Deborah L. McCarragher's Blog, page 13

Is that an Oasis I see or just a Mirage?

courtesy  Photocrave.net  When you find yourself roaming the wilderness or wandering in the desert, don't you normally seek out an oasis?

So why do we act as though one doesn't exist? Do we walk by faith and not by sight?  Don't we gravitate 'by default' towards ease and comfort? Does not our Heavenly Father encourage us in His Word to seek refreshment and reinvigorate ourselves in His Presence?
Refresh:  to restore strength; to revive; to replenish and renew supply.
When you are living in an unequally-yoked marriage, there will be times of weariness and discouragement.  Day to day interaction with someone who is not governed by God’s Spirit can begin to ‘chip away’ at your Christian character.  You often wrestle with yourself over a harsh word spoken, or perhaps you were misunderstood and you now harbor resentment.
I can tell you there were times when I literally felt as though I would scream out loud if I couldn't hand over to God my fickle feelings or raging emotions.  On one occasion I remember going into the bathroom, shutting the door behind me, and just gritting my teeth and shaking my head in disgust at the anger welling up inside of me.  I was emotionally out of control…
I am a student of Satan’s trickery and deception.  I keep my spiritual antenna up when I am in a heated discussion with my husband, because I know the enemy would love for me to say something horrid or disrespect him by marginalizing his opinion.  I find myself thinking, “This is so unfair, Lord! I’m tired of biting my tongue all the time!”
But lately – I have found myself in the wilderness of uncertainty and the desert of uneasiness. I am increasingly thirsty for something I am not getting in my marriage.  I crave spiritual intimacy.  I long for a oneness that only comes from sharing God things.  I have become parched in my soul…
What would you do in this situation?  Do you know where to go for help?
Here is the great news – Jesus is the Living Water (John 4:13-14).  Ephesians 5:26 tells us that God sanctifies and washes us by the water of His Word.  We are refreshed and revived as His life-giving Spirit cleanses our hearts and minds. 
Image credit: 123RF Stock Photo
What does all of this have to do with me and my thirsty soul?  Simply put… Everything.  I must take the time to find my oasis.  I must force myself to rest and seek solitude with my Savior.  I need to separate myself from the world and its influence long enough to refresh myself in Him.

Jeremiah passionately preached that the people had forsaken their God, the fountain of living waters (Jeremiah 2:13).  He also lamented that when they tried to fabricate their own vessels [cisterns], they were inadequate and broken.  
An earthly jar fashioned by man simply cannot contain a heavenly commodity designed by God.
Isaiah tells us that Israel will be comforted by God’s great power of restoration.  Isaiah 43:19-20 declares how God will cut through the wilderness and provide life-saving water to His chosen.  Streams in the desert will spring forth, and rivers will flow unhindered.  In Chapter 44 Isaiah says, “For I [God] will pour water on him who is thirsty, and floods on the dry ground; I will pour My Spirit on your descendants, and My blessing on your offspring.”
God will always provide in miraculous ways when we are no longer able to by means of our own ability.
Moses discovered God’s faithfulness and provision in the Wilderness of Shur, the very place where Hagar and Ishmael lingered after leaving Abraham’s household (Genesis 16:7-14).  Often God’s greatest miracles are seen in the realm of physical impossibilities.  He uses bitter, lifeless things to bring forth life-giving refreshment. 
Do you have something in your spiritually mismatched marriage that needs refreshing?  Is there an attitude or unsettled feeling that you desire relief from?  How have you handled a wilderness experience in your home?
I am discovering that ‘pressing into’ Jesus – the Word of Life - will indeed enrich my life and restore my strength to continue my journey.  What about you?







Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

A Salute to Veterans

Veterans Day originated as "Armistice Day" on Nov. 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. 

Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance, and November 11th became a national holiday beginning in 1938. Veterans Day is not to be confused with Memorial Day -- which honors American service members who died in service to their country, or as a result of injuries incurred during battle, while Veterans Day pays tribute to all American Veterans--living or dead--and gives thanks to living Veterans who served their country honorably during war or peacetime.
In 1954, President Eisenhower officially changed the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day.In 1968, the Uniform Holidays Bill was passed by Congress, which moved the celebration of Veterans Day Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October. The law went into effect in 1971, but in 1975 President Ford returned to November 11, due to the important historical significance of the date.
The Veterans Day National Ceremony is held each year on November 11th at Arlington National Cemetery. The ceremony commences precisely at 11:00 a.m. with a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns and continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater with a parade of colors by veterans' organizations and remarks from dignitaries. The ceremony is intended to honor and thank all who served in the United States Armed Forces.
Veterans Day is an annual American holiday honoring military Veterans. Both a federal holiday and a state holiday in all states, it is usually observed on November 11th. It is also celebrated as Armistice Day or Remembrance Day in other parts of the world, falling on November 11, the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I.  
The United States also celebrated Armistice Day on November 11th until Al King, an Emporia, Kansas shoe store owner campaigned to update it to ‘All’ Veterans Day. With the help of then U.S. Representative Ed Rees and President Dwight Eisenhower, Congress amended this act on November 8, 1954, replacing ‘Armistice’ with Veterans, and it has been known as Veterans Day.  [Wikipedia]
Veterans Facts
The brave men and women who serve and protect the U.S. come from all walks of life; they are parents, children and grandparents. They are friends, neighbors and coworkers, and an important part of their communities. Here are some facts about the current Veteran population of the United States.
There are now approximately 23.2 million Veterans living in the United States.
·           9.2 million Veterans are over the age of 65.·           1.9 million Veterans are under the age of 35.·           1.8 million Veterans are women.·           7.8 million Veterans served during the Vietnam War era (1964-1975)·           5.2 million Veterans served during the Gulf War (Aug. 2, 1990, to present).·           2.6 million Veterans served during World War II (1941-1945).·           2.8 million Veterans served during the Korean War (1950-1953).·           6 million Veterans served in peacetime


For interesting facts and history - visit the   The US Army Center of Military History


 Here are some of my favorite websites for families of Veterans who are deployed:
http://www.wivesoffaith.orghttp://weservetoo.comhttp://soldiersangels.org
My friend Kathryn Sneed is a military wife, mother and blogger. Visit her at  http://www.singingthroughtherain.net/

My dad is a US Navy Veteran (pilot), my husband is a US Navy Veteran, my father-in-law was a US Air Force Veteran, and our son is an active duty US Marine officer serving on his first deployment in the Mideast aboard the USS Iwo Jima.  We are a true military family and salute our Veterans.  Ooh-Rah !
Our son at his commissioning with my dad and husband








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. 

Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

November is Military Family Appreciation Month

Did you know that November has been designated  Military Family Appreciation Month  by the President and the US Department of Defense?

The  U S Dept. of Defense  has information and updates from last year's activities and stories.  Military families that are dealing with one or both parents on deployment have a multitude of resources to help with their family obligations and day to day struggles.

The President designated November to be a month of awareness of what military families face and how we as a grateful nation can participate in helping them.

There are projects across this nation started by moms, wives, sisters, and whole communities to tackle some of the most demanding needs. Everything from playgrounds to school projects, Thanksgiving meals and pre-Christmas shopping to childcare are just some of the ways you can make a difference in the life of a military family you know.

Yard work, small home repairs and automobile maintenance is another way neighbors can help their military community.  Baby showers, wedding planning and school prom preparation is always welcome.  There are so many opportunities to help a military family - the list is unending.  Use your imagination and come up with a unique way to serve a member of our armed services.

What are some special things you have done for a local military family?  Do you inquire within your neighborhood or at church to see if there is someone who would benefit from a helping hand? 

Military.com  Is another important resource for information regarding Military Family Appreciation Month, as well as helps for military families and their support grid.  There are links to financial, educational and military benefit sites, along with news stories relating to the armed forces.

One of our favorite Military charities is the  Wounded Warrior Project      Their organization exists to help those who have incurred service related injury or illness during service to their country. We are proud to be a monthly contributor to such an excellent provider of services and support for our troops and their families.  Please visit their website and consider becoming a partner with this extraordinary group.

While our son has been on deployment in the Mideast aboard the USS Iwo Jima, we have sent him numerous boxes with various magazines, personal hygiene items, power bars, coffee, tea, dried fruits, popular sweets and snacks, photos, cards, and more. Personal requests made it more of a "scavenger hunt" on some occasions, but overall it's been great fun putting them together to mail.

Sean & Sydney 2012As a mom of a US Marine, I have taken on the personal mission of sending various Christian devotionals, magazines and books - without overdoing it (if you know what I mean). Just my way of giving him a little spiritual boost from the home front.  I encourage you to take advantage of the fact that when they are far from home their hearts are often open to the Word of God.

Here are some of my favorite verses that you can pray over your loved one while they serve their country:

Lord, thank You that the Spirit of the Lord will rest upon them. The spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and strength, the spirit of knowledge, and the fear of the Lord. In the name of Jesus Christ.  (Isaiah 11:2)

Lord, thank You that You require of them to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with their God. In the name of Jesus Christ.  (Micah 6:8)

Lord, thank You that You will instruct them, and teach them the way in which they should go, You will counsel them with Your eye upon them.  In the name of Jesus Christ.  (Psalm 32:8)

Lord, thank You that if any of them lacks wisdom, they will ask of You, Who gives to all men generously and without reproach, and it will be given to them.  In the name of Jesus Christ.  (James 1:5)

Lord, thank You that You are faithful, and You will strengthen and protect them from the evil one.  In the name of Jesus Christ.  (II Thessalonians 3:3)

Lord, thank You that they can cast all their anxiety upon You, because You care for them.  In the name of Jesus Christ.  (I Peter 5:7)


Tell me some of your favorite military charities and organizations that you support.  What is one of the best things anyone has done for your family while your loved one served in the military?  Do you have a story to share about something you've done to help out a family in need?

So - it is November 2nd - that means you have 28 more days to show your appreciation to a military family near you!  









Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

Trick or Treat? Going Beyond the Grave...

123RF Stock Photo Do you participate in Halloween activities in your neighborhood?  Is there an opportunity for you to start a dialog with your neighbors and their kids about what Halloween really represents?  Can you focus on death and use it as a witnessing tool?  
No doubt you can answer those questions in several ways. In case you don't know the history of this "holiday" - here's a brief overview of the origins of  Halloween. 
Halloween is a culturally popular holiday observed on October 31st. It was a Celtic pagan festival, and then became the Christian holiday -  All Saints' Day , but today is a secular celebration. Halloween activities include trick-or-treating, wearing costumes, carving Jack-o'-lanterns, apple bobbing, visiting haunted attractions, committing pranks, telling ghost stories or other frightening tales, and watching horror films.

Wikipedia, the on-line encyclopedia, has this to say about Halloween:  “The word Halloween is first attested in the 16th century and represents a Scottish variant of the fuller All-Hallows-Even ("evening"), that is, the night before All Hallows Day.  Although the phrase All Hallows is found in Old English (ealra hálȝena mæssedæȝ, the feast of all saints), All-Hallows-Even was not attested until 1556.

In traditional Celtic Halloween festivals, large turnips were hollowed out, carved with faces and placed in windows to ward off evil spirits.  The carving of pumpkins is associated with Halloweenin North America where pumpkins are both readily available and much larger – making them easier to carve than turnips. Many families that celebrate Halloween carve a pumpkin into a frightening or comical face and place it on their doorstep after dark.  The practice of dressing up in costumes and begging door to door for treats on holidays, dates back to the Middle Ages.  Trick-or-treating resembles the late medieval practice of souling, originating in Ireland and Britain.  Poor folk would go door to door on Hallowmas (November 1st), receiving food in return for prayers for the dead on All Souls Day (November 2nd).
Image - WikipediaThe early Christian church moved a festive celebration called All Saints' Day from May to November 1 and renamed it All Hallows' Eve, from which we get the word Halloween. This was an overt attempt on the part of believers to infiltrate pagan tradition with the truth of the gospel.  It was a bold evangelistic move designed to demonstrate that only the power of the resurrected Christ could protect men and women from the destructive ploys of Satan and his demons.

An article posted on  ChristianityToday.com  in 2009 cited a Barna Research study which had this to say:
“The majority of American Christians do not believe that Satan is a real being or that the Holy Spirit is a living entity, the latest Barna Research survey found. Nearly six out of ten Christians either strongly agreed or somewhat agreed with the statement that Satan “is not a living being but is a symbol of evil,” the survey found.  40 percent strongly agreed with the statement while 19 percent of American Christians somewhat agreed.  In contrast, about 35 percent of American Christians believe Satan is real.  20 percent strongly disagreed with the statement that Satan is merely symbolic and about one-tenth (9 percent) somewhat disagreed. The remaining 8 percent of American Christians responded they were unsure what to believe about the existence of Satan.”

What can we as believers do to counter-balance a society that deems Halloween “harmless?” For starters, we can have an open door for evangelism and education. The deception of a holiday such as Halloween, with its witches, vampires, demons, skeletons, and overall theme of evil, can become an opportunity to demonstrate the dynamic power of Christ to redeem us from death.  Halloween distorts the reality of true spiritual warfare, and glorifies the dark side of the spiritual world.  However, we can tell them about the One who triumphed over evil, and who came to give us a purpose, and a God-given destiny.
If you allow your children to trick-or-treat, focus on costumes that are based on Bible characters, animals, cartoon characters, historical people, and other “non-horror” themes.   We need to be careful not to add to the “feeding frenzy” of horror movie characters, demons, ghosts, goblins, the devil, and other evil beings.    
Credit -  ThinkstockWe often   decorate our house with scary “nature things” like spiders & webs, lizards, snakes, mice, birds, bats - and not  “death and demon”  related items most often found in Halloween-themed stores.  We carve real pumpkins or put out the plug-in type.  We hand out candy or tiny Christian toys and witnessing tracts that are family-friendly.  For the past couple of years (as an empty-nester) I take my two dogs out and walk the neighborhood, visiting with those we meet.  You can make October 31st a night to talk about death, eternity, and how Jesus laid His life down for them.  
Dying and decay are eminent; however, evil and the grave has been defeated by Jesus through His death on the cross.   
We are more than conquerors over the powers of darkness, demonstrated by Jesus’ resurrection (Colossians 2:15), and the Holy Spirit’s power in us as believers (Ephesians 6:11-17).
Use Halloween as a teaching tool and an opportunity to witness.   Share the good news of Christ.   
            R. I. P.    (Rest in His Presence)

“For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus… For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God.  And the dead in Christ will rise first.”   ( I Thessalonians 4:14 ;  16 )







Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

Live Long and Prosper

Wikipedia image Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers        (3 John 2).

Okay – I’ll admit it...I was a 'Trekkie' back in the day. 
I loved watching Star Trek each week as Captain James T Kirk and First Officer Spock explored brave new worlds in far-away galaxies aboard the Federation Starship Enterprise.
Set the in 23rdcentury, their galactic adventures centered on the United Federation of Planets and its interaction with both friendly and hostile alien species.  Each week the show featured the young crew facing life and death decisions as they navigated through difficulties and dangers.
Mr. Spock would, on occasion, give a blessing of sorts to someone with whom he had respect for or to whom he paid homage to by saying, “Live long and prosper” .  A caveat here: in my opinion, Gene Roddenberry likely had 3 John 2 in mind when he crafted that famous line.
To prosper is to become strong and flourishing – successful or thriving. It also refers to succeeding in an enterprise or economic activity. 
Genesis 39:5 and 39:23 refers to Joseph’s prospering under God’s mighty hand.  Verse 3 tells us, “And his mater saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord made all he did to prosper in his hand.”  Later in verse 23 we see, “The keeper of the prison did not look into anything that was under Joseph’s hand, because the Lord was with him; and whatever he did, the Lord made it prosper.”
Prosperity can relate to the physical, the mental, and the spiritual state. What does prosperity look like to the Christian? It is proof of God’s working within the daily circumstances of a believer’s life.  It can be an economic surplus, or it can be a physical advantage.  It may manifest itself as an emotional boost, or it can become a spiritual fountain.
Prosperity to me is an indication of inner joy working itself outward in a Christian’s life that is so evident to others that it can only be attributed to God.
Wikipedia imagePsalm 1 tells us that that the blessed man [woman] delights in God’s law and meditates on His precepts.  Verse 3 says, “He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.”
Psalm 35:27 tells us the Lord has pleasure in the prosperity of His servants.  Psalm 122:6 declares those who love the Lord will prosper .  Even the Apostle Paul told the Corinthian church to “…lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come.”
Biblical prosperity opens the door for the Christian to share their abundance with those in need.  It is never to be hoarded and wasted.  Even King Solomon warned us in Ecclesiastes 7:14 that God brings both prosperity and adversity – that we might be joyful in the one, and mindful in the other.
3 John 2 was written as a greeting to John’s dear friend Gaius, who most likely supported traveling teachers and missionaries.   

John commended him for his steadfast adherence to God’s Word.  He prayed for him to have good fortune and good health – that his everyday affairs would prosper and flourish as his soul did.  John was happy to hear the good report concerning his beloved student of truth.
In biblical times good health and longevity were a rarity.  Thus, this saying was frequently used to bless someone and to bestow God’s favor upon them by proxy. 
Our Vulcan friend might have exuded little to no emotion while giving his blessing, but we can all agree it is a benediction of sorts nonetheless.  

Live long and prosper definitely has its roots right here in Scripture.
Right on Mr. Spock… good job!








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

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Grandma...pick me up ---

Emotions are running high and a melt-down occurs. Or maybe they're just tired and cranky as they slide to the ground in a puddle. They stand there looking at you with their arms extended upwards.

My husband and I have had the great pleasure of keeping our little granddaughter overnight at least once every weekend.  At three years old she is very demonstrative and animated.  She’s learning to assert herself more and has a keen sense of the dramatic – especially when she reacts to situations she cannot control.
One of the motions that she frequently displays is to reach up and say, “Grandma… pick me up---“
What a great spiritual truth we find in that expression - complete surrender.  Let go and let God is a familiar saying.  

What does the “raised arms” mean while they’re extended?  It means I am at a loss for what to do.  It means I have come to the end of myself.  It means I recognize that God has the answer for my shortfall.
Back to my little granddaughter… when she stands there, looking up at me and shrieking “Pick me up, Grandma!”, she is acknowledging her venerability and usually one of these things:

§  She is hungry§  She is tired§  She is sick§  She is afraid
In Jesus’ day, Jewish children often called out using the endearing term Abba, which is the Aramaic form of  “father”. 
When we are at the end of ourselves, our Heavenly Daddy awaits our outreach.  When our strength fails us, He is there to pick us up.  We simply need to reach up in faith.
In Mark 14:36 Jesus expressed absolute trust in His Father when He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You.”  This was during an intense period of prayer and seeking God’s will for Himself in the Garden of Gathsemane, which means “olive press”.  Think of the word-picture associated with the crushing weight of the world’s sin as the hour of His death approached.
When a toddler reaches for their earthly Daddy, we know that they have confidence that they will be lifted into the safety of loving arms.  I realize this might not be the case for some, but for illustration purposes, we can visualize the tender scenario. How much more so when we are comforted by our Heavenly Father!  

Image credit: nexusplexus / 123RF Stock Photo
Once my granddaughter is in my embrace, she settles down and simply rests her head on my shoulder.  She no longer struggles – but simply releases herself to me.  She is safe… she is resting.  She is emptied of all her inner turmoil – often lying limp.  I love that feeling of caring for her and taking on the responsibility of her well-being – even if it is just for a moment.
I imagine God feels much the same way when we release all to Him.  Realizing that our Abba indeed delights in our ceasing to strive towards an end that is wrong for us, or when we simply release our will to His greater plans.
The Apostle Paul speaks of our adoption into God’s family with the same loving term.  Romans 8:15 tells us, “For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.”  Paul knew that adoption gave inherent rights to those who were being brought into a family – one of which was the right of inheritance as a bona fide child. This point is lovingly expressed in verse 17 as we are told we are joint heirs with Christ.
Then in Galatians 4:6 he says, “And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!”  What a beautiful promise to the believer, and encouragement to those who cry out to God from a sincere heart.


Have you reached out to your Abba?  Do you feel the security of His loving arms around you?  I’ll end with this familiar children’s song…
Jesus loves me this I knowFor the Bible tells me soLittle ones to Him belongThey are weak, but He is strong







Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”.  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com 

Are You Feeling the Heat Yet?

When God wants to purify us it’s often by means we’d rather not acknowledge.  Not only that, it may be done through people we are not especially enamored with. 
Malachi 3:2 states “But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap.”  
Matthew 3:11-12 tells us the Lord Himself will baptize us with the Holy Spirit and fire, and that the “chaff” will be burned up with unquenchable fire at the last Day.
Of course, right now God will refine us when it is required - no need to wait until the Judgment.  If we are His child, and we continue to walk in the flesh, He will “turn up the heat” (so to speak).  We won’t get away with bad behavior without correction.  After all, He lovingly corrects and rebukes those He loves (Revelation 3:19).
Do you notice when God begins to knock off the rough edges of your character?  What does He do to curtail your gruff attitudes? How does God interfere in your life when things don’t go your way?
One of my favorite devotionals is My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers.  An entry in September reads in part as follows:
   Our call has nothing to do with personal sanctification, but with being made broken bread and poured-out wine. God can never make us wine if we object to the fingers He uses to crush us with. If God would only use His own fingers, and make me broken bread and poured-out wine in a special way! But when He uses someone whom we dislike, or some set of circumstances to which we said we would never submit, and makes those the crushers, we object.  If ever we are going to be made into wine, we will have to be crushed; you cannot drink grapes.
Does this resonate with you?  Do you “feel the squeeze” and wonder what on earth God is up to?  Are there are times when He has to put us between a rock and a hard place just to get our attention?
It might be a neighbor He uses to point out something we didn't realize was offensive. Or how about your siblings?  They know you better than almost anyone on the planet.  What happens when God uses them to pinpoint an attitude that is less than God-honoring?  He often uses our spouses to prick our consciences.  Or perhaps our employer brings something to our attention that God uses to correct us.  
However the rebuke comes - let the Refiner burn away all that remains of your "old nature" in order to bring forth something better - something pure.
In marriage, we often have periods in our relationship where God is working on one of us, while the other seems to “get a pass”.  If you are in an unequally-yoked marriage, your squeeze can be especially painful to endure. The believer knows that God might hone in on their character or brings them under conviction in an area they think they have already conquered.  That can be difficult to accept unless we understand that ultimately the greater goal is to refine us, define us, and bring Him glory.
The Apostle Paul tells us in Romans 8:18 “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find.”  He goes on to say that even though he wills to do good, he does not do it. The sin that dwells in him commits the sin.  His body is in conflict with his mind, and thus he is brought captive unto his sinful nature.  He wrestles with a dilemma we all face.  
Victory lies in submission to the Spirit of God by taking every thought captive unto the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).  Listen to the still small voice.  Ask another believer to agree in prayer with you about your shortcomings and how to overcome them.  Recite Scriptures that reinforce Godly behaviors and thinking.
God's teachings are truths that can only be understood by His Spirit within us. Make sure they are deeply embedded within your mind and soul.  Your relationships depend on it.








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “MissionPossible”.  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visithttp://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

Fruitful or Barren - What Will Your Spouse See?

     I am the Real Vine and my Father is the Farmer. He cuts off every branch of me that doesn’t bear grapes. And every branch that is grape-bearing he prunes back so it will bear even more. You are already pruned back by the message I have spoken.
     Live in me. Make your home in me just as I do in you. In the same way that a branch can’t bear grapes by itself but only by being joined to the vine, you can’t bear fruit unless you are joined with me.     I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you’re joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can’t produce a thing. Anyone who separates from me is deadwood, gathered up and thrown on the bonfire. But if you make yourselves at home with me and my words are at home in you, you can be sure that whatever you ask will be listened to and acted upon. This is how my Father shows who he is – when you produce grapes, when you mature as my disciples.             (John 15:1-8  MSG)
When you are living in a spiritually uneven marriage, your husband becomes a fruit inspector, even if he doesn't totally grasp the concept from a Christian standpoint.

He looks for evidences of your conversion.  He sees your reactions to everyday struggles.  He watches to see if you'll acknowledge him for something he's done for you.  Do you have fruit for him to appreciate, much less notice?

Jesus told us we would bear good fruit when we abided in Him.  That means we are to stay in an intimate relationship with Him which entails Bible study, praying, and following His commandments.  Fruit bearing is a result of living in total surrender to Him. 

The following is an excerpt from an article in the magazine In Touch by Dr. Charles F. Stanley:
The wisest decision you can make is to set your heart, mind, and will on doing whatever is necessary to grow up in Christ.  Then whenever the Lord gives you a specific responsibility of any kind, you will be prepared and equipped to fulfill your calling.  Here are some spiritual markers of a believer.The Fruit of Spiritual MaturingSpirit-controlled character  (Gal. 5:22-25)Stability of sound doctrine  (I Tim. 4:6)Passion for Christ and His calling  (Phil. 3:7-14)Increasing love for one another  (I Thess. 3:12-13)Ability to gently exhort others  (II Tim. 2:24-26)Discernment  (Heb. 5:14)Godly wisdom  (James 3:13-18)Increasing holiness in behavior  (I Peter 1:13-16)

In the New Testament Jesus used the fig tree to illustrate spiritual hypocrisy in the religious community of His day.  Here is one such passage:
Now in the morning, as He [Jesus] returned to the city, He was hungry. And seeing a fig tree by the road, He came to it and found nothing on it but leaves, and said to it, “Let no fruit grow on you ever again.” And immediately, the fig tree withered away.  (Matthew 21:18-19)
Jesus cursed the tree because it should have had some fruit on it naturally – simply as a function of its fruit-bearing nature and tendency to blossom nearly year-round.  He correlated the tree’s lack of fruit to the nation of Israel’s spiritual deficit and moral corruption.  The Jewish people had forsaken God and rejected Him time and time again.  The religious leaders made a mockery of the original intent of the Law and had burdened men with hundreds of man-made rules and regulations.

Fig trees in Jesus’ day were abundant and as common as an oak or maple in your front yard today. Everyone had a fig tree and they dotted the landscape in the hillsides surrounding Jerusalem.  In the Old Testament it often represented prosperity.  In I Kings 4:25 we read that “every man was sitting under his own fig tree.”  The fig tree makes a good shade tree, often growing up to 20 feet or more. (John 1:43-50) 
Many times fig trees were planted alongside the grapevines and flourished in the well-maintained vineyards.  Fruit often appears before the leaves which don’t appear until right before summer.  Two crops of fruit appear: one in the spring which is eaten fresh, and the other in fall which is often dried during the winter. 
The first time a fruit tree is mentioned and named in Scripture is in Genesis. Fig leaves were sewed together and used to cover Adam and Eve’s nakedness in the Garden of Eden. (Genesis 3:7) The fig leaves are roughly the size of a human hand and are hairy on the back side.
 So, let’s talk about OUR fruit (or lack thereof).  How do we assure a year-round crop of eye-pleasing, mouth-watering fruit?  How do we stay connected to the Vine and grow as a follower of Christ?
We go back to our passage in John 15:1-8.  We abide.  We make Jesus the hub of our lives.  As the Apostle Paul says in Acts 17:28, “for in Him we live and move and have our being…”  What should our fruit look like?
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.  (Galatians 5:22-23)
I just happen to know a really great Gardener, and His fruit is always ripe.








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “MissionPossible”.  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit
http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

A Bona Fide Convert

Salvation:  deliverance from the power and effects of sin.


If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”  (II Corinthians 5:17)
If you ask a handful of people to define what a “Christian” is – you’ll get a variety of answers. Some say if you attend church you’re a Christian.  Others think if your parents and grandparents were Christians, then you are a Christian by birth right.  You might know someone who thinks being baptized or dedicated as a child qualifies you to be a Christian.  There are churches full of people who believe they are Christians, yet don’t follow His commandments or know Him intimately.  Pastors, choir members, Sunday school teachers and deacons have made public professions of faith after they have spent their entire lives in church.
There should be a time in your life where you can clearly point to an event or a private moment that changed you forever:  your genuine conversion experience with the Lord Jesus Christ.

So, what does it look like?  You begin to fall in love with God’s Word.  You desire to spend more time with His people.  You care less and less about the world’s system and allure.  You have a tender heart towards things that move the heart of God, and you begin to live to please Him – not others.

Let’s be clear… a Christian is a Christ follower.  In order to follow Christ, you have to make a decision to do so.  But this is the best part – Christ chooses you!  He seeks you out and invites you to accept His gift of salvation.  Jesus says, "No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him" (John 6:44).


God saves men by His sovereign grace through the Atonement of Jesus.  He works in us to will and to do of His good pleasure; but we have to work out that salvation in practical living... The experience of salvation means that in your actual life things are really altered, you no longer look at things as you used to; your desires are new, old things have lost their power…It is this complete and amazing alteration that is the evidence that you are a saved soul.     ~ Oswald Chambers [My Utmost for His Highest]



Below is an excerpt from my book  MISSION POSSIBLE Chapter 7   “Victory at Last!”  Mission Possible is a book for women living in an unequally-yoked marriage. It offers the reader hope and encouragement using God's Word and applying Biblical truths.
            Jesus said to him, “Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed.  Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” 
            My husband needs to have that personal revelation of Jesus where there is no doubt that He is real!  When he has a profession of faith that rivals that of Thomas in scripture, that will be a day of celebration in heaven (and on earth).  His eternal salvation will be secured and the “head knowledge” will be replaced with the “heart knowledge”.  Remember Romans 10:20?  That is “his” verse; “I was found by those who did not seek Me; I was manifest to those who did not ask for Me.”Copyright © Deborah McCarragher and God Mission Possible, 2010-2012.

I'm waiting and hopeful that my husband will truly be converted as a disciple of Christ.  

After 20+ years of being unequally-yoked in marriage, I'm longing for spiritual intimacy and the opportunity to grow old together - serving the Lord.  I cannot see into my husband's heart, but I do know that there will be evidences of a real conversion.  I am a fruit inspector, not a fruit cultivator.  Jesus brings forth the fruit.  

Here is a passage from the Message translation that testifies to a true believer...

This is how we know we’re living steadily and deeply in him, and he in us: He’s given us life from his life, from his very own Spirit.  Also, we’ve seen for ourselves and continue to state openly that the Father sent his Son as Savior of the world.  Everyone who confesses that Jesus is God’s Son participates continuously in an intimate relationship with God.  We know it so well, we’ve embraced it heart and soul, this love that comes from God.   [I John 4:13-15  MSG]
Hold fast to your hope - do not waiver.  Let your faith rise to the occasion.  Believe in God's ability to reach your husband's soul.  Don't give up...







Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “MissionPossible”.  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visithttp://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com