simple . . . . .start from scratch. . . . . .build you marriage on the foundation of God's unchanging word. . . . . believe me. . . . . once you start from scratch, you'll never turn back. God Bless you today and your marriages.

Remember. . . . You are Blessed!

Grace for the Marriage . . . .

2007-09-12T03:22:00.000-07:00

In today's segment, we talk about the spiritual part of marriage and it's allowances. Those allowances of course fall in category called "GRACE".

Grace actually is the unmerited favor of God. That's right, it is a benefit that we received and did not work for.

Often in our marriages, we encounter life's situations where our credentials just aren't good enough to handle the situation at hand. By that I mean our intellect, education, experience, etc. isn't sufficient or does not possess the ability to handle certain things that we sometimes are confronted with.

Nevertheless, it is at that moment that Grace kicks in to help us through our problems.

Throughout the Holy scriptures, men and women at some point in their life journey needed Grace to get them through a tough situation. Much like us today in our married lives. Just to show you a few; and there are many; however these are scriptures where grace was implemented in these cases:
Genesis 47:29 And the time drew nigh that Israel must die: and he called his son Joseph, and said unto him, If now I have found grace in thy sight, put, I pray thee, thy hand under my thigh, and deal kindly and truly with me; bury me not, I pray thee, in Egypt: You see, there will come times in your marriage experience where things happen that are just beyond our control!

Exodus 33:12 And Moses said unto the LORD, See, thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people: and thou hast not let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight.

As you can see, God already knows about our delimmas and our challenges. It is always His Grace that gives us the furtherance in these areas.

Titus 3:7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. In this particular scripture, we are being reminded that Grace is given to us because of our willingness to follow after righteousness; which is the real point I am getting to today.

Grace is necessary for your marriage, and it is something that we don't even qualify for. Yet it is because of God's love for us and his desire, ( and especially for the married) to become complete in Him!

Are you facing a difficult situation in your marriage now? Trust me, You Will Get through it , why? . . . .because of Grace, God's grace. 3 John 1:2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.

It is the Grace that allows you to prosper, it is the Grace that keeps your health, and all because it is an unmerited access to the benefits of the Kingdom of Heaven, simply because you chose to take on the bond of Holy matrimony and walk in the statutes that the Lord has laid out in the Holy scriptures.

Now don't get confused, Grace is not a Natural thing, it's a spiritual thing, and whether or not we are believers, we are still given Grace. Grace to wake up in the mornings, grace to have health and strength , grace to be in our right minds, grace for provision, and most of all, grace to accomplish those things that you alone cannot.

My dear precious readers, by no means am I trying force some religious ideology on you. Remember this; you always have the right and will to do whatever you so choose; knowing this however; that you alone are responsible for your actions and only you face the consequences of your actions.

What I am trying to do however, is to give our marriages an option. That option is very simple. It is one of the keys to the enrichment of our marriage relationships; and that key is simply the acknowledgement of grace. Wow! That's it!

When you acknowledge God in your marriage, you have opened a door of favor by God. 1 John 2:23 Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also. Get my point?

It's Grace folks, and grace alone! May God truly bless your marriages today in hopes that you understand that it's Grace that has kept your marriage and will continue as long as you acknowledge Him.

Always remember: You are Blessed!

Love. . ."it's the REAL THING"

2007-09-10T03:10:00.000-07:00

In our segment today, we explore the communication process that allows marriages to work; and of course, that process is call "LOVE". Love is the universal language of marriages!

Love however, is not just a word. It is a recurring action that continually provides the energy if you will, to ensure that your marriage doesn't "conk out". Much like a battery for your automobile.
At times the battery runs low, and need recharging. The exact same thing often happens in our marriages. The action portion of our love sometimes withers and we often think that it's over.
Well, I'm here to tell you that it's not over until God says that it's over! Psalm 85:6 Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee? You see, even in our walk of life or in our relationship with the Lord, we have a tendency to grow weary and in our attempt to maintain our relationship with the Lord, we are sometimes slack. As it is in our marriage relationships, we grow slack.
Nevertheless, the Lord knows that we are human and need help maintaining our vows and commitments, which why He is there to sustain us!
2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
Now, if in our walk with Him, He has promised to provide the help we need to sustain our relationship with Him, how much more do you think He is going to provide the help we need in our marriages, ( an institution He has ordained).
The true fact is: we don't always know what to do when our marriage relationship seems to falter and grow weak; and many times we misinterpret these signs and react incorrectly. That's where the Word of God comes in to guide us and give us instruction.
The Word of God as the scripture outlines: 2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
If you noticed the words correction and instruction, it is in this perspective that God wants us to turn to Him for those directions.
Our action of Love is the most essential part of our marriages; and although we encounter some hills and valleys in the course of our relationships, God through His Holy word has given us some alternatives that we can lay hold on to reinforce or even re-build our marriages; and it's all done through our acts of Love! Just remember God's definition and attribute as He defines Love:

1 Corinthians 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. (Charity being interpreted as Love!)

Here's the message: the universal language of marriage can only be Love. It is marriages' beginning, it's operation, it's own repair, it's own healing, and it's rejuvenation. Real Love never has to be announced. It is clearly seen by it's action.
Use today in your marriage this universal tool of Love which is given to us by God. It is the "real thing".
. . . .and once again. . . . You are Blessed!

A Marriage Revival. . .

2007-09-09T02:41:00.001-07:00

Isaiah 61:1 (Whole Chapter) The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;

Yes my dear readers, it is time for a "Marriage Revival". A revival of restoration, healing, deliverance, love, compassion, and fellowship.

Invariably, when you think of revival, you think of the preaching of saving souls . Well, I believe that a marriage revival is just that; the saving of your marriage and your soul. In fact, when the married or the two coming together as one, we are actually doing what God says in His Holy Word, BECOMING ONE!. That's right . . . when we follow the outline for marriage God's way, we are saving our souls from destruction. That's how serious marriage is! When we falter on the holy vows of matrimony.

Be assured of this one thing: when you adapt to the teachings of the Holy scriptures and apply it to your marriages, you then fall under a different category than the world. Yes, a category that says: "I will be your God and ye shall be my people". . . . .Isaiah 59:19 So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him.

You see, as the scriptures tell us: Ephesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. . . and these are the things that causes emulations, divisions, separations, confusions, animosity, indifference, fears, disputes, and ultimately divorce; but through God's mighty power, we can launch a revival in our marriages that will over come all obstacles. Hallelujah!

My dear married friends, WE NEED A MARRIAGE REVIVAL! We need to rekindle that spark of love and passion in our relationships and lay aside our differences and engage!

Did you know that the very moment. . . . . that's right, the very moment you just turn to God for His help, that He's right there to provide you with the comfort and the solution and the healing necessary to revive your relationship! Why ?. . . . .because God always favors His word above all other things; and His word says: Hebrews 13:4 Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.

I don't know about you, but I want to be counted among the honorable!

(in God's sight, that is)!

Like anything else, God also has principles and processes that we must go through in order to activate this revival. Listen to the scriptures: 2 Corinthians 5:18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; so as you can see, the ability and power for revival lays within us!. . . . Matthew 5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.

Sometimes we just need to confront one another in love, compassion, and forgiveness; that's where the true marriage revival starts. Will you consider that today?

Will you be reconciled and allow a marriage revival to emulate in your marriage relationship? It will Bless you and open a whole new door for your marriage. Then you will have this testimony; from an old Sunday School verse: THE LORD IS MY SHEPARD AND I SHALL NOT WANT. . . .because He has revived my Marriage. . . . . Amen!

Always remember . . . . . You are Blessed!

Marriage. . . .A Tree of Life !

2007-09-08T01:54:00.000-07:00

As the Holy Bible describes the attributes or the benefits of living a God-fearing life it reads:
Proverbs 11:30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. In today's segment, we relate these attributes to marriage.

From it's inception, marriage has always been looked upon by God as a part of a righteous plan.

Adam and Eve in the garden became the first married couple. Genesis 2:18 And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. 21And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;
22And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.
23And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man
Genesis 2:24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. . . .and because of this great intervention by God, the marriage union is formed and a righteous relationship before God and man.

Now notice in this scripture again, the benefit: Proverbs 11:30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; that's also your marriage. You see my dear friends, when we as marriages begin to realize the wondrous magnitude of our marriage union, and it's powerful affect in the world, we will begin to appreciate one another more. That's right, believe it or not, your marriage carries an authority, a power if you will, and it has affect on humanity. Sound mind boggling? . . . well it isn't. Why do think that there is so much disruption concerning marriages. Divorce, abuse, infidelity, same sex marriage, pre-nups, confusion, and the list goes on and on to throw the world off track, just so mankind does not see marriage in a clear perspective; in othere words, the way it was intended to be: by God!. Amazing eh? All this fuss with marriages by Satan to try to deminish the authority and influence that it carries. A trick of the enemy. Can't you see it?

I tell you now, so that it will incite your thinking; IT IS A DIRECT ATTACK OF SATAN!

That's why the churches now are so ineffective and weak; because the marriages are under attack. Weak marriages. . . . .weak church. Your marriage carrys a strength!

My dear friends, if you are married today, you must treasure your relationship! I encourage you to hold on, keep the faith, love your wife, love your husband, and thank God that you have been chosen to carry the true testimony of "oneness". It is God's plan, and out of it comes a "tree of life".

The tree of life is the continual growth and sustaining power that reproduces over and over. You see, life brings life. Your marriage as an entity alone is like a monument or a city set on top of a hill. It can't be hid, it stands out, it is a declaration to the humanity, that you two have become one through love, faith , commitment and covenant. YOUR MARRIAGE IS A TREE OF LIFE . . . HALLELUJAH!

Mark 3:27 No man can enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, except he will first bind the strong man; and then he will spoil his house. . . .YOUR MARRIAGE PROVES THAT IT IS (THE STRONG MAN) AND CANNOT BE BOUND! . . .do you get it? That's why it's so important to cherish your marriage, it actually makes a statement to the world. Praise God!

Well I'm getting happy now so I'd better close. Your marriages can work, it can last, and it will last. You don't have to fall into the category of the masses. Stand up for your marriage and declare to the world: OUR MARRIAGE IS A TREE OF LIFE! . . . .AMEN!

May the Lord richly Bless you today and always remember:

You Are Blessed!

By Faith. . . .

2007-09-07T02:26:00.000-07:00

Psalm 24:7 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. That's right my friends, the King of Glory will come into your marriages.

In today's marriage segment, we are highlighting a very important element in your marital walk. That element is called "Faith". Faith in God and faith for your marriages.

One may say well, how is it exercised? Simple, by standing firmly on the Word of God concerning every issue of your relationship. You see, only those who are wise will seek help for their situations; while others that are full of pride find no solutions. Listen to this scripture: Galatians 6:3 For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. Let's face it, if knew all the answers of life, we wouldn't need God. Fortunately don't; instead, we have our precious Lord: Hebrews 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

How awesome that is, to know that God knows and cares about our situations. Our marriages are not hopeless. We have been given choices. . . Praise God!

Now the Bible defines Faith like this: Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. . . .which simply means that if we lay hold on the instruction from the Holy scriptures, whether we can see it happening or not, it will yield the right results; thus giving us the confidence we need to know that whatever God says, He is able to bring it to pass! We need simply to believe Him and trust Him.

In other words. . . . . FAITH! That's all faith is. We don't have to understand it; we just have to believe it!

I'm sure there are those that say: "well, I can't believe things I don't understand". . . . here is my answer to that: when you can explain how a brown cow that eats green grass and produces white milk, or perhaps explain 85 degrees on Christmas and snow on Easter, or even why you have five fingers on each hand and not six.

My point is this: there will always be things that are not understood or explained; nevertheless they are just a part of life. Faith is a part of life too! If you utilize it correctly, it will benefit your life greatly.

Our marriages are in need of benefit and support; and that support comes from the instruction of God's word. However, it is only effective if we (through faith) pursue it!

Faith is the catapult for the progression in our marriages. Faith is the strength we need to endure those difficult situations. Faith is the blessed assurance that no matter how challenging we are able to persevere and come out victorious!

Why not grab hold of Faith today! In fact, why not make it one of the ingredients of your marriage relationship. You just may see something you've never seen before.

Faith . . . . . I use it everyday . . . . . you should too!

Always remember. . . . . .You are Blessed!

How Much Does Marriage Cost?

2007-09-06T03:30:00.000-07:00

In today's segment, we look at the responsibilities, dedications, and commitments for our marriages. In fact, in all sincerity, true marriage will require of both parties. . . everything!

Allow me to explain. . . .the mere fact that Holy matrimony is the covenant between two individuals; and is the life long commitment to relinquish each other's self, both naturally and mentally is the ultimate price for this union. In God's eyesight, it is the completion of unity!

Most marriages today suffer the unfortunate disease of "lack of commitment". 1 Corinthians 7:3 Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. How important that is for our marriages to adopt that mindset.

With all of the outside forces, temptations, and challenges that marriages are confronted with on a daily basis, it wise and necessary to understand our roles as "no more twain but one".

The scriptures tell us regarding spiritual warfare to: Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

Likewise it is the same when we refer to marriages. We need to do everything necessary to ensure the health, happiness, and strength of our marriages against these forces and challenges of life.

Repeatedly I am asked, "how in the world did you stay married for 39 + years to the same woman"; my answer of course is as always, only by the goodness of God and His instructions through His Holy Word! Luke 14:28 (Whole Chapter) For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?

In marriage, you must be determined and willing to give all of yourselves to each other and be willing to submit to the guidelines set forth under the marriage bond of faith. What is the marriage bond of faith? . . . .simply this: it is the belief that once you have decided to take on the bond of Holy matrimony in wedlock, then you have also determined or believed that "forever" this union will be your destiny for you both, before God and man! It's almost like a declaration, if you will.

How much does marriage cost? . . . .it cost your life time commitment and agreement and understanding that this marriage will last!

My dear readers, it not a secret or some mystical formula. It's a matter of choosing from the heart, mind and soul to follow the instructions of life and success, happiness, health and healing, deliverance, restoration, and fulfillment right out of the "Book of Life" the Holy Bible.

When you position your marriage under the parameters that I have just mentioned, you have paid the cost for Marriage God's Way!

If you have read this today, I know beyond a shadow of doubt, that: You are Blessed!

Priorities. . . .Priorities. . . .Priorities.

2007-09-05T02:12:00.000-07:00

Priorities, priorities, priorities; are sometimes misappropriated when it pertains to our marriages!

Today's topic relates to those priorities. Exactly where do your priorities lay. Is it your job, your church, your children, your husband, your wife? Is it money, impressions, status, or are all these in no certain order!

In any event, our priorities are most important in the building of our marriages. Listen to this scripture: Matthew 6:21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also; and subsequently, where your heart is will determine your priorities.

Did you know that in marriages where there are children, the wife's priority should actually be to her husband first and not the children. Shocked? You should be. Many marriages wither because the right amount of attention isn't given to the husband. It actually makes a man feel that his authority or headship is of no value. Likewise men, "the game" should never be more important than your wife wanting a little attention. Women need to feel wanted! It's just a fact of life.

Marriages are strengthened by the involvement of the two parties. No one wants to feel that they are taken for granted, so taking time to prioritize that involvement is a vital part of your marriages. Proverbs 5:18 Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth. . . .even if it means re-prioritizing!

Historically, marriages were premised on the idea of spending more time with your mate; however, as time has evolved to a fast pace society, we have found ourselves with not enough time to interact. How sad! . . . .which now leads us to our priorities! What's more important, you should ask yourself! Especially in christian marriages where there are responsibilities of ministry. Well I hate to bust your bubbles, but your first ministry is your family, particularly your spouse. You see when you operate outside of the parimeters of the marriage bond' you are actually in error! Believe it or not, there are guidelines for marriages, and they are found within the context of the Holy scriptures. It may not set on you well, but it's the truth and a fact: Ephesians 5:17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

As it is done in so many marriages today, we err not really knowing what God has to say about our priorities! We hide behind some religious ideology that's not even scripturally sound and think that we are doing God's work. You are dead wrong! 2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: and in case you didn't know it; prioritizing in marriage is a part of righteousness!

Absence doesn't make the heart grow fonder, that's just an old saying! Interaction makes the heart grow fonder! You need it, and it's important.

Marriage is not a business, and you shouldn't treat like one. Marriage is the ultimate parallel of God's plan of salvation for mankind. Becoming one with God is the purpose of the Gospel. Becoming one with your mate is the purpose of Marriage.

When you fail to prioritize the things that are important in your marriage, being: time for each other first, you handicap your ability to build a strong loving and holy relationship. After all, your marriage becomes a holy union, after you have put things in their proper perspective.

Take time to prioritize or re-prioritize if needed the things that are right for your relationship. You will have then obeyed the voice and instruction of the Holy scriptures as well as bringing joy, love, and fulfillment in this union called "Marriage"

God Bless you today and don't forget to Prioritize!

Always remember: You are Blessed

The Deception. . . Part II

2007-09-03T03:37:00.000-07:00

As we look at today's society and it's horrible acts of murder, molestations, unnatural desires, and false ideologies, we sense that the world is getting worse. Well in fact, it is.

These are all signs of the deception of the enemy, the devil; and whether you face it or not, these acts are happening more frequently than ever. Call me a judgement preacher if you want, but it does not make these things go away!

In today's segment, if you allow me, I want to reconstruct your thinking through the Word of God to counter-act these deceptions of whoredoms!

In the book of : Ephesians 5:17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. That is so very important. Recognizing a problem is one thing, but doing something about it is another.

Our marriages have been purposely attacked by the enemy for the simple reason that it causes havoc and confusion, unhappiness, heartbreak,and disapointment. Scripture. . . . . 1 Corinthians 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. so clearly you can see that anything that brings confusion, does not come from God!

In fact, anything that brings separation, debate, resistance, calamity, turmoil, confrontation in your marriages has come from the enemy. You see, anything that is unnatural and becomes more prevalent than the thing that is natural is a sure sign that it has definitely come form Satan. It's like living "inside out". 2 Timothy 3:1 1This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 6For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,
7Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

My dear friends, these scriptures were written over 2000 years ago. The question is, how do we escape these things? . . . well to be honest, you can't, and you won't; however, you can counter-act them through God's Holy Word!

Mankind is no match for Satan!! You must defeat him with the power of the scriptures.That's right, God's Word is the only defense mechanism for Satan. Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth; and without God's power in your life, your marriage will suffer!

Do you honestly think that divorce is natural? Think about that! Why on earth would you pick a mate to spend the "rest of your life" with and then divorce them? Why? Hosea 4:6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. Wow! I'd say that's pretty serious; and you are right, it is serious. Our marriages should be flourishing with joy, peace, and happiness and wealth, instead we are flooding the divorce courts. Something is wrong. There are just as many single mothers as there are married couples. Something is definitely wrong!

Don't get this wrong my dear readers, it has nothing to do with religion! It's all about going back to basics and doing what is right. ( in the eyesight of God, not man) Job 5:17 Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty. These are things that are not spoken across the sacred desk; so God has very strategically placed His messengers across the globe through, preachings, live services, books, blogs, media, and many other vehicles, to get this message out to marriages, and then to mankind. 1 Corinthians 2:5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

Now stop the devil's hype. . . . .nullify his deceptions. . . . reach out for God's help. It's all a matter of choice, Your choice! Bring Christ into your marriage! Your relationship will change forever!

Always remember: You are Blessed!

The Deception. . . !

2007-09-03T01:49:00.000-07:00

In the book of Revelation, our Lord talks about the "great white throne judgement" and in particular, the destruction and judgement of Satan, the devil, who had deceived mankind in the world from the beginning of time through this whoredom. ( in layman terms: the lust of the flesh). The deception however, was through an act called Whoredom.

In today's segment, we we will address this whoredom as it pertains to the destruction of marriages.

The scriptures teach us in: 1 John 2:16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. . . .and because we live in our human bodies, we are all challenged by the devil through our " flesh".

You see my dear readers, the devil can only attack you through your senses; because these are attributes of your flesh. He is not able to attack you in your spirit because that is the part of you that belongs to God; and it lays dormant until you have accepted Jesus Christ into your life. Only then will your spirit be awakened and become a part of your everyday life. (very important to know)!

Now after saying all that, it is important that you understand that once you have now. . .a God-conciseness, you become a target for the devil. If you are married, you then become a major target. Simply because of the authority you carry as . . . ."no more twain but one" as a married couple. Pretty deep eh? It gets better!!

Since your marriage is now a "major target" of the devil, you both are under attack through your flesh and the lust thereof; and I might add, even if you are saved. ( born again believer).

Believe me, without receiving the "salvation of the Lord" through faith in Jesus Christ, you actually have no defense for Satan's attacks. THIS MESSAGE IS TO BOTH THE SAVED AND UNSAVED!, so listen closely! Think about it, and most of all, let's be real and truthful.

The strategy of Satan is to make you think that you are not satisfied in your marriage. Therefore through lust, he entices you first, through the eyes. Come on men, even though you're having lunch with your wife and across the room is this sexy, pretty, and enticing women, surely she has caught your eye. The world however says: it's OK to look, just don't tough or pursue. That's the biggest lie the devil could ever make you think. It's not OK. That is the beginning of the lust. Listen to the scriptures: James 1:14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. You see, it's a part of your flesh; and the only way to combat it is through the power of the Lord. (if you have Christ in your life) Take it or leave it. . . it's the fact.

Women, you as well. It is the same for you. The devil fights your thoughts too! It is a human trait that can only be overcome through the power of God through your inner spirit man!

The deception of the devil is to make the married think that their mate is "not enough". That's called lust; and to make sure you understand this, you must always look at it's attributes. Lust is never satisfied. Lust can affect you in many different ways. Addictions are simply attributes of lust. Your decision to find another mate is only "lust". It's not natural.

Well . . . . it looks as though I have run out of time. In our next segment, we will discuss the antidote for this deception of the devil and bring exposure and solutions for these "lusts" that have destroyed our marriages.

Nevertheless : Romans 8:37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. . . .so remember:

You are always Blessed!

For by thy Words. . . . .

2007-08-30T17:47:00.000-07:00

In the last segment we addressed the negative side of our words. We learned that what we speak could affect our lives and marriages negatively.

Today, I would like to share with you the authority of your "good words".

Even in marriage, we are able to change the course of our relationships just by our words.

James 3:6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. James 3:8 (Whole Chapter) But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

So my dear readers, since we cannot tame our tongues, why not use it to enhance the course of our marriages, with good words that is!

As we encounter day to day life and interact with our spouses, our words are pivital guides that set in motion, the negative or the positive. Now remember, as we quoted in our last segment: Matthew 12:37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. . . . .so why not be in agreement with God's word concerning our marriages.

It is a fact that when you say what God says, you enter into an agreement with Him, thus you have entered into another realm or area of your life that makes you a benefactor of the Blessings of God. Whether you believe it or not, people who's lives stay in turmoil, and who are indecisive, unhappy, depressed, unruly, as though their lives are going around in circles and never finding fulfillment, is a result of not being in agreement with God. . . . .and that goes for the rich as well. You see, peace does not have a $$ value.

Now here are a few tips to help us realise the usefulness of our words.

Be sure to start your day with words of thanksgiving, for life and for your mate. Romans 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; (with kind words - I love you, I'll miss you, have a nice day, God Bless you, don't forget to call, are all "starter words and phrases" that actually set the course of your day. Stop saying "I can see this is going to be a bad day". . . . just because the car won't start!

It just might be that God is holding you up to prevent you from being involved in a terrible accident! , ever think of that?

Your words can make an entire day, if you use them correctly. Compliment your love one, and remind each other of the promises of God for your marriage, as written in the Holy Bible. Let good words begin to penetrate your thought patterns. Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: and when you think good things, you usually say them. Did you know that you can actually destroy the works of the enemy (the devil) by using good words or saying what God says? It's a fact, even when Jesus was tempted of the devil, his defense was: "the Word of God", what is written, that's right, the written word spoken becomes a reality of authority and power! Wow. . . .that's pretty powerful!

Listen to the word: husbands, love your wives, wives love your husbands. These are all good thoughts, words, and acts that creates a defense for your marriages against attacks from outside forces. That's right, and it works!

In conclusion, I'd like to share with you this scripture: Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. . . .it will change the course of your speech. It will set off an unquenchable fire of desire between the two as one! Your marriage should be an undeniable reality to the world, and so visible that it impacts others to see a relationship of love, trust, confidence. . . . . and here's what so great about it. . . . .it all starts with "words". so. . . . . . say something nice today to your spouse and watch things begin to change.

Now I'm giving your marriages good words. . . . .Always remember, YOU ARE BLESSED!

The Universal Word of God. . . is for your Marriage!

2007-08-30T16:36:00.000-07:00

In a world filled with so much turmoil and pretense, a universal attack on the marriages seems to be the target for old Satan! Nevertheless, in today's segment, we will explore those strategies and expose them.

We live now in a society of sophisticated vocabularies. That's right, words! Words of promise, words of authority, words of direction, words of advise. Our communication has been so high tech, until our words are now transmitted through computer micro chips otherwise known as emails and etc.

The words we speak can actually be as detrimental as they are life changing. Allow me to explain.

Mankind has always, from the beginning of time adopted the God-type attribute of using words. Here's what I mean. In the beginning: God used words!
Genesis 1:3 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. Genesis 1:6 And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.
Genesis 1:9 And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.
Genesis 1:11 And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
Genesis 1:14 And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years: just to mention a few; and now it's our turn.

You see, it is through the power of speech do we set the courses of our lives, and in this particular instance, our marriages. Yes. . . . . .what you speak, you become.

Even modern day psychologists teach us that positive words result in positive actions, which result in positive results in one's life.

Listen to the scriptures also:
Matthew 12:37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. Interesting isn't it? Are you getting the point? That's right, you have the power to speak into your marriage.

We don't even realize the effectiveness of our own words! We use too many negative phrases. Just listen to these phrases and you fill in the blanks!

Negative phrases such as: "you're always. . . . I can't ever get. . . .I guess I'm just not. . . . we'll never be able to. . . . .and many many more of these negative statements destroys the fiber of your relationship, as well as you as individuals. Don't you see, WHAT YOU SPEAK, YOU BECOME!. Just as our Lord spoke this world into existance, we also have that same ability (only on a much smaller level) to speak the things that are wholesome, healthy, encouraging, rewarding, and most of all, the things that are right!

Just maybe we need to re-educate ourselves and our thinking. So where do these negative things come from. Yes . . . Yes . . . . the Devil himself. He doesn't want our marriages to become strong. He wants to destroy them. John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

Why do you think that the churches are so ineffective today? It's mostly all entertainment. No saving, no healing, no setting the captives free, no real deliverance. It's almost like a social club. Why. . . . . because the families are not strong, because the marriages are not strong either. Weak , broken down marriages,. . . . . .weak broken down church! That's a fact, like or not!

Our marriages must be healed!. . . . .and a good place to start is with our words. Changing the way we speak, even to each other as husband and wives. Remember this! You can't take back words! (whether you meant it or not)

In our next segment, we will address the positive side of our words. Yes my dear readers, words for our marriages. Good Words, words for strength, healing and restoration.

So until next time. . . .

Always remember: You are Blessed!

Freedom or Bondage. . . It's your choice !

2007-08-29T10:40:00.000-07:00

Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. As you can see, today's segment deals with "freedom and bondages".

In the above scripture, Paul the apostle is actually referring to being free from your sin debt and admonishing you not to fall back into old habits. However, there also different kinds of freedoms and bondage's that we rarely talk about.

In most cases in marriages where there are no set guidelines, there are also a types of freedoms and bondage's. Let me explain: The freedoms that fall under the category of "do what you want to do and when you want to do it", where at the same time these types of freedoms also lead to a type of a bondage. Kind of like having to look over your shoulder, just to make sure that you don't get caught; or just having a war within your conscience, knowing that there is an issue in your marriage that should be addressed but you don't want the other party to know about it in fear that it may damage your marriage. Wow, that's pretty severe, wouldn't you say?

The fact of the matter is this: our marriages are in constant conflict with the outside forces of life and we have but one defense to even control it. That defense is. . . . . .you guessed it . . .The Word of God. Without question, our ability to combat those outside forces are solely dependent upon our willingness to receive the engrafted Word of God for instruction.

When we as husbands and wives determine to submit our lives and marriages to Almighty God, we then lessen out chances of being put into a bondage situations. Always remember the scriptures:
Galatians 5:9 A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump. . . .meaning simply that if you continue to overlook a problem, or don't do anything about it, it just gets bigger!

Freedom however, is the freedom of knowing that you have put all your cards on the table with each other, therefore allowing nothing to crop up at a later time to weaken the strength of your relationship. Our marriages are mirrored through God's plan of salvation. Believe it or not, the way we deal with our spouses, is exactly the same way we deal with God! (with honesty or pretense).

Probably the worse thing that could possibly happen in your life is that your sin debt is not paid, or dealt with, but since Jesus Christ has covered that part for you, you have only to deal in honesty with each other. This is where your freedom starts.

As you together seek the instruction out of the Word of God for your relationship and any issues that prevent you from having a free relationship, you free yourselves from any past guilt or condemnation that may be blogging your minds. The Word of God is in fact, help, healing, guidance, and deliverance. You see, once your spirit is free, you are free. Once you become free, your marriage begins to flow in freedom. Be sure to remember this: Freedom and bondage cannot stand on the same corner!

Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Now it's time for you to make the choice: freedom or bondage. I chose the freedom, how about you! God Bless you!

This day, you are Blessed!

Dominating Spirits. . . .The Cure!

2007-08-28T13:16:00.000-07:00

Once again we address the subject of "dominating spirits". In today's segment however, we find out how to combat it.

Scripture clearly tells us that our love should be without dissimulation; and in our previous segment we learned that dissimulation causes us to behave just the opposite of the way we normally would.

We have further determined that a dominating spirits will cause conflict in our marriages. So, how do we actually deal with this?

Well my dear readers and married couples, it's a matter of love. One might say: how will love shut that big mouth of my spouse or how will it calm that wild man and boisterous behavior of my significant other? Simply by God's unprecedented Love! Did you think I was going to suggest that you just tie them up and put them in a closet for two weeks.(smiles) , of course not. Love is the most powerful and effective resource of your marriage. Not only does it comforts, sustains, upholds, delivers, forgives, encourages, forbears, entreats, it also is the 24/7 glue that holds your relationship in balances of integrity. Without it, you have no marriage.

1 Peter 4:8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. (not cover up but rather compensate) That's right, it all has to do with Love. Love carries the authority of cancellation. What do I mean by that. . . .just this: Your love for one another, if it is genuine will cause haughty and aggressive natures to humble themselves to a higher authority. Even if that person has been that way for a long time. Here's an example:

Mark 5:2 (Whole Chapter) 1And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes.
2And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,
3Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains:
4Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him. You see, even in our own wisdom, influence and strength, we are not able to change people. We need help with that part! Many times we oppose ourselves without even realizing it, as that same man in the scriptures. 5And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones. In this case, the dominating spirit did harm to himself. Now imagine if he were loosed and that spirit exposed to others; much like what happens in our marriages, we then become victimised by that spirit.

Well it is exactly the same when we allow dominating spirits in our marriage relationships. It must be dealt with through the Love of Christ. Now Jesus simply casts that spirit out of the man with His authority of Love. Sometimes it's not really the person, it's only an unfavorable spirit that's in that person. What do you do? . . . . . you cast it out with the Love of God of course. God's Love. It is the only life transformer available!. . . . . .but it works!

We don't need dominating spirits in our marriages. We have enough to deal with in every day life challenges without an unwelcome spirit such as domination. Domination is an unclean spirit. . . . .get rid of it and it, and it will change your marriages and once again bring peace, joy, and the harmony. That's what God intended for your marriages. So try it, . . . .you're gonna love it!

Always remember: You are Blessed!

The Dominating Spirit

2007-08-28T03:28:00.000-07:00

In today's segment, we are talking about the "dominating spirit" in marriages. Of course as you know, no one wants to feel dominated, and especially in a marriage.

Domination is a controlling force that places limits of it's own choosing on the other party. In the spiritual world, domination is a demonic force set forth to destroy an individual or an entity such as a marriage relationship.( You definitely need to remember that).

People with dominating personalities, especially when it comes to a marriage, are usually people that are very insecure about themselves and feel the need to control someone else's life. That too is a demonic spirit or force, and I might add that it is not natural.

Domination is diametrically opposed to God's plan of marriage. Accept it or not, domination destroys marriages and ultimately the individuals that is subject to it. In the scripture: Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, and most of all, it's not dominating.

You see, domination does not allow marriages to fulfill it's task of "oneness". I'm sure you have met or know someone or some marriages where one or the other has that domineering or a controlling spirit.

NOTE:(To the men) Being the head doesn't give you the authority to be domineering. ; and it can be the other way around as well.(For the women) Some women too are so dominating until it is almost unbearable; and the man doesn't want to resist her, so he finds another past time away from the home just so he is not dominated by that woman! (a very important point) Scary isn't it? Nevertheless, it is a reality in many marriages today. Dominating spirits will destroy your marriage forever! Besides, that's not God's way. Listen to the scriptures: Romans 12:9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

What does it mean; simply this: anything that changes the natural state to become the opposite of what it was intended to become is dissimulation. In stead of being one entity (I am speaking regarding marriages only) you become two individuals vying for the same position, which ultimately will always bring conflict. As you all well know, conflict in the home brings about the destruction of a marriage. You know. . . . the D-word!!
Dominating spirits bring dissimulation, dissimulation breaks down the bond of oneness, and if the bond of oneness does not exist in your marriage, you are working against the principle of God's law of marriage. You then fall under the condemnation of disobedience and no longer fall under the protection plan of God. Psalm 91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

I'll bet that you didn't know that when you follow the principles and guidelines that God has set forth in scripture for your marriage that you"abide under the shadow of God" That's why the enemy doesn't want harmony in your marriage; and subsequently is why there are so many divorces, (the church first) and then in the world. WOW!. . . pretty powerful.

In the next segment, we will discuss how to combat this demonic force called "the dominating spirit", so be sure to look for our next insight. Until then, Have a wonderful day and remember God loves you in spite of everything!

By the way. . . . . . . . .TODAY . .I am celebrating my 60th birthday and 39th year in marriage!! HALLELUJAH!

Always be Blessed!

Spending time with the Lord. . . .

2007-08-26T01:49:00.000-07:00

In to today's lesson, our subject is "spending time with the Lord". If you will notice the the scripture below:
Ecclesiastes 3 : 1To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: 2A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; 3A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; 5A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; 7A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; 8A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
As you can see, there are times and seasons for everything. Even in your marriages, there are times and seasons that should be set aside for that, and one of the most important times for your marriages is spending time with the Lord.
Spending time praying, reading the Word of God, meditating, sharing with each other. These are times that are most necessary for your marriages. You see, God desires to impart into your spirits, hearts, and minds, the necessary wisdom that keeps you and your marriage day by day.
Let's face it, sustaining your marital relationship along with everyday life is a monumental task. It's not easy either. The only way to keep your perspectives and objectives, your well-being, and soberness of thought, is to meditate upon the instruction of God's Holy Word. That alone is the sustaining power you need to keep your marriages afloat. Anything short of that is just surviving until something better comes along. (think about that, if you will)
I have never read in any of the marriage vows about just surviving. It's not there, and furthermore; it's not God's way!
It is important that you both as well as independently spend time with the Lord. It's your sanity and your guide. It is your encouragement and your peace. Out of it shall come your welfare and your peace.

1 Timothy 4:15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. (How important this is) The time that you spend with the Lord in His instruction reflects in your marriage. Everything comes to the surface eventually anyway; and is clearly seen by others.

Joshua describes his time with the Lord like this:Joshua 1:8 Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.

Yes my dear readers, and that includes your marriages.

In spite of what other people say and do: "God is not my co-pilot", as I've seen on signs and bumper-stickers; God is the pilot of my life and marriage, and He should be yours too!. . . . . if you just learn to spend time with the Lord.

May God truly and richly Bless you today!

Just an attack of the enemy....

2007-08-24T06:56:00.000-07:00

Now . . . Regarding the Juanita Bynum incident:

The Bible teaches us that we are not ignorant of Satan's devices, and in this last day movement of the Kingdom of God being presented to the world, we as children of God can expect anything. It's not strange and it certainly is not a surprise. We already know that it is coming; the attact of the enemy. The reassuring part however, is that . . . . .the Lord delivers us out of them all. . . .Amen!
Now as for those concerned Christians who think that these incidents should be hidden or covered up, you are so mistaken.

The fact is that some things need to be brought out into the open. A problem can never be corrected if it is covered up. It is the mere reason that Jesus came. . . .to save the lost, to heal the sick , to set the captive free, and bind up the broken hearted; to bring deliverance.

If the woman at the well had covered up sins of her many husbands, she would have never been able to declare her great testimony of deliverance.
Our churches are suffering today because of so many "cover ups" . We need power and deliverance in the the church, not cover ups.

Our pastor teaches us the concept of "no more lies" which has revolutionized the lives of many. True, we should always pray for the couple and God will be glorified at the end. Absolutely nothing has been taken away from the two anointed vessels. It is just a time of trials, tribulations and temptations. How soon we forget God's Holy words: Romans 8:28 : And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
God is going to take this incident and turn it into a glorious testimony for His name sake.We DO HAVE THE VICTORY. . . .through Christ who still loves us.

Remember this: the sufferings of this present time is not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed in us . . . . .if we just stop trying to cover up!
God Bless you today!

Kept by God. . . .

2007-08-23T16:50:00.000-07:00

The question in today's segment is as always. . . .how! How do marriages stay together in today's society? How can marriages last or even go the distance? How can you still love one person for a lifetime? How can you live with someone who's is so different from yourself? How is it possible to become one as the Bible says that we should? How can we know if our marriages are even authentic? How . .How. . How!

That's right my dear friends, How. . .is the question.
If I tell you that all of these questions are easy, I would be doing you an injustice. It's not easy. There are trials and tribulations, disappointments and dis-pares; disagreements and misunderstandings and often, different beliefs; so how is it done? Well here's your beginning!
1 Corinthians 5:7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:
So, what is it that the Lord is saying? You see, there is a "mind-set" that you must have in order to accomplish these difficult tasks; and that mind set is first coming to Christ! I know. . .you're not religious! Well religion has absolutely nothing to do with coming to Christ. Surprised? . . . you should be.
Contrary to popular belief, religion is like joining an organization and abiding by the by laws and rules and regulations; sort of a moral responsibility in fact. Even the scriptures say: James 1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself un-spotted from the world. ( and even that's difficult to do). However, coming to Christ is a Life transformation.
You see, when you become different, you begin to think differently. . .Get my point? 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. Things will never change for you or your marriage unless you change!
As you submit to Him, you are opening a door of wisdom and knowledge that you never knew before. A mind set that you never had. Trust me, it doesn't just come naturally, it is imparted to you by God.
I truly feel sorry for unbelievers, because they are missing out on the powerful and effective wisdom that God gives those who put their trust in Him.
In all practicality, if you worked for a company that required a security badge to access the property, no outsider or anyone else could get access without having that security badge. And it is the same with the Lord. When you come to Him, you have privileges. It's so simple. Stop worrying about religion and just come to Him. He will prove Himself. In fact, just the way you are, you and your marriage, no questions asked.
If you really want those questions about your lives and your marriages answered . . .invite Jesus Christ into your life: messed up , hooked up, caught up, or any other kind of up you may be in. Christ changes the entire perspective and gives you solutions. It's all recorded in His word, and it's called the Holy Bible.
Consider this: I could not testify of these things if it had not happened to me. I've been married for 39 1/2 years and I'm still in Love with my wife; but only through Christ. Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
So you see, you can know what to do and how to do it. Your marriages can be destined for greatness in happiness and fulfillment, and the best part of it all. . . . .your marriage then. . . . is Kept by God!
God Bless this day; only because you are Blessed!

Somebody shout . . . .AMEN!

2007-08-22T16:46:00.000-07:00

Today is a special day; simply because in today's segment, we see light at the end of the tunnel. That's right, no matter what you're going through in your marriages, our Lord says that there is relief; and you don't have to see it to know that it's there. Kind of like the wind. (smiles)

Typically marriages today are never without incident, and more often than not we all face difficult times. Be it natural, physical, or spiritual, there are dilemmas we face and if we're honest, we really don't know what to do about them. Listen to the scriptures: Job 14:1 Man that is born of a woman is of few days and full of trouble. Now isn't that interesting? As soon as we enter into this world, we seem to be destined for some type of trouble. With marriages, it just seems to multiply. Nevertheless, with all of that; there is still hope and refuge. Where does it come from? I'm so glad you asked. It comes from The Lord. Psalm 40:4 Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies. Matthew 6:8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. Do you see what I'm getting at? Contrary to what we may think, our lives and our marriages are in God's hand. Our only responsibility is to trust Him. Here is the most important scripture of this entire blog.

Please read and and understand it. It will surely bless you, and if your marriage is in trouble today, your solution is in this scripture. What you don't know can hurt you, so remember this one thing: Isaiah 57:13 When thou cryest, let thy companies deliver thee; but the wind shall carry them all away; vanity shall take them: but he that putteth his trust in me shall possess the land, and shall inherit my holy mountain; you see, many times we look in the wrong places for our answers, and because we think in ourselves that God doesn't really see our struggles, we will not seek His help. Typical! Hebrews 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

Why so many scriptures today one may ask. It is a day that God wants you readers to hear more from Him rather than from me. His Word is the key. It's good for our sicknesses, our weakness, our shortcomings, our problems, our concerns, our heartaches, troubles, our dilemmas, and most of all our marriages. His word, the true medicine. Marriage without His word is like walking blindfolded on top of a Cliff.

My message today is really about taking the heavy load off your hearts and minds in your marriages. There is truly a source for help, but it's not of this world. It must come from above. If I didn't believe it, I would not sit in front of my computer day after day sharing what God has given me to give to you! Trust me, it works. Jeremiah 17:7 Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. The only reason you visit a store to purchase an item is because you believe that it has what you're looking for. . . . . get the point. . . . .need I say more. AMEN~

We're Blessed because He has Blessed us.

The End Results. . . . .

2007-08-21T02:23:00.000-07:00

John 8:31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; which is why today's segment is so important to your marriages.

As we have journeyed through life, we all have goals and dreams that sooner or later we desire that those things would come to pass; and by reason of health and strength if we continue, we achieve the "end results".

In marriage, it is the same way. Our "end results" depend solely on our willingness to continue down the path that God has set for us. The end results being. . . .happiness, health, healing, deliverance, joy, peace, contentment, love, and most of all the salvation of our souls.

The problem is simply this: many marriages have failed to continue in the instruction of God's word as the above scripture notes. Contrary to popular belief, marriage is a spiritual thing. Not a physical thing, not a sex thing, not a racial thing . . . . . .it's all spiritual! . . .and when you remove the spirituality from it, the "end results". . . . .divorce.

Divorce today is at an all time high, especially in the "church". Why? Most definitely because those marriages have taken God out of the equation. Categorically, most people place marriage in the "do want I want" column, but not so. Marriage is spiritual!

Call me a religious fanatic, holy roller, or even to mind my own business, but it still doesn't change the fact that marriage is spiritual; and the end results proves it!

You see my dear readers, people act on what they tend to believe, but the clause there is this:

you become what you believe, right or wrong! Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: so as you can see, it is so important to find out the truth in life, especially when it pertains to marriage. Can't you see, that it's the "end results" that really count. Luke 14:28 ) For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? How important that is.

Here's today's thought: Take your marriage serious, count up the cost. Take time to see what God says in his word concerning your marriage. (trust me, it's in there). Then continue in the things that you know are right based on what you have researched to find true, and afterwards, you will see that the proof is in the pudding; it will show you the "end results".

Let's all decide today, to be Blessed!

Never a dull moment. . . .

2007-08-19T14:38:00.000-07:00

The topic of our subject today deals with balancing your marriage. As the header of this blog says: "never a dull moment"; and it should always be that way in your marriages.

Now if you think that because I am an evangelist-preacher, that I sit around all day and read the Bible and pray, you are sadly mistaken.

That's only for those hypocrites who try and hide behind the church while they do their dirt behind closed doors. Sorry, that's not me.

In fact, as I have learned from the Lord, that you need a little spice in your life, that's right, your marriage will turn to mud if you don't have a little fun!

In the book of Ecclesiastes, it reads: There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God. Ecclesiastes 2:24. So you see, even God expects you to enjoy life, especially in marriage.

Too often marriages are run down, dry with no life; only because we have failed to mix a little enjoyment along with the serious stuff.

It's a fact! As individuals as well as marriages, we must create a balance in your life. All work and no play is just as detrimental as all play and nothing taken seriously. Listen to the scriptures: Ecclesiastes 22For what hath man of all his labour, and of the vexation of his heart, wherein he hath laboured under the sun?
23For all his days are sorrows, and his travail grief; yea, his heart takes not rest in the night. This is also vanity.

As you can see, living life day by day is challenge enough. When you have taken on a partner to face these challenges, it becomes even more difficult and many times stressful, so how do we balance our lives and marriages? It's so simple, Have some fun!, Ecclesiastes 3:13 And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God. (FOOTNOTE: )Please don't misunderstand what the Word is saying here: God is not talking about going out and boosing it up)(smiles)

So what are you waiting for. . . .grab your partner by the hand, give out a big smile and say: "come on honey, let's take a chill pill", tonight, it's just you and I. (Now remember, if you have children, (FIND A BABYSITTER), and have a little fun. . . .TOGETHER!! You may even want to have sex. It's not perverse, it's part of being married, and a good part I might add.

The message: Your marriages' rise or fall will depend on how well you both are able to balance out your relationship through the wisdom and understanding that is given to us by God. Yes, marriage is serious in God's eyesight, but it's still not a prison. You must learn the difference. Now, I have put this scripture in this blog twice, so that you will understand that Marriage God's way includes: taking a break from the hardships and challenges of life, to just have a little fun!

Ecclesiastes 3:13 And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God. Be sure not to forget that!

Permit me to close with this: MARRIAGE WITH NO PLAY WILL SURELY DRIVE YOU BOTH AWAY. . . if you believe it, that's good, but if you receive it . . . .then. . . . . .

You are Blessed!

Common Ground. . .

2007-08-18T01:33:00.000-07:00

From the scripture in the Bible called Isaiah, comes our topic of today's segment; "Common Ground".

Isaiah 1:18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

As you can see, in this particular scripture, Isaiah was declaring a plea from God to mankind saying that no matter what situation you're in or how bad you may think it is, if you come together with me, we can reason, and find common ground. Now since God has fashion the church after a marriage, the same rules seem to apply with marriages.

You may think that your set of circumstances or situations are hopeless and perhaps unsolvable, but I'm here to tell you "Not so". You can find "common ground".

Common ground is the ability for two individual entities to come together as one and find a solution that they both agree on. Please my dear readers, do not get common ground confused with compromise. They are not the same!

Compromise is also coming together and finding a solution, however, the solutions are sometimes against principles that you don't necessarily agree with but are willing to overlook just to come to terms. Please understand that. On the other hand, with common ground, both parties are satisfied having not given up or forfeiting certain principles that are right and still arriving at a solution.

Common ground is one of the most important factors in a marriage relationship. Having the ability and the willingness to find this common ground is a sign of true love, or in my opinion, "real love".

Even in the Holy scriptures, God has set in the church key ministries to ensure this:
Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: Ephesians 4:13 . . . .in other words, common ground.

How important it is for marriages to find common ground. Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed? Certainly not, they must find common ground.

Every day in our lives, there will be challenges of life. Some very simple, and some not so simple; nevertheless, as a marriage team if you will, should always be able to find that common ground in every situation. It's almost like the "the power of agreement". . .
Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.
Matthew 18:19 .Well, common ground sort of works the same way.

Imagine buying a brand new carriage and two strong horses. Put one horse in the front of the carriage and the other horse behind the carriage but turning them in different directions. I don't have to tell you how ridiculous that sounds not to mention the ending results. Although unpractical as that may seem, many marriages today have done exactly that with their relationships dealing with life's issues; and the results, naturally are always disastrous.

Here's my point: Finding common ground is the only viable way to build a strong marriage relationship. Even in my own life when problems occur, it is a joy to have my wife standing by my side to find a common ground solution. You should try it, then you'll understand what I'm saying here.

Certainly our individuality is not disturbed when we join with another individual to find common ground. It's called "Marriage". Have you ever stop to ask yourself why even the legal system recognizes two people having lived together for a certain period of time and never getting married, but call it " common law"? Although, God doesn't recognize common law marriages, He still supports the principle of common law. These two have come together and established a common ground of existence. In other words, they have come in agreement! Can you see that now? It's all about finding common ground. If you do it, it will revolutionize your marriage forever!

Remember, common ground says that you both are Blessed!

It takes Two. . . .

2007-08-14T14:45:00.001-07:00

In today's segment, we address the participation of two in a marriage.

Typically, when married couples are beginning their journey through marriage, they at first want to do everything together, or perhaps it may just seem that way. Nevertheless, the successful workmanship of that couple, builds their own little empire together. It's kind of a team working as one entity. Get my drift?

In every instance, two is better that one. Even the scriptures tell us that as well: Ecclesiastes 4:9 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.

When you are attempting to prepare or repair, it is always best to do it together. Marriages often fail simply for that reason alone. It is imperative to take on this life commitment together. Even when making important decisions concerning your welfare, both parties should be included. There should never be a dictatorship in marriage. It's not fare and besides; you are depriving your marriage of true growth. Your togetherness carries alone, an authority that you don't have as an individual. Want me to explain? My pleasure.

The mere fact that your marriage operates as one entity is an authority and a (testimony) to the world that you both have settled in your hearts and minds that your marriage flourishes because of your stand of oneness or togetherness. It also acts as a deterrent to outsiders and warns them not to try to interfere with this marriage union. That's pretty powerful, I'd say. Even in situations of indecision, two is without question better than one alone. It's sort of a parallel to your walk in Christ too! Psalm 133:1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! As you can see, just the act of working together provides the advantage of sharing and planning your life, and you're doing with someone you truly love. Amen! That alone is worth it all!

Here's the test: Start to plan and prepare your goals and aspirations in life for your marriage; and do it together. That's right, take the time to do it! Nothing ever turns out right without the proper planning, so take some time. You will find that you are building an un-penetrable future for your marriage, and that's what really makes it last. Get it? It will only happen, when you do it TOGETHER!

This is your day to be Blessed!

Picking up the Pieces. . .

2007-08-14T08:14:00.000-07:00

Today we address a catastrophic casualty; which are marriages that have been destroyed.

In our segment today, we offer some alternatives for these destroyed marriages, and in a way you'll be "picking up the pieces.

Typically when a tangible item has been broken, we usually try and pick of the pieces, simply to try and reassemble or put it back together. Why? . . . .because it is valuable to you. Today, I'd like to try and do the same thing with your broken marriages. Let's take a look at some interesting facts.

Most broken marriages erupt usually when a breach of trust is revealed or possibly a conflict of hidden interest comes to the surface. At that point, the two involved parties have determined that the furtherance of this relationship is not going to work. Wrong answer!!

Piking up the pieces should be your first line of strategy. It is commonly known around the globe, that broken marriages erupt from a lack of communication. Getting to the source of a problem is very important. It's not the whats and the whens that should be looked into, it's always the whys that you should be concerned with. Intelligent people don't just act without reason. It is at that point that communication should comes into play, the first step of picking up the pieces. Step number (2) should be the revealing of honesty. True to thy self, then true to your mate.Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed? Agreement doesn't mean that you think the same or that your views on the subject are the same. It simply means that you both have found a common ground of understanding about the same thing. If you identify it, you can change it, but only if you're willing to "pick up the pieces". You see, divorce is actually a punishment, not an easy out. I would look closely at one who would so easily want divorce above trying to save what is precious! That is an issue concerning "motive".

So what are we saying here today? As in building a marriage relationship, it is a process, so is the re-building of one. Picking up the pieces is the beginning. Think about it. Once you have become one, joined in Holy matrimony and establish that relationship, why would you want to loose a part of yourself?
1 Corinthians 7:4 The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.

When accidentally you strike your hand with a hammer, do you cut off the other hand that hit it? Of course not, even though it wasn't intentional, and you were hurt by it, you still want it to heal, why? . . .because you're gonna need it later. (smiles) As it is with your broken marriage. A real marriage is necessary for both. Reconciliation is the best antidote for damaged relationships and broken marriages.

Now let's recap. In Picking up the pieces we understand that it is a process. First and foremost we communicate, secondly we lay our cards on the table identify the issue through honesty. Thirdly to seek for reconciliation and repair. Lastly, of course as always, seek through the Holy scriptures for answers about yourself. You may be surprised what you find. When you are able to know your self, it becomes so much easier to interact with others, especially your mate.

Now I know that your problems aren't solved today, but if you start the process of picking up the pieces, you will find results that you never imagined were possible.

. . . . .and as always. . . . Stay Blessed!

and it all works by . . . .LOVE.

2007-08-13T13:38:00.000-07:00

Of course in today's segment, we address what some may think of as a simple emotion, Love. However, it isn't that simple. True, love is definately an emotion; but what about the rest of it's attributes?

1 Corinthians 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profits me nothing. 4 Charity suffers long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. Charity as the scriptures describes is LOVE!

Note: Couples should never marry unless the element of Love is present. I repeat NEVER! As you can see, Love is not only an emotion, but it is an action as well. Marriages do not survive without this ingredient. On the other hand, Love is a process. Let me explain.

Many people ask is there Love at first sight. Well, not really, it's an infatuation at first brought on by your senses. First you look, then you like, then you pursue. Love comes after you develop that relationship which then causes two people to then make choices; and those choices include complete lifestyle changes. If your life style has not changed since marriage, there's definitely something wrong in your relationship, and it could very well be missing the element of Love; true love that is.

What's the message here: Your marriages must work on foundational truths: such as Love. When true love is in action, it is literally just that, in action! Get it? It's an action, not just a feeling. Your feeling change constantly! Love never changes. . . .it's always the same. Sometimes we think we love when we really don't. Love accepts, receives, perceives, perseveres, endures, understands, along with so many other characteristics, where emotions only receives and reacts. Read the above scriptures again and you'll see what I'm saying here. Emotions change based on circumstances, but never Love. Think about it!

How do you stop loving; if it's really love? You may want to ask yourself that question.

It's all in the book, the Holy Bible that is. Take a little time out of your schedule and compare your marriages with this Devinne book of revelations. It's the blueprint for a successful marriage relationship.

Always remember, it won't work, unless it works by Love!

God Bless You!

I Do. . . . a chapter from my book!

2007-08-12T20:42:00.000-07:00

It all starts in today's segment with the simple words: "I Do". Of course as you know, it is the smallest phrase yet the most binding in the situation called Marriage.

Just the words alone set a new course in the lives to the two individuals who declare this phrase. I do is a contract, an agreement, a submission, and an unconditional commitment. It is witnessed by both God and man so that it is clearly understood and recognized, that these two people have joined to become one.

Genesis 2:24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. Significantly enough, the scriptures always refer to leaving one's place or state of mind, to get to the next place. It's even practical, for example, you can't stay in Philadelphia if you trying to get to California. Make sense?

As you can see, it is our willingness and decision to leave some things behind in order to affect the completeness in our lives as it pertains to marriage.

How sad it is that marriages have not worked out because of our failure to leave some things behind us. It is a choice however, that must be made in order to fulfill the requirements of the marriage bond. There is just no way around it!

Your declaration, when you pronounce to two little words "I Do" say that you by choice are willfully entered into this marriage bond to commit and to submit to the guidelines, (all outlined in the Holy Bible) and conditions set forth through your vows; in sickness and in health, until death do you part, in good times, in the bad times, hard times, good times, for rich or for poor, and etc. This is the mind set of heart that must be present to make a marriage of God's way a reality in both your lives.

Further, the I do declaration requires equal involvement and sharing of one's self, in love, trust, commitment, and responsibility, and most of all faithfulness. Last of all, but not the least, the willingness to adhere to the biblical instruction through the Word of God that will ensure that your marriages are kept in spiritual harmony. 2 Corinthians 13:11 Finally, brethren, Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you. You see my dear friends, everything in a marriage God's way hinges upon our obedience to the higher authority, Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Here's the message: I do: to God. . . .I do: to your mate. . . .I do: to the instruction of the Holy scriptures. . . .and if you do these things, your marriages will be both fulfilled and complete. I know. . . . . .because I do!

May your day be filled with Blessings from above!

What's in it for me . . . ?

2007-08-07T03:33:00.000-07:00

The following scriptures represent the baseline of today's topic: 2 Corinthians 9:6 But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Galatians 6:7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

As you can see, the efforts that we put into our marriage relationships subsequently produces a fruit or determines the integrity of our marriages.

Stop and think, have we really committed everything that we can to our mates? Are we in total agreement of submitting ourselves to one another to ensure that nothing can penetrate that bond of love? It is the quality of our marriages that is really lacking. You see, growth never happens without an initial investment; or sowing if you will, and our investment should first be in our marriages. (not to the church) Just a footnote: your ability to be used by God in ministry is predicated on how you handle your personal life first, so don't get that mixed up. Your first ministry is with your spouse!

The scriptures that are referenced above, emphatically tells us that our lack of input results in a lack of growth for our relationship. These things are not options. . . . . they are necessary and mandated by the scriptures. There should be no promiscuity in marriage. It is an intentional commitment (or should be), between the two parties who have vowed a vow.

As in the financial world of investments, you will note that the greater the investment, the larger the return. Therefore, the law of seed and harvest is in affect and actually a biblical principle that can be applied in many ways. Not only for tangible things like money, but in principle, the sincere and true investment of both married parties to create an un-penetratable bond and relationship which reflects the oneness of a marriage; and the results: Luke 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be .measured to you again.

Of course you may ask, how is that relevant: here's how: the quality, not the quantity of your input into your marriage(very very important) is what will determine it's essence. That means whether it's genuine and has substance, you know. . . . if it's for real! A superficial giving of one's self will always show up in the balances. It's like a role play or, to put it bluntly, just an act, no substance, no sincerity, no commitment, no real love or intimate desire, it's all just an act! How sad.

Nevertheless, I have some good news! Your marriage doesn't have to be that way. You have the power to change it! That's right, and it's all written down for you. Yes. . . . .you've guessed it. The Holy Bible. The Word of Almighty God. It will change your marriage and transform it into such a joy until you can't wait to wake up every morning and share another day with your mate! Hallelujah! Oh. . . . .and by the way. . . . . that's what's in it for you!

How Blessed it is to be Blessed!

The Covenant

2007-08-06T02:39:00.000-07:00

Did you know that when you marry, you are actually entering into a life time covenant with each other? Well in today's segment, we will understand better why our marriages through a covenant has special privileges.

In the book of 1 Corinthians 11:26 For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come; Paul the Apostle is explaining the symbolic act of communion to the church. By eating the Holy bread which represent the bruised and beaten body of Christ; and drinking the wine, which represents the shed blood of Jesus Christ for our sins, we enter into an everlasting covenant with God. So it is the same, when we speak the words: "I Do", we also enter into a covenant (for life) with our mates. Again, why this is so important, it relinquishes the self-will of each party involved.

Genesis 17:7 And I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee. As you can see, even in Moses's time, God establishes a covenant with mankind, as He does now, and surprisingly enough, He also has set forth a plan for man and woman to establish a like covenant. It's called "Marriage".

When you enter into a covenant, you actually now take on the ownership of each other. Let me explain. In a marriage, you agree through the act of a ceremony, to vow to each other that now, before God and man, you two are now one entity. Remember. . . ".no more twain but one". Don't you see, it's an exchange ; companionship replaces loneliness, love replaces the emptiness in heart, Independence is replaced with partnership; and with that, you now have the power of agreement. Matthew 18:19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. You see. . . . .two becoming one with the authority of 10,000. I know it sounds a little deep, but it is the reality of the scriptures instructing us of the benefits of a covenant relationship.

It's so important my friends to re-evaluate your marriages and dig into the Holy scriptures to find out what your rights really are. A covenant with God and a covenant with your mate is the best insurance policy you will ever know.

So now it's your turn. . . . .search the scriptures, (read your policy) and find out the benefits that it offers. That's right, find why it is so important for marriage God's way to operate in your relationship. I know for a fact that what you don't know can indeed hurt you! Remember, it's your covenant!

Always be Blessed!

Marriage. . .Profound or Profane

2007-08-05T02:37:00.000-07:00

In today's segment, we look into the institution of marriage and how we view it's real meaning. We understand that from the very beginning, God instituted the marriage bond.

In Genesis 2:18 And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.

You see, God knew that Adam (the first natural man) could handle having dominion over the earth, he just didn't want him to do it alone. Many times in our marriage relationships, we operate as independent entities. When I looked up the word "profane", I noticed that it represented the act of going against that which was sacred. In other words, acting against, or not reverencing that which was sacred. When we act outside of the parameters of that which God has set forth in a marriage, we actually make our marriage profane; and is one reason why marriages don't last.

Even in practical life, assembling a table, or cabinet, and not following the directions given to you by the inventors, usually ends up being thrown in the trash. Why?. . . .simply because it becomes unusable if it is not assembled properly.

The same applies to the marriage union. If the principles and guidelines set forth by God throughout the Holy scriptures are not followed to the letter, the results are . . . .well I don't have to tell you. . . .see for yourself: chaos, disarray, unhappiness, discontentment, often abuse, and ultimately divorce. That's certainly not how God planned it.

Did you pick the wrong mate? Of course not, you just didn't follow the instructions.

On the other hand, when looking up the word "profound", I found the meaning to be a knowledgeable depth. Interesting isn't it? Webster also categorized as "unbreakable". Wow, now that's amazing!

Just by following the rules and guidelines of God's word for marriage, will cause a depth that is unbreakable. Ha Ha Ha. . . .Praise God. I'm getting happy now, so I'd better close with this:

Which one is it for your marriage? "PROFANE or PROFOUND"? You know the choice is really yours. As my wife says to me constantly, "why don't you try reading the instructions". . . .you should try it too! . . . .It'll make all the difference in the world in your marriage!

Marriage God's Way. . . .it's really Profound!

Be Blessed!

Time Out . . . !

2007-08-04T02:56:00.000-07:00

Hello dear precious readers. . . . .I am out of town in Revival where it is difficult to get to a computer. Please bare with me for a couple of days until I return. I promise to come right back with more of Marriage God's Way insights! So keep looking up, and always remember. . . .

You are Blessed!

Molly, Me, and the Devil makes Three. . .!

2007-08-02T11:19:00.000-07:00

Although it's a funny title, trust me, it's a very serious matter! That's why in today's segment, we discuss the power of prayer in your marriages. Note: "the power of prayer engaged everyday. . will be sure to keep the enemy away".

Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. . . As you can see it is vital and a must, that the married couple pray. It is even more effective and powerful however, if you can find the time to pray together. Many marriages as well as individual lives are bombarded with attacks from (old slew-foot), that's right, the devil. Although the forces are invisible, they carry a devastating impact on the two people that have joined together to become one!

Luke 21:36 Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. Not only should you pray for the protection of your marriage, but also that you pray to be held accountable for your walk in faith in your marriage. Please don't take this lightly, because God doesn't. . . .Luke 18:1 And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint; simply meaning that your prayers should become a consistent part of your life, especially in marriages.

The enemy doesn't want to see you get along, nor does he want to see your marriage grow. Positive thinking, therapeutic mind sets, philosophy, religiosity, and any other motivational thinking technique will not work. . . . YOU MUST PRAY! Listen to the Holy scriptures: Ephesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. You see, the natural man/woman have no defense against the evil forces of Satan. It's going to take Prayer!

Find the time to pray for your marriage, it not only will quicken your alertness to unseen attitudes that may try to crop up in your relationship. Be aware of snappy answers, changes in behaviors. These are all signs of the unseen forces that try to penetrate the oneness of your marriage relationship. 2 Corinthians 2:11 Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices. (very important).

Now do you think Molly and me is sufficient? Of course you do. . . . .Keep the devil out of your marriage. PRAY!

You are always Blessed!

Compliments to You. . .

2007-07-31T11:09:00.000-07:00

In today's segment, we address the simplicity of compliments. Compliments of course for your significant other, ( your wife or husband) in most cases.

Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; and likewise: Colossians 3:18 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.

In the two significant, scriptures above, notice that they both reference a responsibility of loving one another. How important that is. Not just in the sense of having love for each other, but rather showing that love in very simple ways. . . .one being: compliments!

Compliments show your companion that you are noticing them, that you are admiring them, and most important, that you recognize them as being a part of (this marriage).

Contrary to popular beliefs, compliments are ties that refuel a marriage. They create a sense of belonging and attachment. Although, females more so that males appreciate compliments, it is still always a welcome jester. Compliments have always been a sign of approval and confirmation, if you will. It is the detonator for the C-4. . . or in other words, it is the fire that ignites the explosion of love and passion for your marriage.

It is actually a joy to compliment your spouse. After all, you are a part of each other! Listen to the scriptures: Proverbs 5:18 Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth; Ephesians 5:33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

You see, over and over again, the Bible encourages rejoicing, reverence, love, compassion, yes, and even compliments. These simple things, all develop your oneness, which the Bible declares emphatically, that your : "nor more twain but one" as Jesus spoke in Matthews, chapter 19, is the foundational principle for a marriage God's way!

Do you compliment your wife or husband? Have you ever looked in the mirror at yourself and admired your attire? Well, with the same enthusiasm, we should look at our mates. . . .and . . . .

just compliment them! You'll be surprised at the results!

God Bless your marriages today!

Skeletons in the closet ?

2007-07-30T00:23:00.000-07:00

For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. . . as noted in Galatians 6:3. Why this passage of scripture one might ask. Simply because it deals with the subject matter of today's segment. "Skeletons in the closet".

Skeletons in the closet refers usually to things that we have hidden from our past and sometimes present, that we really don't want others to know about us; and sadly enough, many times we hide these things from even our mates.
As referenced in the above scripture; when we purpose to betray something that we are not, we are in reality deceiving others as well as ourselves.
In a marriage relationship, that's even worse. The basic principles of marriage dictates that we should first display trust, not deception! In our marital experiences, our ability to be "upfront" with each other is the basis of a sound and lasting relationship. Anything short of that, usually ends up in calamity, falsehood , and distrust.
As becoming one in marriage, of course it is most important to establish trust, since we no longer belong to ourselves. . . . . 1 Corinthians 7:4 The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.
As you have seen in the Holy scriptures, the husband as well as the wife have the responsibility of possession. . . . meaning there is no place for skeletons, or secrets from each other. As we are true to ourselves, we must also be true to our spouse.
Even in scripture we are compelled to display honesty:
1 Timothy 2:2 (Whole Chapter) For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
Always remember this, . . . .how you begin a relationship usually dictates it's well being and will always determine it's outcome.
Get rid of those "skeletons in your closets". . . .it just may make the difference in your marriages and develop a whole new heart felt marriage relationship!
Be true to yourself and then, be true to your mate. . . your marriage depends on it!
Now you are Blessed!

For Richer or for Poor. . . .til death !

2007-07-29T23:10:00.000-07:00

Sound familiar? Well in today's segment, that's exactly what we are going to address: " for richer or for poor".

Typically in many marriages today, we don't usually have a problem with the "rich" part of our wedding vows; it's the "poor" part of it. The vow, although in it's context refers to finances, it is also symbolic to the unconditional commitment the husbands and wives make to each other in their wedding ceremonial vows. The scriptures refers to this unconditional act as cleaving.

The Holy scriptures refers to cleaving throughout the Bible. Here is just one of them: . . Genesis 2:24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. Notice the word "cleave" in the Holy scriptures as it pertains to your relationship with God. . . .
Joshua 22:5 But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD charged you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul. As you can see, cleaving represents the unconditional commitment in your relationship with God as well as in marriage.

The marriage institution is a set of foundational principles, passed down by God, based on the commitment and our willingness to abide by them by choice. Your choice says: I will. . . . .and your commitment says: "for richer or for poor, til death". Did you get that?

No matter what the situation or the circumstance that may arise in your marriage relationship, your commitment to each other as husband and wife, declares to the world, (both God and man) that you will stand the test of life together!. . . and to put this commitment in an even more perspective, I refer to Paul in his writing to the church at Rome:
Romans 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
Romans 8:39 ) Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

This is with question, the same commitment we have made in our marriages, believe it or not; so what's the message here?. . . . Marriage does not work without these commitments!

Your commitment (for rich or for poor) is the key element in your marriage that becomes the foundation and the vehicle for the enrichment of your relationship.

Take retrospect of your commitment in your marriage, it'll tell the true story. . . .after all God has already seen.

Be thou Blessed among all !

Damaged Goods !

2007-07-27T14:17:00.001-07:00

In today's segment, we discuss a subject matter of a very important nature; "damaged goods".

What exactly is damaged goods, one might ask. Well, in the normal context of that phase, it is a product that just does not function properly; and in most cases, it is returned and replaced with another of the same product.

However, in a marital relationship, the same set of circumstances may exist (damaged goods: that person who is wounded in heart and spirit), but the unfortunate thing in marriage situations, we just can't return a person in for another. That's just not practical. In many such cases however, we are not able to give of ones self to the other completely, and not allowing that oneness to flourish in our marriages as it should, in other words, not able to function properly or as we should.

And in marriage, returning that other person in for a replacement, is just not reality, although many seem to try and do just that in today's society; so let's talk about the damaged goods in a marital relationship.

Many times we encounter situations and experiences in our lives where one of the two or both have been involved in an unpleasant relationship; either through infidelity, unfaithfulness, abuse, deception, heartbreak, desertion, and etc; you have then become "damaged goods".

The unfortunate thing however, is that we sometimes bring these hurts along with us into our marital relationships, causing an inconsistency in our ability to trust! (very important). Damaged goods prevent us from opening up to the other simply for the fear of opening old wounds. Suspicion is always in the forefront, and the intimacy is most likely conditional. It is almost literally impossible to build a marriage relationship with damaged goods. Let's face it, it's pretty hard to establish a good sound, heart felt relationship or even anticipate a new one if you have been (raked through the coals already), and even the Lord understands that! But I have some good news for you!

My dear readers, be of good cheer!. . . . God always has a solution for damaged goods. It's called "healing". Let's take a look at the scriptures and hear the instruction of the Lord and see what results it brings:
Exodus 15:26 And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee. You see, just as God was able to deliver His people out of the slavery, and the pestilence conditions (key word) of Egypt after so many years, He promised them healing as well as deliverance. Do you see that?

Damaged goods is a condition of the heart and mind; but God has promised a healing for you. . . .under the conditions of adhering to His word. How excellent is He. . .how faithful is He that has promised. Hallelujah!

Without question, my dear friends, there is healing for "damaged goods". Won't you allow the Lord today to change your damaged condition of hurt, disappointment, and dismay in your marriage? It's never too late. You see, the process starts with YOU. . . .trusting God. It is His creative power and love that desires to make you "brand new". Are you Damaged goods? Just in case you thought that you were at the end, and that there is no more hope, take these words and write them down and carry them with you:

Revelation 1:8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. Revelation 21:6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.

It changed my life and marriage, it'll do the same for you!

How wonderfully Blessed you are!