Golden Keyes Parsons's Blog, page 10

31 Ways to Mess Up Your Marriage – #23 – Seeking Revenge

31 Ways to Mess Up Your Marriage
#23 Seeking Revenge

Sometimes in a marriage one spouse will seek revenge because of wounds inflicted by their partner. Needless to say this is not the way a believer is to react to hurt or pain. We are to give a blessing instead of an insult. We are to bless and not curse (I Peter 3:9).

Dr. Phil (yes, I watch Dr Phil was interviewing a couple the other day who had been devastated by one affair after another. It all started when the husband had an affair, then the wife retaliated by having her own affair; then the husband had another and on and on it went until the marriage was wrecked on the rocks of revenge.

However, what I want to address at this point is a terrible situation that at times may evolve from a felt need for revenge … and that is abuse. Childish one-upmanship can escalate into an issue that is much more serious.

We received a call one evening from a man telling us that we needed to get to their house right away, because he had already hit his wife, and didn’t know what he was going to do next. We raced to their residence to find two wide-eyed children, a wife sitting at the kitchen table with her broken glasses in front of her, and a ranting husband pacing back and forth. The wife had done something to hurt him, and he felt justified in striking her. We found out this was not a one-time occurrence, but something that happened with regularity.

Let me be very clear about this: God does not intend for a wife — or husband — to remain in an abusive situation. (Tweet this!) He does not give grace for that. He gives wisdom for you to make the decision to seek safety for you and your children. This is the one situation where my husband and I advise separation until the offending party can seek counseling to deal with the underlying cause of the abuse.

Unfortunately, as far as we know, the wife in the previous scenario never got out of the danger her husband placed her and her children under. She chose to try to keep him appeased. The tragedy is that although they may have remained married, unless he received some help, the harm done to the children and his wife had to be severe and greatly hinder their emotional health.

Don’t let a silly desire to get even escalate into something much more harmful, even dangerous. (Tweet this!) Give a blessing, not a curse.

Do you find it hard to resist the urge to retaliate toward your spouse when you are hurt?
What blessings have you felt the Lord give you when you’ve chosen to bless and not curse your spouse in your pain?

 

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends and subscribe to my blog and newsletter below. You will receive my modern short story version of ‘Trapped: The Adulterous Woman’ in your thank you email.

The post 31 Ways to Mess Up Your Marriage – #23 – Seeking Revenge appeared first on Golden Keyes Parsons.

Fiction Friday! – Interview With The Woman Caught in Adultery – Part 2

A Fictional Interview With the Woman Caught in Adultery

Part Two
Taken from the Biblical Account in John 8:1-11

Here we are for Part 2 of our interview with Anna, from Trapped! The Adulterous Woman. Thank you again, Anna, for visiting with us. Women through the ages have gained such inspiration and comfort from your story.

Q – When you were thrown in front of the priest at the Temple and you realized it was Jesus, what were your thoughts?

A – Because I had met him before, I was so embarrassed. I hoped he wouldn’t recognize me, but I could tell from the look in his eyes that he did. I couldn’t look at him. I was so frightened of the men standing in the circle around him, holding rocks, ready to stone me as soon as Jesus gave his judgment. I was trembling so hard I couldn’t stand up. I fell at his feet with my face in the dirt. I’ll never forget the grit of the dirt in my mouth, and the taste of blood from my cut lip. I was expecting a rock to hit me at any moment.

Q – What did Jesus say to the accusations?

A – He didn’t say anything. I think he knew they were simply trying to trap him. It grew very quiet.

Q – Of course, the question in everyone’s mind is about the writing in the sand. What was it that Jesus wrote?

A – You are not going to be satisfied with my answer, I’m afraid. I thought he was going to scoop up a handful of dust, mix it with water and make me drink it to fulfill the law of the jealous husband as set out in Leviticus. If my stomach bloated, it would mean I was guilty. If it didn’t, it meant I was innocent, but I was guilty. I’d been caught in the very act.

Instead he wrote in the sand for several minutes. As he wrote, the men left one by one.

Q – So what did he write?

A – This is what you are not going to want to hear. I don’t know.

Q – You don’t know?

A – I was so frightened all I could do was cringe at the feet of Jesus and weep. My eyes were closed. I heard the stones being dropped and the shuffle of feet as the men left. Then, too ashamed to look up, I felt Jesus take my hand and lift me to my feet. Holding my hands, he asked me, “Woman, where are your accusers? Has no man condemned you?”

I looked around and saw that everyone had left, and Jesus and I were standing alone in the middle of the court. I shook my head. “No one, Lord.”

He covered me with my torn robe the best he could and said, “I do not condemn you either. Go on your way, and from now on sin no more.” And I did. I left, ran from the Temple.

(Next week, I’ll ask Anna about her life after that fateful day in the Temple. Join us then!)

Q – There’s so much we can discuss here, but what is the main thing you would like our readers to glean from your story?

A – There’s always forgiveness with the Lord. No one is too far gone to accept his grace and turn their lives around. And one other thing, if I may …

Q – Certainly.

A – We must not forget Jesus’s parting words to me, “Go, and sin no more.” The forgiveness of Jesus was a springboard into a life of freedom, not back into the sin which enslaved me in the first place. My feet were set upon a new and righteous path.

Q – Thank you, Anna, for the insights into your story. I, for one, will never read that account from John 8 in the same way again.

 Questions for my readers. Please leave your comments below…

What do you think of how Jesus responded to this trap set by the Pharisees for both him and Anna?
What do you think Jesus wrote in the sand?
What is your favorite part of this famous Bible story?

 

If you would like to read the first chapter of “Trapped” CLICK HERE.

If you would like to order a copy of “Trapped” CLICK HERE.

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends and subscribe to my blog and newsletter below. You will receive my modern short story version of ‘Trapped: The Adulterous Woman’ in your thank you email.

 

The post Fiction Friday! – Interview With The Woman Caught in Adultery – Part 2 appeared first on Golden Keyes Parsons.

Interview With The Woman Caught in Adultery – Part 2

A Fictional Interview With the Woman Caught in Adultery

Part Two
Taken from the Biblical Account in John 8:1-11

Here we are for Part 2 of our interview with Anna, from Trapped! The Adulterous Woman. Thank you again, Anna, for visiting with us. Women through the ages have gained such inspiration and comfort from your story.

Q – When you were thrown in front of the priest at the Temple and you realized it was Jesus, what were your thoughts?

A – Because I had met him before, I was so embarrassed. I hoped he wouldn’t recognize me, but I could tell from the look in his eyes that he did. I couldn’t look at him. I was so frightened of the men standing in the circle around him, holding rocks, ready to stone me as soon as Jesus gave his judgment. I was trembling so hard I couldn’t stand up. I fell at his feet with my face in the dirt. I’ll never forget the grit of the dirt in my mouth, and the taste of blood from my cut lip. I was expecting a rock to hit me at any moment.

Q – What did Jesus say to the accusations?

A – He didn’t say anything. I think he knew they were simply trying to trap him. It grew very quiet.

Q – Of course, the question in everyone’s mind is about the writing in the sand. What was it that Jesus wrote?

A – You are not going to be satisfied with my answer, I’m afraid. I thought he was going to scoop up a handful of dust, mix it with water and make me drink it to fulfill the law of the jealous husband as set out in Leviticus. If my stomach bloated, it would mean I was guilty. If it didn’t, it meant I was innocent, but I was guilty. I’d been caught in the very act.

Instead he wrote in the sand for several minutes. As he wrote, the men left one by one.

Q – So what did he write?

A – This is what you are not going to want to hear. I don’t know.

Q – You don’t know?

A – I was so frightened all I could do was cringe at the feet of Jesus and weep. My eyes were closed. I heard the stones being dropped and the shuffle of feet as the men left. Then, too ashamed to look up, I felt Jesus take my hand and lift me to my feet. Holding my hands, he asked me, “Woman, where are your accusers? Has no man condemned you?”

I looked around and saw that everyone had left, and Jesus and I were standing alone in the middle of the court. I shook my head. “No one, Lord.”

He covered me with my torn robe the best he could and said, “I do not condemn you either. Go on your way, and from now on sin no more.” And I did. I left, ran from the Temple.

(Next week, I’ll ask Anna about her life after that fateful day in the Temple. Join us then!)

Q – There’s so much we can discuss here, but what is the main thing you would like our readers to glean from your story?

A – There’s always forgiveness with the Lord. No one is too far gone to accept his grace and turn their lives around. And one other thing, if I may …

Q – Certainly.

A – We must not forget Jesus’s parting words to me, “Go, and sin no more.” The forgiveness of Jesus was a springboard into a life of freedom, not back into the sin which enslaved me in the first place. My feet were set upon a new and righteous path.

Q – Thank you, Anna, for the insights into your story. I, for one, will never read that account from John 8 in the same way again.

 Questions for my readers. Please leave your comments below…

What do you think of how Jesus responded to this trap set by the Pharisees for both him and Anna?
What do you think Jesus wrote in the sand?
What is your favorite part of this famous Bible story?

 

If you would like to read the first chapter of “Trapped” CLICK HERE.

If you would like to order a copy of “Trapped” CLICK HERE.

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends and subscribe to my blog and newsletter below. You will receive my modern short story version of ‘Trapped: The Adulterous Woman’ in your thank you email.

 

The post Interview With The Woman Caught in Adultery – Part 2 appeared first on Golden Keyes Parsons.

31 Ways to Mess Up Your Marriage – #22 – Repressed Feelings

31 Ways to Mess Up Your Marriage
#22 Repressed Feelings

Many of us cope with pain by hiding how we really feel. There are a multitude of reasons for stuffing our feelings – fear of rejection or ridicule, not wanting to be vulnerable to another, fear of misunderstanding, a desire to avoid confrontation, etc. We tend to bury what hurts us, and the emotions go underground, but like a leak in a water pipe in the ground, they can do much damage. We can even become passive-aggressive toward our spouse.

A passive-aggressive person seeks to control others by various means: speaking cryptically in order to create a feeling of insecurity in others; feigning helplessness to control another; chronically being late and forgetting things in order to exert control or to punish; avoidance of intimacy as a means to act out anger; sulking.

Many people spend years repressing their true feelings, then cannot discern why they are so angry or feel such hurt. (Tweet this!) They have no idea how to resolve the conflict, but it must be dealt with in order that the marriage be healthy. Instead of being a healer in the marriage, the person who has stuffed his or her feelings becomes a wounder. James 5:16 tell us to confess our faults, one to another, that we may be healed. A life of transparency is the model that is given to believers. (Tweet this!)

Even though it may seem easier initially to repress one’s feelings, it is not the healthy, nor the right way to deal with pain. (Tweet this!) The Scripture tells us to “Speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). This Scripture is written to the Body of Christ, and as believing couples, it certainly would apply. We must speak. We must speak truth. And we must speak in love.

If you need help in dealing with repressed feelings, you may need a professional counselor. Consult your pastor to help you work through these issues or to refer you to a Christian counselor. It may be painful, and it may be messy to work through the emotions, but your marriage will benefit greatly from it.

Of the passive aggressive actions mentioned above, which ones do you recognize in yourself?
Have you and your spouse been able to work through repressed feelings and successfully reconnect after talking loving and honestly with one another?

 

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends and subscribe to my blog and newsletter below. You will receive my modern short story version of ‘Trapped: The Adulterous Woman’ in your thank you email.

The post 31 Ways to Mess Up Your Marriage – #22 – Repressed Feelings appeared first on Golden Keyes Parsons.

Fiction Friday! Interview With the Woman Caught in Adultery – Part 1

A Fictional Interview With the Woman Caught in Adultery
 Based on my Novella Trapped: The Adulterous Woman
Taken from the Biblical Account in John 8:1-11

Welcome to the first FICTION FRIDAY! As most of you know, I am both an author and a speaker. Therefore, we felt my blog should reflect that perspective. We are learning about blogging as we go! So once each week I will be writing a blog concerning my speaking topics, which will usually be on Tuesdays.

Then on Fridays, we will address a fiction topic, thus FICTION FRIDAY. Sometimes I will discuss an interesting historical bit of research; sometimes I will talk about writing fiction; sometimes I will interview a colleague of mine who is a fiction author as well; sometimes I will discuss the publishing world … and who knows what else? The world of fiction opens up all kinds of possibilities.

To kick off FICTION FRIDAY, I am going to be discussing my newest release, Hidden Faces: Portraits of Nameless Women In The Gospels. We’ve had such wonderful feedback on this compilation of my biblical fiction novellas. Of course, if you’ve not read it, I encourage you to do so. Keep it in mind for your women’s Bible study. I’ll be teaching it at my church in November. And, may I suggest, it would be a dynamic vehicle for a women’s retreat. For the first few blogs, I am going to interview different characters from the Nameless Women series.

Haven’t you imagined what you are going to do when you get to heaven? I’ve imagined that scenario so many times–finally seeing the Lord face to face, the family and friends with whom I want to reunite, the Bible characters I would like to meet, the clarity of thought … this could go on forever. After having explored the biblical accounts of these four nameless women from Scripture, I am eager to meet them when I get to heaven. 

So, as fiction writers often do, I would like to invite you to play “Let’s Pretend” with me. Let’s pretend we are in heaven, and I am sitting down to interview each of these women to explore their feelings and thoughts about the part they play in the biblical account. Today I am looking forward to interviewing Anna, the principal character from Trapped! The Adulterous Woman.

Q – Thank you for being with us today. My first question is, “Were you surprised that your story was included in the canon of Scripture?”

A – In a way, I suppose I was. Jesus performed so many miracles and healed so many people, spiritually and physically, that not all of them could possibly be recorded. But, I am humbly grateful that people through the years have been blessed and inspired and encouraged by the retelling of it. You do realize, I am sure, that some scholars doubt that the incident actually took place. I can assure you that it did.

Q – Why do you think your name was not mentioned?

A – Perhaps John wanted to protect my identity. I don’t really know. It really isn’t important though, is it?

Q – No, I suppose your actual name isn’t, but the story certainly is. I chose the name “Anna” for you. Are you pleased with that name?

A – Yes, it is a good name.

Q –  I have to ask. So many people upon reading the account, take for granted that the woman taken in adultery was a prostitute. Upon doing the research, I came to the conclusion that was not the case. Does that misconception trouble you?

A – I suppose it shouldn’t bother me, but it does. I was a foolish young girl, betrothed to a man of my parents’ choice, not mine, and chafed at the dilemma I was in. I became enamored with another man, and chose to follow my emotions rather than what I knew was right. As being willful and going one’s own way always does, it led me into a trap.

Q – A trap that was very cleverly set by the Pharisees to frame Jesus, but you were caught in it as well.

A – That’s right. Our enemy, Satan, is very skillful at enticing us into sin, then he condemns us when we step into it. You see, I was not a woman seeking to live outside of God’s will. It’s my opinion that most followers of Jesus, men and women, who fall into adulterous affairs don’t intend to do so. It’s one subtle misstep after another until they are … well, trapped. Trapped by their own emotions and foolish choices.

Q – Tell us how you escaped from that trap.

A – It was simply Jesus. He extended grace and forgiveness to me, and in doing so, confounded the Pharisees, sending them away in shame.

Q – Would you mind if I ask more personal questions?

A – Not at all.

Q – When the “holy men” burst into the room and caught you in the very act of adultery, that must have been terribly humiliating. What were your thoughts?

A – It was total chaos … loud noises, banging and shouting. I didn’t know what was happening at first. Then I realized Eli and I had been caught. As they dragged me down the stairs, it dawned on me they were taking me to the Temple. But I didn’t understand why they were not bringing Eli as well. The law states that both partners are to be brought before the priest. I didn’t understand why he didn’t try to defend me. I’ll never forget the look on his face, almost a smirk, as I was taken away.

Q – That must have been painful.

A – There was the physical pain of being dragged through the streets, bound by a rope. I was scratched, bloodied and bruised by the time we got to the Temple, not to mention that my torn robe barely covered my body. But the emotional pain was by far worse than the physical pain. By the time the men threw me in front of Jesus, I was hysterical. I was so embarrassed and shamed. I kept thinking about the humiliation this would bring to my family. How did this happen? Even as I was being dragged through the streets, I was aware I had been framed, set up, trapped. And as much as I hated to admit it, I had been framed by the man I’d fallen in love with. So along with all the other emotions, a sense of betrayal overwhelmed me.

Q – There’s so much to cover we are going to have to come back next week to finish up. See you then!

Questions for my readers. Please leave comments and questions below.

How do you feel you can relate to Anna’s experience?
Are there specific questions that my readers would like me to ask Anna?
What things have you wanted to do when you get to Heaven? Who do you want to talk to?

 

If you would like to read the first chapter of “Trapped” CLICK HERE.

If you would like to order a copy of “Trapped” CLICK HERE.

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends and subscribe to my blog and newsletter below. You will receive my modern short story version of ‘Trapped: The Adulterous Woman’ in your thank you email.

 

 

The post Fiction Friday! Interview With the Woman Caught in Adultery – Part 1 appeared first on Golden Keyes Parsons.

Interview With the Woman Caught in Adultery – Part 1

A Fictional Interview With the Woman Caught in Adultery
 Based on my Novella Trapped: The Adulterous Woman
Taken from the Biblical Account in John 8:1-11

Welcome to the first FICTION FRIDAY! As most of you know, I am both an author and a speaker. Therefore, we felt my blog should reflect that perspective. We are learning about blogging as we go! So once each week I will be writing a blog concerning my speaking topics, which will usually be on Tuesdays.

Then on Fridays, we will address a fiction topic, thus FICTION FRIDAY. Sometimes I will discuss an interesting historical bit of research; sometimes I will talk about writing fiction; sometimes I will interview a colleague of mine who is a fiction author as well; sometimes I will discuss the publishing world … and who knows what else? The world of fiction opens up all kinds of possibilities.

To kick off FICTION FRIDAY, I am going to be discussing my newest release, Hidden Faces: Portraits of Nameless Women In The Gospels. We’ve had such wonderful feedback on this compilation of my biblical fiction novellas. Of course, if you’ve not read it, I encourage you to do so. Keep it in mind for your women’s Bible study. I’ll be teaching it at my church in November. And, may I suggest, it would be a dynamic vehicle for a women’s retreat. For the first few blogs, I am going to interview different characters from the Nameless Women series.

Haven’t you imagined what you are going to do when you get to heaven? I’ve imagined that scenario so many times–finally seeing the Lord face to face, the family and friends with whom I want to reunite, the Bible characters I would like to meet, the clarity of thought … this could go on forever. After having explored the biblical accounts of these four nameless women from Scripture, I am eager to meet them when I get to heaven. 

So, as fiction writers often do, I would like to invite you to play “Let’s Pretend” with me. Let’s pretend we are in heaven, and I am sitting down to interview each of these women to explore their feelings and thoughts about the part they play in the biblical account. Today I am looking forward to interviewing Anna, the principal character from Trapped! The Adulterous Woman.

Q – Thank you for being with us today. My first question is, “Were you surprised that your story was included in the canon of Scripture?”

A – In a way, I suppose I was. Jesus performed so many miracles and healed so many people, spiritually and physically, that not all of them could possibly be recorded. But, I am humbly grateful that people through the years have been blessed and inspired and encouraged by the retelling of it. You do realize, I am sure, that some scholars doubt that the incident actually took place. I can assure you that it did.

Q – Why do you think your name was not mentioned?

A – Perhaps John wanted to protect my identity. I don’t really know. It really isn’t important though, is it?

Q – No, I suppose your actual name isn’t, but the story certainly is. I chose the name “Anna” for you. Are you pleased with that name?

A – Yes, it is a good name.

Q –  I have to ask. So many people upon reading the account, take for granted that the woman taken in adultery was a prostitute. Upon doing the research, I came to the conclusion that was not the case. Does that misconception trouble you?

A – I suppose it shouldn’t bother me, but it does. I was a foolish young girl, betrothed to a man of my parents’ choice, not mine, and chafed at the dilemma I was in. I became enamored with another man, and chose to follow my emotions rather than what I knew was right. As being willful and going one’s own way always does, it led me into a trap.

Q – A trap that was very cleverly set by the Pharisees to frame Jesus, but you were caught in it as well.

A – That’s right. Our enemy, Satan, is very skillful at enticing us into sin, then he condemns us when we step into it. You see, I was not a woman seeking to live outside of God’s will. It’s my opinion that most followers of Jesus, men and women, who fall into adulterous affairs don’t intend to do so. It’s one subtle misstep after another until they are … well, trapped. Trapped by their own emotions and foolish choices.

Q – Tell us how you escaped from that trap.

A – It was simply Jesus. He extended grace and forgiveness to me, and in doing so, confounded the Pharisees, sending them away in shame.

Q – Would you mind if I ask more personal questions?

A – Not at all.

Q – When the “holy men” burst into the room and caught you in the very act of adultery, that must have been terribly humiliating. What were your thoughts?

A – It was total chaos … loud noises, banging and shouting. I didn’t know what was happening at first. Then I realized Eli and I had been caught. As they dragged me down the stairs, it dawned on me they were taking me to the Temple. But I didn’t understand why they were not bringing Eli as well. The law states that both partners are to be brought before the priest. I didn’t understand why he didn’t try to defend me. I’ll never forget the look on his face, almost a smirk, as I was taken away.

Q – That must have been painful.

A – There was the physical pain of being dragged through the streets, bound by a rope. I was scratched, bloodied and bruised by the time we got to the Temple, not to mention that my torn robe barely covered my body. But the emotional pain was by far worse than the physical pain. By the time the men threw me in front of Jesus, I was hysterical. I was so embarrassed and shamed. I kept thinking about the humiliation this would bring to my family. How did this happen? Even as I was being dragged through the streets, I was aware I had been framed, set up, trapped. And as much as I hated to admit it, I had been framed by the man I’d fallen in love with. So along with all the other emotions, a sense of betrayal overwhelmed me.

Q – There’s so much to cover we are going to have to come back next week to finish up. See you then!

Questions for my readers. Please leave comments and questions below.

How do you feel you can relate to Anna’s experience?
Are there specific questions that my readers would like me to ask Anna?
What things have you wanted to do when you get to Heaven? Who do you want to talk to?

 

If you would like to read the first chapter of “Trapped” CLICK HERE.

If you would like to order a copy of “Trapped” CLICK HERE.

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends and subscribe to my blog and newsletter below. You will receive my modern short story version of ‘Trapped: The Adulterous Woman’ in your thank you email.

 

 

The post Interview With the Woman Caught in Adultery – Part 1 appeared first on Golden Keyes Parsons.

Interview with the Woman Caught in Adultery – Part 1

A Fictional Interview with the Woman Caught in Adultery
 Based on my Novella Trapped: The Adulterous Woman
Taken from the Biblical Account in John 8:1-11

Welcome to the first FICTION FRIDAY! As most of you know, I am both an author and a speaker. Therefore, we felt my blog should reflect that perspective. We are learning about blogging as we go! So once each week I will be writing a blog concerning my speaking topics, which will usually be on Tuesdays.

Then on Fridays, we will address a fiction topic, thus FICTION FRIDAY. Sometimes I will discuss an interesting historical bit of research; sometimes I will talk about writing fiction; sometimes I will interview a colleague of mine who is a fiction author as well; sometimes I will discuss the publishing world … and who knows what else? The world of fiction opens up all kinds of possibilities.

To kick off FICTION FRIDAY, I am going to be discussing my newest release, Hidden Faces: Portraits of Nameless Women In The Gospels. We’ve had such wonderful feedback on this compilation of my biblical fiction novellas. Of course, if you’ve not read it, I encourage you to do so. Keep it in mind for your women’s Bible study. I’ll be teaching it at my church in November. And, may I suggest, it would be a dynamic vehicle for a women’s retreat. For the first few blogs, I am going to interview different characters from the Nameless Women series.

Haven’t you imagined what you are going to do when you get to heaven? I’ve imagined that scenario so many times–finally seeing the Lord face to face, the family and friends with whom I want to reunite, the Bible characters I would like to meet, the clarity of thought … this could go on forever. After having explored the biblical accounts of these four nameless women from Scripture, I am eager to meet them when I get to heaven. 

So, as fiction writers often do, I would like to invite you to play “Let’s Pretend” with me. Let’s pretend we are in heaven, and I am sitting down to interview each of these women to explore their feelings and thoughts about the part they play in the biblical account. Today I am looking forward to interviewing Anna, the principal character from Trapped! The Adulterous Woman.

Q – Thank you for being with us today. My first question is, “Were you surprised that your story was included in the canon of Scripture?”

A – In a way, I suppose I was. Jesus performed so many miracles and healed so many people, spiritually and physically, that not all of them could possibly be recorded. But, I am humbly grateful that people through the years have been blessed and inspired and encouraged by the retelling of it. You do realize, I am sure, that some scholars doubt that the incident actually took place. I can assure you that it did.

Q – Why do you think your name was not mentioned?

A – Perhaps John wanted to protect my identity. I don’t really know. It really isn’t important though, is it?

Q – No, I suppose your actual name isn’t, but the story certainly is. I chose the name “Anna” for you. Are you pleased with that name?

A – Yes, it is a good name.

Q –  I have to ask. So many people upon reading the account, take for granted that the woman taken in adultery was a prostitute. Upon doing the research, I came to the conclusion that was not the case. Does that misconception trouble you?

A – I suppose it shouldn’t bother me, but it does. I was a foolish young girl, betrothed to a man of my parents’ choice, not mine, and chafed at the dilemma I was in. I became enamored with another man, and chose to follow my emotions rather than what I knew was right. As being willful and going one’s own way always does, it led me into a trap.

Q – A trap that was very cleverly set by the Pharisees to frame Jesus, but you were caught in it as well.

A – That’s right. Our enemy, Satan, is very skillful at enticing us into sin, then he condemns us when we step into it. You see, I was not a woman seeking to live outside of God’s will. It’s my opinion that most followers of Jesus, men and women, who fall into adulterous affairs don’t intend to do so. It’s one subtle misstep after another until they are … well, trapped. Trapped by their own emotions and foolish choices.

Q – Tell us how you escaped from that trap.

A – It was simply Jesus. He extended grace and forgiveness to me, and in doing so, confounded the Pharisees, sending them away in shame.

Q – Would you mind if I ask more personal questions?

A – Not at all.

Q – When the “holy men” burst into the room and caught you in the very act of adultery, that must have been terribly humiliating. What were your thoughts?

A – It was total chaos … loud noises, banging and shouting. I didn’t know what was happening at first. Then I realized Eli and I had been caught. As they dragged me down the stairs, it dawned on me they were taking me to the Temple. But I didn’t understand why they were not bringing Eli as well. The law states that both partners are to be brought before the priest. I didn’t understand why he didn’t try to defend me. I’ll never forget the look on his face, almost a smirk, as I was taken away.

Q – That must have been painful.

A – There was the physical pain of being dragged through the streets, bound by a rope. I was scratched, bloodied and bruised by the time we got to the Temple, not to mention that my torn robe barely covered my body. But the emotional pain was by far worse than the physical pain. By the time the men threw me in front of Jesus, I was hysterical. I was so embarrassed and shamed. I kept thinking about the humiliation this would bring to my family. How did this happen? Even as I was being dragged through the streets, I was aware I had been framed, set up, trapped. And as much as I hated to admit it, I had been framed by the man I’d fallen in love with. So along with all the other emotions, a sense of betrayal overwhelmed me.

Q – There’s so much to cover we are going to have to come back next week to finish up. See you then!

Questions for my readers. Please leave comments and questions below.

How do you feel you can relate to Anna’s experience?
Are there specific questions that my readers would like me to ask Anna?
What things have you wanted to do when you get to Heaven? Who do you want to talk to?

 

If you would like to read the first chapter of “Trapped” CLICK HERE.

If you would like to order a copy of “Trapped” CLICK HERE.

 

 

The post Interview with the Woman Caught in Adultery – Part 1 appeared first on Golden Keyes Parsons.

31 Ways to Mess Up Your Marrigae – #21 – Failure to Recognize Cultural Differences

31 Ways to Mess Up Your Marriage
#21 Failure to Recognize Cultural Differences

Coming off of our Thanksgiving celebration I was reminded that integrating family holiday customs and traditions is sometimes difficult. When my husband and I do a marriage conference, this is usually the first issue that we cover.

I think we all understand if husband and wife come from different cultures and/or it is a bi-racial union, those adjustments are expected and difficult at times. But even when the families of origin are very similar in beliefs, section of the country, and race, there are still unexpected compromises that need to be made. (Tweet this!)

My mother was from Indiana. My father from Oklahoma. I can remember my mom talking about the first time she had black-eyes peas. In Indiana they fed them to the hogs. In the South, they eat them for good luck on New Year’s Day. My husband’s family always had Mexican food on Christmas Eve. And did not open gifts until Christmas morning after Santa Claus had come. My family did not have Christmas stockings. My mother-in-law had made gorgeous velvet stockings with glittering, personalized figures on each one. (A tradition which I have continued.) One year our middle daughter was in California working as a nanny for a family, and she called home on Thanksgiving afternoon so upset that the dressing the family served was not the cornbread dressing she had grown up eating, and the salad was jello. She was a young woman in her twenties, a college graduate, and she was upset over dressing and jello!

Holiday traditions are important, and add a point of security for children, but failure to recognize that compromises need to be reached regarding holiday traditions, food preferences, general operation of the family — as trivial as they may sound on the surface — can erupt into major issues if not attended to. (Tweet this!) As that great philosopher, Dr. Phil says, “Relationships are managed, not controlled.” And in that management, much compromise on both sides is required.

What is a major point of adjustment you needed to make in your marriage which involved cultural differences? This might be a good time of year to discuss it with your mate … and have a good laugh!

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends and subscribe to my blog and newsletter below. You will receive my modern short story version of ‘Trapped: The Adulterous Woman’ in your thank you email.

The post 31 Ways to Mess Up Your Marrigae – #21 – Failure to Recognize Cultural Differences appeared first on Golden Keyes Parsons.

The Renewed Heart – Part 2

The Renewed Heart – Part 2
Matters of the Heart Series

Are you working hard for Jesus, but have left your first love? In the Book of Revelation, Jesus complimented the church at Ephesus. He knew they had worked hard, persevered and not grown weary in their work for Him. However, he had a word of admonition for them. “Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first” (Revelation 2:4 NIV).

How do you know when you’ve left your first love?

1) When my delight is in something or someone else. “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength” (Mark 12:30 Amp).

The Christian walk has so many parallels with the marriage relationship. Can you remember when you first fell in love, perhaps in high school? Can’t you remember trying to work your schedule around just so you could catch a glimpse of your “beloved?”  You would stand by your locker in between classes just a little longer. Or you would hurry to the gym before he had to suit out for football just to catch a few words here and there. Or you would go to school 30 minutes early just to have some time alone with him. That is taking delight in someone.

That is how Jesus wants us to feel about him. He wants us to be excited about meeting with him. He wants us to get up a little earlier just so you can be together. But little by little we begin to take delight in something or someone else. The television, FaceBook, or our children, or our husband, or our job, or our house, or … . I’m so aware of this every morning when I sit down for my devotional. Too many times I reach for my computer or phone or tablet before I’ve had prayer or Bible reading. I have to make a conscious effort to give Him the first fruits of my day. We know we have left our first love when our delight is in something or someone else. (Tweet this!)

2) When my soul does not yearn for rich fellowship in the Word. “Thy Word have I treasured in my heart that I might not sin against Thee. Open my eyes that I may behold wonderful things from Thy law.” (Psalm 119:11,18 NASB). I often quote that eighteenth verse before I begin my Bible study. “Lord, open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in the Scripture today.” I saw an inscription in the front of a Bible one time that said, “This Book will keep you from sin … and sin will keep you from this Book.” How true. God’s Word is alive, and He has things He wants to tell us if we will just avail ourselves of the opportunity. But you have to search for the treasures in the Word like you would search for rubies, gold or diamonds. That takes time. Schedule your day around the reading of the Word. You will never regret it. (Tweet this!)

I know how difficult it is to find time to do so when you have small children. I had three little girls pretty close together to corral everyday, and it was hard. But get up earlier. Go to bed earlier. Get your kids to bed earlier. Isn’t it worth it to meet with the Creator of the universe? “Behold I stand at the door and knock, if any man will open unto me I will come in to him and dine with him and He with me.” He wants to have the main meal of the day with you, not a snack or a brown bag lunch on the run. He wants to sit down and linger over the meal to fellowship with you, like we do at Thanksgiving, talking and laughing.

3) When my thoughts don’t dwell on Him. Are you thinking of Him all day long? Praying without ceasing? His thoughts dwell continually on you. “How precious and weighty also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How vast is the sum of them! If I could count them, they are more in number than the sand. When I awoke, could I count to the end, I would still be with You” (Psalm 139:17-18 Amp). That’s pretty awesome. Where are your thoughts?

4) When I say, “I’m only human,” and I use that as an excuse to give in to temptation. We should shudder at sin, which takes us out of his will simply because it hurts him. Enough said.

5. When I live a self-centered life. “But if any one has this world’s goods and sees his brother and fellow believer in need, yet closes his heart of compassion against him, how can the love of God live and remain in him?”  (I John 3:17 Amp). How can we be having close intimate fellowship with the Father and close our hearts against our brother? (Tweet this!)

 

Take a fierce inventory of your heart, and ask the Lord if you’ve slowly drifted away from your first love.
 What is your reaction to the homeless, the poor, the hungry, on our streets–compassion or disgust? We’ve lost our first love when we live selfishly on the throne of our lives, making only ourselves comfortable, forgetting about those around us who are suffering.
Ask the Lord to make your heart soft and pliable to His daily direction of your life.
Picture yourself answering a knock at the door and when you open it, Jesus is standing there. He would like to come in and fellowship with you. Do you welcome Him in with open arms, or do you hesitate?
What do you need to do to have open arms for Jesus to come and fellowship with you?

 

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends and subscribe to my blog and newsletter below. You will receive my modern short story version of ‘Trapped: The Adulterous Woman’ in your thank you email.

 

The post The Renewed Heart – Part 2 appeared first on Golden Keyes Parsons.

31 Ways to Mess Up Your Marriage – #20 – Failure to Understand Sexual Differences

31 Ways to Mess Up Your Marriage
#20 Failure to Understand Sexual Differences

Men and women are different. Talk about an understatement! Volumes have been written about the subject, but when it comes to the sex life of couples, so much hurt and misunderstanding takes place because of these differences. (Tweet this!) A short blog does not permit the space needed to fully discuss the subject of sex in marriage, but I’d like to mention a couple of pivotal issues that if adhered to would alleviate much of the tension in this area.

Marriage is the place to have the best sex–not before marriage, outside of marriage or in addition to marriage. Hollywood has done a number on us as far as what a good sexual relationship looks like. (Tweet this!) Very seldom do movies depict healthy robust sexual relationships within the marriage relationship. Sex outside of marriage does harm to both parties, but the most wounding occurs to the woman. Her need for emotional intimacy and security can only met within a healthy marital relationship.

 

Servanthood is the biblical standard for the sexual relationship. (1 Cor. 7:1-5) Each mate must understand the sexual differences of the other and be willing to meet them. For a man, sex is a primary need. For most women, it is secondary at best. (Tweet this!) Once we are married, we cannot force or manipulate our spouses into meeting our sexual needs. We simply must accept the fact that we need each other to meet one another’s needs and if we are ever going to experience ultimate sex, it will be in the context of servanthood.

 

The top three areas of conflict in marriage are sex, finances and in-laws. We have covered all of these now in our blog. I would love to hear your comments as to which area has given you the most problems. All of us have experienced difficulty in each of these areas, and not resolving the conflict in these three areas leads to more divorce than anything else. But with the Lord, even the most sticky issue can be resolved.

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends and subscribe to my blog and newsletter below. You will receive my modern short story version of ‘Trapped: The Adulterous Woman’ in your thank you email.

The post 31 Ways to Mess Up Your Marriage – #20 – Failure to Understand Sexual Differences appeared first on Golden Keyes Parsons.