Deborah L. McCarragher's Blog, page 14

I'll bet your FAITH has not been tested like this...

Welcome to the Book Blog Tour for author 
Elizabeth L Chalker and her new book 

Hanging On by the Scratch Marks My Nails Left Behind (Raw Faith)

About the Book
Foreword by Pastor Charles Carrin and Dr. Corey Cameron 

You—one person—an individual, can literally change this whole world with love. By focusing on love, making a choice to love, feeding all that is positive, good, and of the light with exuberance and abundance instead of feeding the negative and evil things of the darkness. You can literally change the world and yourself. One relationship--one interaction--one decision at a time.

If you are experiencing the dark night of the soul in affliction year after year, it will present you, as it has me, with opportunities not found in most other life circumstances.

This is a life story of being in the fire, where I currently remain, where my heart for the Lord has become increasingly insatiable. A deepened intimacy has developed and continues to grow even through this very moment, and will continue beyond. As you read, this is my hope and prayer for you as well.
About The Author Elizabeth Chalker is still in the furnace of life’s' calamities and fighting the good fight of faith and endurance, keeping her eyes on the prize of heaven. Before serious, physical illness devastated her body, Elizabeth was on the fast track as a successful psychologist and addictions specialist, working with violent juvenile offenders and their families, near completion of her third graduate degree. 

Her life is a testimony of faith that is steadfast and remains no matter the seemingly dark, unjust, and treacherous circumstances of life. She resides in Lighthouse Point, Florida. Elizabeth continues to minister to those in need and aspires to show God's glory through every breath she takes. Before and After photos of Elizabeth: 
This is a real life story of being in the fire, where I currently remain, where my heart for the Lord has become increasingly insatiable. A deepened intimacy has developed and continues to grow even through this very moment, and will continue beyond. As you read, this is my hope and prayer for you as well.


Book detail: ISBN-13: 9781612151205     Publisher: Xulon Press    Publication date: 10/26/2010    Pages: 470
You can purchase her book on Amazon with the link (below)
Hanging On by the Scratch Marks My Nails Left Behind

Social Media contacts:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Elizabeth-Chalkers-Book-Page/168642796501683

Twitter: https://twitter.com/purplebu77erfly

Find and contact Elizabeth here:
 Book Website
 Personal Website
Email:   ecdonations@mindspring.com
Additional helpful information:
http://www.publichealthalert.org/pdf/2010/2010_06.pdf (this is a link to Public Health Alert medical paper, the issue has some of my story, photos, and a letter to President Obama). 


You can also view Elizabeth's Book Trailer on YouTube here:




Whatever you do - get this book as an encouragement for yourself or someone you know... This is what real Faith is all about!









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

Faith as a Mustard Seed - Do you have it?

In Luke 7:2-10 we find the story of the Roman  centurion .  A parallel passage is found in Matthew 8:5-13 with a slight variation in the details.  Nonetheless, both biblical accounts give us great insight into extraordinary "faith in action."

In biblical times, a  centurion  was the commander of one-hundred soldiers in the occupying army.  This particular centurion lived in Capernaum, a thriving town on the Sea of Galilee, and he had been instrumental in building a synagogue for the Jews there. Though he was a gentile, he had a great affinity for the people of Capernaum, and was a godly man, well respected by all.

The  centurion  was endeared to his servant, who was sick with the palsy (paralysis). The local physicians were unable to help him. This particular servant was very valuable, which is perhaps why he was compelled to seek out the infamous “Great Physician” to heal him. He even had the elders of the Jews intercede for his servant – recognizing that he was unworthy to approach Jesus with his request in person.

As Jesus neared the  centurion’s  household, his friends relayed his message to Him, saying, “Lord, do not trouble Yourself, for I am not worthy that You should enter under my roof. Therefore I did not even think myself worthy to come to You. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I also am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”

He showed the Lord great respect, recognizing His authority was from God. He assumed a position of humility as he voiced his concerns and request. Haughtiness never earned favor with anyone. He trusted the Lord to perform all that was necessary for his servant’s healing. He recognized that Jesus, in His physical form, wasn’t needed to heal his beloved servant.
Verse 9 is the key verse in this story. Jesus marveled at the centurion’s  great faith! He admonished the crowd as He said, “I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!”  Lastly, we see the centurion’s servant healed, by the Word of the Lord, at the very hour it was proclaimed.


Below is an excerpt from my book  MISSION POSSIBLE 
Chapter 3   “Faith as a Mustard Seed”.   
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 what shall we liken the kingdom of God? Or with what parable shall we picture it? It is like a mustard seed which, when it is sown on the ground, is smaller than all the seeds on the earth; but when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all herbs, and shoots out large branches, so that the birds of the air may nest under its shade” (Mark 4:30-32). 

When we have  faith  so small it seems insignificant, God can grow it into something sturdy and supportive that even others can “nest in”. In Matthew 17:20 Jesus again said, “… for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed , you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” All things are possible with God!


One of my daily devotionals, “Streams in the Desert” by L.B. Cowman, has an entry by an unknown author named C.H.P. He talks about a passage written by Paul in the book of Galatians: “Before this faith came, we were held prisoners …locked up until faith should be revealed” (Gal. 3:23 NIV). We are set aside for a time to learn a more excellent way of faith. 

Moses, Joseph, Paul, Silas, and even John all learned about being “put aside” for a season to be locked-up to faith. Commit your circumstances to God. praise Him, and claim Romans 8:28 that “He will work all things to good for those who love Him and are the called according to His purpose.” Isaiah 64:4 promises that God “acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.” Others will receive insight and blessings because you were “locked-up” to learn the way of faith.


So - where has your faith been challenged lately?  Did your faith start out "small as a mustard seed?"  Are your faith muscles growing as you continue to walk this path called life?

Hebrews 11 has been called the “Faith Chapter”. Paul writes, “By  faith  we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible” (Hebrews 11:3). We can frame our husband with the Word of God by speaking into existence his salvation. God’s Word will not return void.  Isaiah 46:11states, “Indeed I have spoken it; I will also bring it to pass. I have purposed it; I will also do it.”  II Corinthians 1:20 states “For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.” 

Amen means so be it! God's promises are trustworthy!










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

Labor is all about work, or is it?

labor:  expenditure of physical or mental effort especially when difficult or compulsory.
The nation pays tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation's strength, freedom, and leadership — namely, the Americanworker.   
Labor Day  became an official American holiday in 1894.  
America’s vital force of labor added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known.   Labor Day  is an opportunity for Americans to celebrate their diverse talents and the benefits of a capitalist society.   
As a  laborer  in the Kingdom of God, we also have high standards and goals to uphold. The Apostle Paul exhorts workers in Colossians 3:23, “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” Our work ethic is forged in God’s Word, and as Christians, we are on display for the whole world to view.  Paul often spoke of his “ labors ” as he rebutted his opponents about supporting himself, or while praising a church-plant for their  "labor of love ."
In Ephesians 4:28 he writes to the church regarding work saying, “Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need.” I Corinthians 3:9 tells us “we are God’s fellow workers.” Paul referred to his own service to his beloved children as “being poured out as a drink offering” and was glad for it. 
The writer of Hebrews instructs us in verses 10-12 to be confident of the blessing we will receive as we serve the Body of Christ - “For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” 
Our biblical work ethic is the backbone of the success this country has enjoyed for over 200 years.
Jesus Himself commended the church at Ephesus, in Revelation 2:2, saying, “I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil...”  
The word labor congers up an image of a woman about to bear a child.  Pain intensifies as the contractions progress.  However, once the child is born, the mind has a way of forgetting the pain and focusing on the newborn.  When we labor for something that is important to us - something that will make a difference - it often ends up being less of a chore and more of a privilege.
Here's a timely anecdote:

A stranger came to three workman all of whom were employed on the same job.  He asked each worker what he was doing.  Growled the first man: "I'm breaking rocks."  Said the second: "I'm earning a living." But the third man replied with a smile, "I'm building a cathedral."
If you labor in love for something, it’s really not work after all…

If a task is once begun, never leave it till it’s done.  Be the labor great or small, do it well or not at all.   ~Anonymous
“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all of your might.”  (Ecclesiastes 9:10)  







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

Has God Put You In "Time Out" ?

"My dear child, don't shrug off God's discipline, but don't be crushed by it either.  It's the child He loves that He disciplines; the child He embraces, He also corrects."   (Hebrews 12:5  MSG)



The point of discipline is to redirect or correct behavior that is inappropriate or unacceptable.
I know we’ve all been there.  God has just pricked our hearts via the Holy Spirit right after we let loose a barrage of hurtful words towards our spouse.  Or perhaps it was the uneasy feeling we had when we realized just how ungrateful we were acting after they had done something nice for us. 
How is it we usually know when we’ve just been disciplined by our Heavenly Father?
In the devotional “My Utmost For His Highest” by Oswald Chambers, this passage speaks to that very point:    Never quench the Spirit, and do not despise Him when He says to you – “Don’t be blind on this point anymore; you are not where you thought you were.”  …We get into sulks with God and say – “Oh, well, I can’t help it; I did pray and things did not turn out right…”
Are you giving the Holy Spirit opportunity to work on your attitude?  Do you allow the Word of God to penetrate and stir your thoughts?  Have godly friends approached you with concerns over your blatant petty actions?
The Apostle Paul struggled with things that we all deal with.  He knew God’s commands were necessary to help point us in the right direction.  However, he also knew that his flesh – his human nature – was at times getting the best of him.  Here’s how he frames the issue in Romans 7:18-23 – (The Message)
     For if I know the law but still can’t keep it, and if the power of sin within me keeps sabotaging my best intentions, I obviously need help! I realize that I don’t have what it takes. I can will it, but I can’t do it. I decide to do good, but I don’t really do it; I decide not to do bad, but then I do it anyway. My decisions, such as they are, don’t result in actions. Something has gone wrong deep within me and gets the better of me every time.
     It happens so regularly that it’s predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God’s commands, but it’s pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge.

So what do you do when you first feel the pangs of conviction start to stir?
First of all, quit making excuses and own your sin.  Don’t be stiff-necked and un-pliable.  Let God chasten you for the purpose of spiritual maturing.  Embrace His gentle and loving rebuke.  In the end, it will “yield the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:11).
Tender your heart… Still your mind… Open your ears…
Next time you’ve found yourself at odds with your mate over a matter that seems trivial, use discernment and wisdom that only God can give. The last thing you want to face is your Heavenly Father putting you in a well-deserved “time out”.






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

Your Provision Is Right Behind You

God's  provision often comes in unique ways, from odd sources and always at just the right time. 
Are you yearning for something from God just now?  Perhaps you’re waiting for an answer to prayer… a job, a marriage, a prodigal.  You might be hoping for a miracle… a healing, a pregnancy, or maybe a new beginning.
Jehovah~Jireh  [The Lord Will Provide]  - 
The text in Chapter 22 of Genesis begins with God testing Abraham using the very thing He promised to give him years earlier.  Abraham’s only son – flesh of his flesh – was to be offered up as a burnt offering on a mountain in the land of Moriah.  Isaac was precious to him and Sarah, and that made the request all the more heart-wrenching for the aging father. 
After Abraham and Isaac left the young men and donkey behind, they traveled to the place God had shown him.  Isaac carried the wood on his back and Abraham carried the fire and a knife for the sacrifice.  As they journeyed, Isaac voiced his concern over the fact that there was no lamb for the burnt offering.  That is when Abraham told his son, “God will provide for Himself the lamb for a burnt offering.”
As Isaac lay bound on the crude altar upon the wood, Abraham lifted his weapon to slay his son.  The Angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven saying, “Abraham, Abraham!” “Do not lay your hand on the lad, or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me.”
Verse 13 says, “Then Abraham lifted his eyes and looked, and there behind him was a ram caught in a thicket by its horns.  So Abraham went and took the ram, and offered it up for a burnt offering instead of his son.  And Abraham called the name of the place, The-Lord-Will-Provide; as it is said to this day."  Abraham knew God would provide what was required.  Faith told him to believe God for the provision, but he did not know how it would come.
We often look ahead to see what God will do on our behalf when we have a need.  We rehearse in our mind just how it all might come together. But I began to think about how Abraham’s provision was behind him.  
As he was concentrating on being obedient to God, he was totally unaware of how God was orchestrating his circumstances.  God would position exactly what was needed at precisely the right time in exactly the right place.


This is a great quote by one of my favorite Bible study teachers and mentors:
"Not only has Jehovah-Jireh foreseen your need for eternal salvation,  He also sees your day-by-day needs."    (Kay Arthur – To Know Him by Name)

Remember, God’s great vault contains all of the gold, silver and precious metals this earth contains.  His treasure chest is overflowing with diamonds, rubies, and all kinds of precious stones.  He owns the cattle on a thousand hills and He is the keeper of all living creatures.  
God has no lack – He simply cannot run out of provision for you and me.
In Matthew 17:27 Jesus provided what was needed in dramatic fashion.  Peter was confronted by the temple tax collector and assured him that his Teacher paid lawful taxes. The One whom the wind and waves obeyed instructed Peter to go out and cast a hook into the sea. He was told to take the first fish that came up and retrieve a coin from its mouth, sufficient to pay the exact temple tax for two as was required.
Whatever you are in need of – your Heavenly Father can and will supply.  Do not recoil from asking, nor despair while you wait… 
He is already moving mountains and placing  your ram in the thicket behind you.







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

Where Are You Looking For Your Provision?

God's  provision often comes in unique ways, from odd sources and always at just the right time. 
Are you yearning for something from God just now?  Perhaps you’re waiting for an answer to prayer… a job, a marriage, a prodigal.  You might be hoping for a miracle… a healing, a pregnancy, or maybe a new beginning.
Jehovah~jireh  [The Lord Will Provide]  - 
The text in Chapter 22 of Genesis begins with God testing Abraham using the very thing He promised to give him years earlier.  Abraham’s only son – flesh of his flesh – was to be offered up as a burnt offering on a mountain in the land of Moriah.  Isaac was precious to him and Sarah, and that made the request all the more heart-wrenching for the aging father. 
After Abraham and Isaac left the young men and donkey behind, they traveled to the place God had shown him.  Isaac carried the wood on his back and Abraham carried the fire and a knife for the sacrifice.  As they journeyed, Isaac voiced his concern over the fact that there was no lamb for the burnt offering.  That is when Abraham told his son, “God will provide for Himself the lamb for a burnt offering.”
As Isaac lay bound on the crude altar upon the wood, Abraham lifted his weapon to slay his son.  The Angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven saying, “Abraham, Abraham!” “Do not lay your hand on the lad, or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me.”
Verse 13 says, “Then Abraham lifted his eyes and looked, and there behind him was a ram caught in a thicket by its horns.  So Abraham went and took the ram, and offered it up for a burnt offering instead of his son.  And Abraham called the name of the place, The-Lord-Will-Provide; as it is said to this day."  Abraham knew God would provide what was required.  Faith told him to believe God for the provision, but he did not know how it would come.
We often look ahead to see what God will do on our behalf when we have a need.  We rehearse in our mind just how it all might come together. But I began to think about how Abraham’s provision was behind him.  
As he was concentrating on being obedient to God, he was totally unaware of how God was orchestrating his circumstances.  God would position exactly what was needed at precisely the right time in exactly the right place.


This is a great quote by one of my favorite Bible study teachers and mentors:
"Not only has Jehovah-jireh forseen your need for eternal salvation,  He also sees your day-by-day needs."    (Kay Arthur – To Know Him by Name)

Remember, God’s great vault contains all of the gold, silver and precious metals this earth contains.  His treasure chest is overflowing with diamonds, rubies, and all kinds of precious stones.  He owns the cattle on a thousand hills and He is the keeper of all living creatures.  
God has no lack – He simply cannot run out of provision for you and me.
In Matthew 17:27 Jesus provided what was needed in dramatic fashion.  Peter was confronted by the temple tax collector and assured him that his Teacher paid lawful taxes. The One whom the wind and waves obeyed instructed Peter to go out and cast a hook into the sea. He was told to take the first fish that came up and retrieve a coin from its mouth, sufficient to pay the exact temple tax for two as was required.
Whatever you are in need of – your Heavenly Father can and will supply.  Do not recoil from asking, nor despair while you wait… 
He is already moving mountains and placing  your ram in the thicket behind you.







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

Can't We All Just Get Along?

“If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” (Romans 12:18)
(This is a summer rerun of a favorite post)

Don’t you just hate to be in the middle of a conflict? Or how about living in a home where there is strife and tension? I don’t know about you, but I desperately want to live in a tranquil environment.  I admit it – when all is said and done, I’m a peacemaker! 

That being said, I realize I can’t always control my surroundings, but I surely have a pivotal role to play in how I relate to others when peace becomes elusive.  But what happens when peace is lacking in our family, personal and work relationships?  How is it possible to keep the peace then?
When we endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3), we have done so without offending God and wounding our conscience.   

We have a dire responsibility –a holy charge if you will – to be at peace with all men, but especially in the Lord’s house.  This charge conveys the urgency of nothing being left undone on our part, in order to preserve that peace.   If you want to focus your worship on God, you’ll have to make peace with your fellow man.  
In Matthew 5:23 Jesus says, “Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way.  First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” He declared that when you are rightly related to God, you will do things differently from the world’s ways.  Jesus had just taught the famous sermon on the mount to the multitudes that surrounded Him on the hillside, including the beatitude; “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God.” 

Why are the peacemakers blessed?  Because they are submitted to God – under His mighty hand – useful for the Kingdom. They have rightly rejected their right to their own way.  They have peaceably humbled themselves unto God (James 4).
Hebrews 12:14 instructs us to, “Pursue peace with all men, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking diligently lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled…” 

Peace and holiness go hand in hand.  Proverbs 4:23 declares, “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.”   Psalm 24 says, only “he who has clean hands and a pure heart” can stand in the presence of God.
Preserving peace often entails a sacrifice on your part.   Sometimes it means “biting your tongue” and swallowing unpleasant words to keep from spewing them out.  We are told to impart grace to the hearers (Ephesians 4:29), and season our speech with salt, knowing how to answer those who are curious about our walk with the Lord, thus encouraging dialog in a peaceful manner.  Remember, we are still a “work in progress” and in the process of sanctification.


In the book of Romans, Paul addresses the believers in Rome concerning their Christian duty to God, to themselves, and to their fellow man.  After teaching on the believer’s position in Christ, he exhorts them to live a transformed life, thus bringing glory to God.  Beginning in Chapter 12, verse 1, Paul pleads with them to lay down their lives on the altar, as it were, for the sake of Christ.  By giving over their own bodies as sacrifices, they would relinquish any right to their own destiny or desires.  Their offering is purely voluntary, and thus, honoring to God.
The great bible commentator, Matthew Henry had this to say about the Romans passage: “Study the things that make for peace... peace without purity is the peace of the devil’s palace.”
Faith and patience will enable you to follow after peace and holiness.  Be sure to never discard a conviction, if God brings to mind something that He wants you to do to foster peace in a situation.  Don’t have an obstinate attitude – realize that you will be held accountable to God for dismissing a perfectly good solution to “making peace” with your brother.
Finally, here are four (4) brief things to keep in mind with regards to living in peace…
Don’t be judgmentalPick your battles wiselyLook for common ground Always defer to the Holy Spirit’s leading



Remember, others are depending on you to be a peacemaker… If you are God’s child, you have all you need to be successful within God’s sovereign plan.  Make it a point to do all you can to foster true peace, that your spouse would recognize your efforts and God would receive all the glory!









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

Does Your Garbage Stink? Don't Trash Your Marriage...

Okay… so you’ve run into another roadblock in your relationship.   
You and your husband have been treating each other to a less than “civil” dialog lately and you’re looking for a place to broadcast it.  Not a good idea…
One of the best quotes I’ve ever heard regarding a hurting heart is from Joyce Meyer .  Her advice is to, “Run to the Throne instead of the phone.”  It’s a simple concept:  when you’ve been emotionally hurt and you want some sympathy from your best friend or neighbor, run to God instead.  He will listen without prejudice and love you without condemnation.  Most importantly, He will not just tell you what you want to hear. He will speak directly to your heart.
Why – do you say – would I not want to go visit my friend and pour my heart out to her?   Simple enough…  Let’s suppose the situation is reversed.  What if your best friend called you or ran over to your house to tell you the latest trash talk about her marriage.  What would you do?
Before you answer that question – let me ask you this: Do you consider yourself to be a mentor to someone else in your church, family or circle of friends (Titus 2:3-5)?  Do you feel a greater level of responsibility and accountability for your answers and advice?  Do you grasp for something to say, or do you prayerfully seek Godly wisdom and direction first?
Believe me – I’m preaching to myself here!
Though we can be an oasis at times for others, we must point them to Jesus , the eternal well of Living Water.  God’s Word quenches every thirst and satisfies truly parched souls.  It holds the key to a fulfilling marriage - even when only one of you follow it's principles.  
Back to the original dilemma – You or your friend are fuming because of something that happened at home.  Maybe you’re still angry or upset because it appears he just isn’t sensitive to your feelings.  Somehow you feel that you’ve been taken advantage of.  You're getting tired of arguing over the same old things.  Nothing ever changes – it’s always your fault somehow…
Married life is so much more rewarding when we cooperate with each other.  Remember, we’re on the same team! 
Enjoy these insightful quotes about cooperation :
Cooperation is spelled with two letters:  we.    -G.M. Verity
Coming together is a beginning; staying together is progress; working together is success.  -Anonymous
Can two walk together, except they be agreed?   -Amos (Amos 3:3 KJV)
We may not always see eye to eye, but we should always walk hand in hand.   -Anonymous

Here are some basic Biblical points concerning our husbands – 1.      Men need to be loved and respected.  (Ephes. 5:33)2.      Men need to be affirmed and appreciated.  (Ephes. 4:29)3.      Men need to feel they are needed and have purpose. (Gen. 2:15-18)
That being said - there are times when we just don't feel like they deserve it...

This is an excerptfrom my book Mission Possible – Chapter 4 – Painful Reality
Another area of battle is coping with the daily changes that occur within yourself, and how that interacts with your mate… Part of that is reflected in your relationship – as a wife, friend and lover.  There unfortunately are things that you begin to dislike about him.  We are to “love the sinner, but hate the sin.”
There were times I had to pray, “Lord, give me a desirefor my husband…help me to love him with Your love, because I don’t like him very much right now.”  Remember, you have to “take every thought captive, unto the obedience of Christ” (II Corinthians 10:5).  Give it to God and then you will have peace.   Isaiah 3:26 says, “You will keep him [her] in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trust in You.”

Just remember that grace extended goes a long way to fostering harmony in the home. 

Finally - take a look at my new Book Trailer for Mission Possible - Spiritual Covering

( I'd really appreciate a "Like" and a "Share" )







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

Author Dineen Miller and her new book The Soul Saver

I want to welcome my friend Dineen Miller and congratulate her on her newest book:  The Soul Saver.

Dineen will be giving away a copy of her book.  To enter the giveaway - please leave a comment below telling her why this book would be an encouragement to you.  We will be selecting a winner at random and will make the announcement on Monday July 23rd.  Be sure to leave your name and email address so we can notify you!


Author Bio
Dineen Miller readily admits that one of the greatest lessons she’s learning about life is that there’s purpose in our trials. It’s all about trusting God and putting our hope in Him. Her favorite stories are of the miracles God has wrought in the lives of her family.
Through this lens she also believes her years as a youth counselor, a Stephen Minister, a women’s ministry leader, and a small group leader fuel her desire to ignite the souls of others through words of truth.In addition to writing for Spiritually Unequal Marriage, Dineen Miller has won several prestigious awards for her fiction. She’s also a C.L.A.S.S. Communicator and has been featured on the Moody Radio Network, Family Life and Focus on the Family Radio.Married for 24 years to a guy who keeps her young, she lives in the Bay Area with her husband and two adult daughters, who surprise her daily with their own creativity.


Author Interview      1.       Please tell us a little background about yourself and how you became a writer.My first taste of writing arrived unexpectedly in the fourth grade. I still remember my first story of an Irish Red Setter who had a broken leg. The tale (or should I say tail?) was completely based upon what I’d witnessed from our apartment window when I was much younger, maybe five or six years old. That was the start. From there I continued to write short stories, poetry and reflections through high school, college and then into life as a wife and mother. I didn’t seriously pursue it as a profession until 2004. Until then it was just something I did for myself.
The possibility first presented itself when I read an ad in the back of a craft magazine calling for book ideas. I thought they meant fiction and sent away for the information packet, thinking it might be a good way to earn money and still stay home with my young daughters (feel free to laugh). In the interim, I started writing a story with the intent to write a complete book—something I’d always wanted to do. To my chagrin, the call for books was actually for craft books. LOL! By then it was too late, I was hooked! I had to finish the story and the world of writing books opened and took permanent residence in my life.
2.       Can you give us some background on this book and what led you to write it?My ministry partner, Lynn Donovan, and I had written a non-fiction book, Winning Him Without Words, which released from Regal Books in 2011. I was inspired by the way the movie Fireproofand the book The Love Dare worked together to “show AND tell” some very real truths about marriage. I wanted to do something similar—to somehow show that God is very present in mismatched marriages, blessing and helping the believing spouse to love their unbeliever right where they are. Just like we see Jesus do in the Bible. And to show the spiritual warfare so inherent in these types of marriages because it truly is a battle of the enemy to keep a lost soul.
Marriage is our greatest example of a covenant relationship, which is intended to mirror our relationship with God. No wonder the enemy is busy working to destroy so many marriages. From that, the concept of The Soul Saverwas born. And having first hand experience of what it’s like to be in a mismatched marriage and to see how God can work in amazing ways through every bit of it was something I so desperately wanted to share and give others like me the wild hope we have in Jesus. God is there and He is so very faithful!
3.       What has been the most challenging thing you’ve encountered while writing this book?Writing consistently through my youngest daughter’s cancer diagnosis, surgeries and treatments. Naturally, it took me longer but writing became a balm in a very turbulent time. Then came the challenge to get it published but that’s a story for another time. :-)
4.       How have you used this book as a ministry tool to further the Kingdom of God?To compliment the message we share in our Winning Him Without Wordsbook. God is most definitely in the center of our mismatched marriages but we often don’t see Him or don’t believe it. How could He not be involved where a soul is at stake? Right? I hope that The Soul Saver helps not only those in mismatched marriages to have hope in God’s plan for their marriage but also for those struggling in any way in their marriage to know that God is stronger than anything we face, including the enemy so bent on destroying what God designed to be a reflection of our relationship with Him.
View her book video here:  The Soul Saver Booktrailer
Where to find Dineen on the web
Websites: http://www.dineenmiller.comhttp://spirituallyunequalmarriage.com
Facebook pages:https://www.facebook.com/DineenMiller.AuthorSpeakerhttps://www.facebook.com/SpirituallyUnequalMarriage
Twitter  @dineenmiller   Personal Blog:  http://www.authordineenmiller.com/jou...  GoodReads author page:  http://www.goodreads.com/dineenmiller  
Where to buy Soul Saver
AMAZON C B CBARNES & NOBLE






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

The Meadow Is Looking Mighty Good Right Now...

"God is my shepherd! I don't need a thing. You have bedded me down in lush meadows; you find me quiet pools to drink from. True to your word, you let me catch my breath and send me in the right direction. Even when the way goes through Death Valley, I'm not afraid when you walk at my side. Your trusty shepherd's crook makes me feel secure.  You serve me a six-course dinner right in front of my enemies. you revive my drooping head; my cut brims with blessings. Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life. I'm back home in the house of God for the rest of my life."   Psalm 23:1-6 (The Message) 

When a ruddy little shepherd boy named David needed rest - he talked to his Heavenly Father in a way that related to his experiences out in the fields and the lush grassy hills surrounding Jerusalem.  

God has a way of "pulling us away" to a place of rest and restoration.  Sometimes it is by invitation, or by His divine appointment.  Other times it is through His grace and coercion. When the weight of the world is pressing down and a sense of heaviness invades your soul, steal away time to refresh yourself.  


Rest:  freedom from activity or labor; a state of inactivity; peace of mind or spirit.


Jesus often spoke to the crowds that were pressing in around Him and comforted them with these words, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). 
Oswald Chambers had this to say regarding Matthew 11:28 ~
   "God means us to live a fully orbed life in Christ Jesus, but there are times when that life is attacked from the outside, and we tumble into a way of introspection which we thought had gone. Self-consciousness is the first thing that will upset the completeness of the life in God, and self-consciousness continually produces wrestling... Anything that disturbs rest in Him must be cured at once, and it is not cured by being ignored, but by coming to Jesus Christ... The great solution is the simple one - "Come unto Me."




Sheep have a natural propensity to stay near their shepherd. They watch his every move and look to him for their mobility and safety.  They follow him along craggy stone paths, and meander near him in the thick meadow as they graze.  Their shepherd's presence frees them up to rest and refresh without anxiety or panic.

Our Shepherd is a good shepherd and gives His life for His sheep (John 10:11).  Our Shepherd knows his sheep and they know Him (John 10:14).

Isaiah 40:11 tells us, "He [God] will feed His flock like a shepherd; and carry them in His bosom, and gently lead those who are with young."  

When you are overwhelmed with life's demands and pressures, start looking for a meadow.

Your meadow might be a walk in your neighborhood or park.  It might be stealing a half hour for yourself while the kids are playing, or listening to uplifting music in your car. Take in nature's wonders and reflect on your heavenly Father's love and care for you.  Use that time to read His Word and delve into the Psalms.  One of my favorites is Psalm 55:6, "Oh, that I had wings like a dove!  For then I would fly away and be at rest." 

I wrote this poem in the Spring of 2003. May it minister to your very soul  ~

Enter My Rest...
Family and workloads, deadlines and tests,weary and tired, surely hard pressed;other's demands and schedules leftweighing on shoulders meant for much less.Daughter of Mine...enter My Rest.
Steep is the path of life's daily trek -hard is the road that leads to His best.Often no thanks or kindness is shown,only a sharp reply they confess.Daughter of Mine...enter My Rest.
Lay aside weights and all heaviness,leaving behind the hurt and the pain.Let me restore what value is left.Come...pull away - be free and be blessed.Daughter of Mine...enter My Rest.
DL McCarragher 








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