For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders…. -Mark 7:21, KJV When the Jesus talks about sin here, he is very clear about its origin. Sin proceeds–i.e. originates–from the heart of the sinner. This is basic theology. I am saddened by how so many pastors and Christian counselors … Continue reading “Marriage pressures and adultery”
Author: Divorce Minister
Goal of peace
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. -Romans 12:18, NIV Notice what this verse does and does NOT say: 1. It does NOT say–or set the expectation–that we are friends with everyone. 2. It DOES say–i.e. acknowledges–that peace with some people is impossible. These are very important … Continue reading “Goal of peace”
No bitterness AND justice
The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. -Ezekiel 18:20, KJV Some Christians think talking about “your … Continue reading “No bitterness AND justice”
Give Thanks!
Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ… -Ephesians 5:20, KJV God instructs us to give thanks in all times and all circumstances. I think this spiritual discipline–as it takes effort–is critical to spiritual well-being. As we open our eyes to His gifts to … Continue reading “Give Thanks!”
While expensive, breaking free worth it!
Owe nothing to anyone—except for your obligation to love one another. -Romans 13:8a, NLT When dealing with divorce, you are dealing with a financially devastating situation. It is painful. Maybe you set aside your career for this person? Maybe you are relying on them as you try to find your next job? Maybe you … Continue reading “While expensive, breaking free worth it!”
Stay married for “holiness”? Really?!
25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be … Continue reading “Stay married for “holiness”? Really?!”
Fruitful words of encouragement
Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. -Proverbs 18:21, KJV Do you have someone who is speaking life into your life right now? Are you speaking life into your own life? I remember vividly a time when I was entering a Walmart. … Continue reading “Fruitful words of encouragement”
Labelled the problem?
Anyone else here given a label by a counselor identifying YOU as the marriage problem? This assumes the cheater comes to counseling. Some don’t. A problem with counselors is that some are not up on the games cheaters play. They become complicit in the act of keeping the faithful spouse off the scent of what … Continue reading “Labelled the problem?”
True Shepherds Care and Do NOT Use Fear!
“I will place shepherds over them who will tend them, and they will no longer be afraid or terrified, nor will any be missing,” declares the Lord. -Jeremiah 23:4, NIV One of the sad lessons I have picked up over the years is how to spot bad, spiritually abusive pastors. The probably biggest clue to … Continue reading “True Shepherds Care and Do NOT Use Fear!”
Complex feelings
Yesterday, I received some disappointing news regarding a management job I interviewed to get. I did not get the job. I would be lying to say I did not feel sad, angry, and disappointed about this. Yet I also feel relief and hope that, perhaps, God is directing even this disappointment for my good (see … Continue reading “Complex feelings”