Deborah L. McCarragher's Blog, page 15

In the Eye of the Beholder

Okay, so we know that men (and our husbands in particular) are visual creatures…

In her book,  For Women Only – Shaunti Feldhahn tells her readers that she believes God created man “with two strong tendencies to be visually driven”.  One is that a woman with a great body is an eye magnet, and the other is that each man has a mental rolodex of stored images that can intrude into his thought life at random.
Shaunti goes on to say, “…You love your husband as a man, and this characteristic is part of what makes him a man. Even if your husband is the finest man in all the earth, and even if you were a gorgeous model, your husband would still have this vulnerability…”  “Remember the garden in Genesis 2:23?  Adam was excited to see Eve. He was visually attracted to his new mate.”
Proverbs 27:20 says, “The eyes of man are never satisfied” (KJV).
Men have an obligation to their wives to “forsake all others” according to the vows they take during their marital ceremony.  Looking is not adultery.  However, looking can lead to sin, as evidenced by King David in II Samuel 11:1-5.  God has wired men to be stimulated by sight.  Only He knows why He did it. However, Job makes an important statement about his personal integrity with regards to other women: “I have made a covenant with my eyes; why then should I look upon a young woman?” (Job 31:1).
I personally believe it is important to look attractive for your spouse, as well as for your own self-esteem. Going to the gym or exercising at home, eating right, getting plenty of sleep, grooming and dressing appropriately for your age are all needful to maintain a healthy and happy relationship. 
My husband might gaze at another woman for a moment, and admire her shape, but he’s out in public with me.  It’s important to him that he is out with a woman that is attractive and happy with herself and her appearance.  Let me give you an example:
A few years ago my sister-in-law was living with us for a brief period while she was separated from her husband.  She is the eldest of four siblings.  My husband is the youngest.  I was working late one evening and we agreed that I would meet the two of them for dinner near our home.  My sister-in-law didn’t make a real effort that night to look as presentable as she could have.  When they arrived at the restaurant, the manager asked him if he and his wife would like a booth or a table.  Well, that really bugged him and I heard all about it.  He was used to going out in public with me.  I generally look nice and neat, with hair and makeup done.  He said, “From now on you come home first so we can ride together and be seated together!” 
He was simply embarrassed by the whole ordeal and felt uncomfortable with a woman who wasn’t dressed well.   He valued the initiative I took to look presentable for him.  It made him feel proud to have me by his side. 
I imagine Adam was elated to have Eve by his side, as she was attractive and made him feel complete.
I say all that to say this:  I may not be a “head turner” or look like I used to 35 years ago, but I do try to take good care of myself and work with what I have!  I make sure that when I go out with my husband, I make him proud to be out in public with me.  Men have pride in their mates and it’s in their nature to show off their wife – even if it’s subconsciously. 
However, our self-image should not be solely in our appearance.  God’s Word tells us in I Peter 3:3-4 “Do not let your beauty be that outward adorning of arranging the hair, of wearing gold, or of putting on fine apparel; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible ornament of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.”
We know in Genesis 12:11-20 that Abram referred to his wife Sarai as “a woman of beautiful countenance”.  It was not only her physical beauty that made her attractive, but her quiet and gentle spirit.  She drew the attention of others – including Pharaoh himself on more than one occasion – which caused Abram severe anxiety.  But more likely she exhibited those qualities coveted by women who are more interested in pleasing the heart of God, than in pleasing the eyes of men.

Colossians 3:12-14 exhort us to “…put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering, forgiveness and above all – put on love, which is the bond of perfection.” Paul admonishes us to “put on” these qualities which exhibit the very nature of God by deliberate effort. That is what is truly attractive to our spouses and the world around us.

What do we do with our desire to look good for our man and our devotion to the Lord?  

We can honor both with our actions and decisions.  We can model God’s attributes while we care for our temples.  We can strive to preserve our physical bodies as we vow to nurture our spiritual ones.
Don’t be caught up in the latest fashion trend, spray tan, or age-defying beauty treatments.  Keep your eyes on your Creator.  He will preserve you and give you a healthy glow.
“Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.”  (Proverbs 31:30)







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

Happy 4th of July - Celebrate Your Light!

   It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.(NIV) 

   Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.(KJV)

   It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. (NAS)

  ~ (Galatians 5:1)

Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a celebrated federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. On July 2, 1776 legal separation of the American colonies from the kingdom of Great Britain occurred, declaring freedom from their tyrannical rule. Afterwards, the Second Continental Congress debated and revised the Declaration, finally approving it on July 4th.  
Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, political speeches, ceremonies, and various other public and private events celebrating the United States of America’s history, government, and traditions.
Some of my favorite Scriptures on freedom and liberty:  
Speaking to Jewish believers, Jesus said, “Therefore, if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.“ (John 8:36) 

[Jesus] Himself will proclaim liberty to the captives, and open the prison [doors] to those who are bound. (Isaiah 61:1)

"The Lord will let the oppressed go free, and break every yoke." (Isaiah 58:6)

James states, “but he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does." (James 1:25)

"Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." (II Corinthians 3:17)  

"For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God." (Romans 8:20-21).

Once we're freed from the bonds of sin - we must "shine our light" for all to see! 
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)


My hubby and I just recently saw Madagascar 3 in the movie theater  (Yes...we were there without our granddaughter!).  Anyways, I just love this song, sung by Katy Perry. Here are some of the lyrics...
Firework
Do you ever feel like a plastic bag,drifting through the windwanting to start again?Do you ever feel, feel so paper thinlike a house of cards,one blow from caving in?
Do you ever feel already buried deep?6 feet under screams but no one seems to hear a thingDo you know that there's still a chance for you?'Cause there's a spark in you
You just gotta ignite, the light, and let it shineJust own the night like the 4th of July
'Cause baby you're a fireworkCome on, show 'em what you're worthMake 'em go "Oh, Oh, Oh"As you shoot across the Sky -y -y


Happy 4th of July  -  Enjoy the video
(Best browsers for viewing are Google Chrome & Internet Explorer)








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

The Wounded Trilogy - by Lynn Dove

To celebrate the release of the third and final book of  The Wounded Trilogy – Love the Wounded , Lynn Dove is doing an online promotion of all three of her award-winning books - June 24th  -  June 27th, 2012.

Lynn is a fellow John 3:16 Network Author
ABOUT THE WOUNDED TRILOGY 
In Her Own Words -
Someone asked me the other day what motivated me to write the “ Wounded Trilogy ”.  Easy answer:  I wanted to make sure that every young person and adult that read my books would know that God loves them, He cares for them and no matter what circumstance in life they may find themselves, they are not alone.  My books deal frankly with the subjects of bullying, gossip, cancer and other social issues that teens and adults face daily.  I want to get the message out especially with regards to bullying that they need not remain victims any longer. This is why my books are listed as resources on one of the world’s largest anti-bullying websites in the world: www.bullying.org
WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING
“As a contemporary Christian novel for youth, Shoot the Wounded delivers the gospel with enough angst that it is sure to meet with the approval of today’s teen.  It delves into relevant topics such as teen pregnancy and family violence, mixed with the usual boy-girl relationships and coming of age themes common to YA fiction.  In this book we see that being a Christian isn’t easy, and it certainly doesn’t mean you are perfect.  Shoot the Wounded is the first in a trilogy by Canadian author Lynn Dove and sets the stage for its equaling engrossing sequel, Heal the Wounded.  This is a set that should be in every school, church and public library” – Tracy Krauss – author- My Mother the Man-Eater
“(Shoot the Wounded) and (Heal the Wounded) are both really good books that actually choose to address stuff that teenagers have to deal with, as opposed to stuff adults think we deal with…Read them!” – Vicki M. (16 yrs. old)  “Wow!!! …  I recommend (these books) to any young teenager who is looking for a great book. These books are so addictive,… at school I couldn’t wait for the class to end so I could read… Favorite book series ! <3” – Hayley R. (14 yrs. old)
Shoot the Wounded – finalist in the 2010 Reader’s Favorite Book Awards (Young Adult Category)

Heal the Wounded – Bronze Medal Winner in the 2011 Reader’s Favorite Book Awards (Young Adult – Coming of Age Category) and finalist in the Christian – General Fiction category.

Anyone who purchases Shoot the Wounded ,  Heal the Wounded  and/or Love the Wounded on Amazon.com or Amazon.ca  (or on the website ) over the next four days will receive several FREE e-gifts as well as being entered to win other great print books!


***  For all the FREE gifts w/ purchase - Visit Lynn's   OFFICIAL LANDING PAGE

You can also visit Lynn's website at   WORD SALT

 Don't forget to tell others - including your favorite teenagers about these great books for summer reading!







 
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

Building Something That Lasts

According the Webster’s dictionary – this is the definition of build…
Build:  to form by uniting materials by gradual means into a composite whole; to cause to be constructed; to develop according to a systematic plan.
In Scripture, God has laid forth specific plans with regards to building. From Genesis to Revelation, God’s pattern for building is perfect and comprehensive.
In Genesis 6:14-16 Noah was given specific directions and measurements for building the ark of gopher wood that would provide salvation for his family from the great flood.  In Exodus 25-27 Moses was shown the pattern of the tabernacle and furnishings according to God’s commandment.  I Chronicles 28:11-12 tells us that “by the Spirit” God had given King David the detailed building plans for the temple, its chambers and its elaborate furnishings that his son Solomon would build for the LORD.  Another example is in Nehemiah 2:1-6:19 where we see through God’s prompting, Nehemiah led the rebuilding effort in Jerusalem to repair the dilapidated walls around the Holy city.
What do you need to rebuild in your life?
We all have walls that are crumbling. There may be gaps and breaches in our marriage. We might have rotten beams and floor boards missing when it comes to our siblings or children.  There could be pesky leaks and water damage within our other family relationships. Some of us have walls in our workplace that are in desperate need of repair. Or, it just may be time for some serious ceiling and support restoration with regards to our Lord and Savior - Jesus Christ.
Timing is the key to successful building. Ecclesiastes 3:1-3 says “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven… a time to break down; and a time to build up”.  Use spiritual sensitivity and God’s leading to determine when is a good time to “count the cost” and assemble the tools you’ll need to begin the project.  Many times we cannot proceed with repairs until we’ve conducted some self-evaluation.  Matthew 7:3 says, “And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me remove the speck out of your eye’, and look, a plank is in your own eye?  Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck out of your brother’s eye.”  Use humility while you conduct your inspection and honestly evaluate the situation before you begin construction.
I have discovered four major things we need to consider when a structure is laid waste or in major disrepair.  Prior to embarking on a “rebuilding or remodeling” phase – be sure you have the following:
• PROPER PROVISION
“For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it- lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all who see it begin to mock him…” (Luke 14:28-29).  Proverbs 9:1 and 14:1 talk about using wisdom to build on. Godly wisdom and understanding are sure foundations. We are to build “precept upon precept, line upon line” in increments (Isaiah 28:10).  In Nehemiah 2 we see God ordained favor and supply from King Artaxerxes for rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. Nehemiah stated that it was granted according to the “good hand of my God upon me” that all he needed was given them by the King.
• EXPERTISE
“Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it” (Psalm 127:1). Jesus said in Matthew 7:24, “Therefore, whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock.”  Paul stresses using superior building materials in I Corinthians 3:11, “For no other foundation can anyone lay other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” Also, “having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone”(Ephesians 2:20) is the only sure foundation for any wall reconstruction.  Lastly, Peter tells us in I Peter 2:5 that we, “as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house” and thus part of the rebuilding efforts taking place according to God’s design.   • PROPER TOOLS
Three tools that are essential in good quality building are:
  Godly character – “But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD. I will establish My covenant with you” (Genesis 6).   Godly wisdom & preparation – “Then Joseph said to Pharaoh, “The dreams of Pharaoh are one; God has shown Pharaoh what He is about to do…” (Genesis 41: 25; 47-57). Joseph carried out the Lord’s command through the dream to build storehouses to collect grain during the 7 years of plenty. Because Egypt was prepared, God blessed them during the 7 years of famine for Joseph’s family’s sake.   Godly example & motivation – “You see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire…Let us rise up and build” (Nehemiah 2:17-18). “Indeed, I also continued the work on this wall. ..I did not demand the governor’s provisions because the bondage was heavy on this people” (5:16; 18). Lastly, Nehemiah prayed saying, “Now therefore O God, strengthen my hands” (6:9).
• PERSEVERENCE
In Genesis 6-7, Noah spends nearly 100 years building and preparing the ark for the pending flood. It was a steady dedication and unwavering commitment to what God called him to do that marked Noah’s perseverance in the face of ridicule and scorn. 
Nehemiah 4:17 tells us he instructed his servants to work on the construction of the wall with one hand, and to hold their weapons with the other. They set their sights on the completion, and not on their enemies. He exhorted them saying, “Our God will fight for us” (Nehemiah 4:20).
Finally, take time to ensure that your building efforts will pass the test of time. Your goal is to have a job that will pass inspection and the "fire" test  (I Corinthians 3:12-14). By faith, continue building with the assurance that God indeed goes before you in victory when we build it His Way.







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 Father's Day Tribute

This Father's Day I'd like to pay tribute to our son.  
He's a U.S. Marine Corps officer serving aboard the USS Iwo Jima on an 8 mo. deployment in the Middle East.  He spent some precious moments with his daughter Sydney, as you can see from the photos I took prior to his leaving.
What a wonderful thing to see your children become parents, and then you get to observe the tenderness, love and care they exhibit as they interact with their child – your grandchild.
As children of the Living God, we have the perfect Heavenly Father . When Jesus was speaking to the crowds about worry, wealth and judging, He began teaching on asking and giving. In Matthew 7:9-11 Jesus states, “Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!” Our Father knows best. He created us and knows are intimate needs. He alone can fill the void within each heart.
The Apostle Paul often wrote to the churches he established with a deep love and concern, just as any good parent would. In I Thessalonians 2:10-12, Paul is addressing the church about the tenderness with which he and others nurtured the congregation during its infancy. He says, “You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe; as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a father does his own children, that you would have a walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.”
Then in I Timothy, Paul writes to the young preacher in a most affectionate way: “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the commandment of God our Savior and the Lord Jesus Christ, our hope, To Timothy, my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Paul took Timothy under his wing and mentored him - often referring to him as a son. Later, in II Timothy 2:1-2 he pens, “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus, To Timothy, my beloved son: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.”
When difficulties and sinful habits made their way in to the young church at Corinth, Paul writes in I Corinthians 4:14-17,“I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. Therefore, I urge you, imitate me. For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach everywhere in every church." Paul repeatedly emphasized his emulation of Father God’s love and care for His church in his response to and exhortation of believers in the first century.
This post is a "shout out" to our son Sean.  I want to convey just how proud we are of him in his role as  father to his precious little girl. Though he's on deployment until December, our prayers and best wishes are sent his way for a memorable Father's Day (via a surprise-packed Priority Mail box).
Enjoy this wonderful prayer by a well-known war hero...

A Father’s Prayer
  Build me a son, O Lord, who will be strong enough to know when he is weak, and brave enough to face himself when he is afraid; one who will be proud and unbending in honest defeat, and humble and gentle in victory.  Build me a son whose wishbone will not be where his backbone should be; a son who will know thee and that to know himself is the foundation stone of knowledge.  Lead him, I pray, not in the path of ease and comfort, but under stress and spur of difficulties and challenge.  Here let him learn to stand up in the storm; here let him learn compassion for those who fail.  Build me a son whose heart will be clear, whose goal will be high; a son who will master himself before he seeks to master other men; one who will learn to laugh, yet never forget how to weep; one who will reach into the future, yet never forget the past.  And after all these things are his, add, I pray, enough of a sense of humor, so that he may always be serious, yet never take himself too seriously.  Give him humility, so that he may always remember the simplicity of true greatness, the open mind of true wisdom, the meekness of true strength.  Then I, his father, will dare to whisper, “I have not lived in vain.”                                                                                             ~ Douglas MacArthur







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

Amazon Launch of The Christian Olympics by S.E. Gregg

Welcome to the official Amazon launch of  the Kindle version of:  The Christian Olympics - Going for the Gold Crowns  by  author S.E. Gregg.
About the book:  The Christian Olympics: Going for the Gold Crowns is the unveiling of the Bible's comparison of the Christian race to the Olympic Games. It is the spin-off from the newspaper article titled "The Christian Olympics are still going on!" written by the author .Today more than ever Christians are discouraged in their walk with God because of the multitudes of personal problems, suffering, and worldly events that have occurred. Some have given up, lost hope in their faith, and/or don't feel that living holy lives matters anymore. 

The Christian Olympics will stir up Christians, igniting their spiritual fires to look forward to what is ahead. When Christians see themselves as players in an Olympic game, it gives them a new understanding and exhilaration for the Christian life, as spiritual athletes. Readers will actually visualize themselves in a spiritual athletic competition which has never been done before in a Christian book.

Best selling and award winning author S.E. Gregg has been joined by a host of Authors, Experts, Entrepreneurs, and Volunteers to offer you prizes and Free gifts to celebrate the launch of her new
Kindle e-book, The Christian Olympics-Going for the Gold Crowns.
  About the author:
S.E. Gregg is a fellow John 3:16 Book Network author.  She has been a marathon runner in the Christian Olympics for several decades.  S. E. Gregg is a Bible school graduate and the founder of Sound Doctrine Christian Ministries. As an award winning author, gifted Bible teacher and Bible curriculum writer, Gregg has authored  the best-selling books,"Evangelism Counseling- How to Counsel People About Salvation", "The Christian Olympics-Going for the Gold Crowns" and the salvation tract, "God Became A Man". The salvation tract has been translated into the Burmese language with over 100,000 in print. Gregg lives in the Philadelphia, PA area.

An Interview with SE Gregg:

Please tell us a little background about yourself and how you became a writer.  I have been a Christian and a follower of Christ for several decades. God has been very gracious to me and has given me the spiritual gifts of teaching, preaching, evangelism, exhortation, and administration .I have discovered that I can use all five when I write. I started writing when I was in college and my English professor wanted us to keep a journal of our daily thoughts. And also through my speech classes. I had to write my speeches before delivering them to the class.  
Can you give us some background on this book and what led you to write it?
My first book was Evangelism Counseling-How to Counsel People About Salvation, an evangelism book. After people read it they would asked me if I had a book on Christian living or discipleship. So I felt that God wanted me to write one. 
What authors inspire you most?
Authors  that are sincere about the Bible and allow God to use them and let Him inspire them.
What has been the most challenging thing you’ve encountered while writing this book?
The most challenging thing was to make sure that everything that I say in the book  was in line with what  the Bible teaches. And of course the most difficult is the marketing aspect after you write the book.
When you write, what do you do to motivate yourself, and do you prefer quiet solitude or background noise when you put pen to paper?
Most of the time I am motivated by a song, hymn, or a Bible verse.  I need quiet solitude so that I can hear my thoughts and hear what God wants me to write.
Now that you have a book in print, have you elected to put it into an e-book format for the variety of e-readers in the marketplace?
Yes, my new Kindle edition will be launched Tuesday, June 12, 2012
How have you used this book as a ministry tool to further the Kingdom of God?
Yes, I use this book when I am counseling someone about how to grow spiritually, what suffering means, and  about our rewards for faithful service to God. 


A Sample  -  Chapter One: The Opening Ceremony      
Just as the flames were lit during the Opening Ceremony in the Modern Olympic Games, the “divine” Opening Ceremony in the Christian Olympics also began with the lighting of flames of fire, which symbolized the Holy Spirit. Chapter One reveals where, when, and how the Christian Olympics began, tracing its origins around the time of the Ancient Games in Greece, that began about a thousand years after the inception of the Ancient Games. 
What Others are Saying: 
As imaginative and engaging as it is thoughtful and thought-provoking, "The Christian Olympics" is enthusiastically recommended as inspirational reading for all practicing Christians regardless of their denominational affiliation.  Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA)


Gregg's writing is entertaining, inspirational, and motivating. "The Christian Olympics" is expressive, Biblically sound, and challenging. Let the Games Begin!   
Richard R. Blake, Christian Education Consultant & Book Store Owner 

To purchase - Visit the Official Launch link below:
 The Christian Olympics - Going for the Gold Crowns
 Don't forget - lots of FREE Gifts with your purchase on Amazon
 today only !


You can also Find S.E. Gregg on her website at  http://www.Christianolympics.org 










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

Trials, Troubles and Tribulations - the Triple Threat!

James 1:2-4   is familiar to most of us as the passage on “testing our faith". 
 This is what James had to say: “My brethren, count [consider] it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect [mature] and complete, lacking nothing.”

In order for us to become mature in our faith, we must remain under the testing. It is in this position that we come forth [as gold] as described by Job in chapter 23. 

Many times we question God’s sovereignty as we verbalize the familiar:  “Why is this happening to me?”  “I don’t need this!”  “Not now, God!” or “I just can’t take anymore!”  

But isn’t that just human nature? Who hasn’t cried out to God in pain and utter disbelief?

Webster’s Dictionary defines the three “T’s” this way:
 
Trial – a test of faith, patience, or stamina by suffering or tribulation; a source of vexation (irritation) or annoyance.
Trouble – to agitate mentally or spiritually; to disturb.
Tribulation – distress or suffering as a result of oppression or persecution.

I Peter 1:7-9 says, “…Though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ… receiving the end of your faith – the salvation of your souls.”   

Two brief character studies in God’s Word give us a glimpse of suffering while under trials, troubles and tribulation:

Job ~ Everyone has heard of Job. Even non-believers know that to go through a “Job experience” is to endure an awful trial or trouble. We often hear the expression: “He has the patience of Job!” Remember the passage in James 1 (above)? There is a process we must go through as we are tested. Sometimes we hear comments like, “Why do bad things happen to good people?”  Job 1:1 tells us, “There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil.” 
Job exemplifies the enormity of undeserved calamity in his testimony. Not only did Job loose his children, servants, livestock, and livelihood, but he was struck with painful boils and suffered the shame associated with his trials & tribulations . However, he never let Satan provoke him to curse God, although he cursed the day he was born. He conducted himself like a man under affliction, yet maintained his dignity in his grief. Job questioned God and received a private lesson in humility and in God's sovereignty. Eventually, God restored all that Job had lost, increasing his earthly holdings – including his lineage. For Job, the latter was greater than the former.
Paul ~ Saul (Paul) was dramatically converted by the Lord Jesus on the road to Damascus as he was carrying letters of destruction for those who were of the Way [followers of Jesus] to put them to death in Jerusalem. When Jesus selected Ananias to minister to Paul after his vision, He said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for my name’s sake.”  
After that time many attempts were made to kill Paul by the Jews (Acts 10:23), the Hellenists (Acts 10:29), and with Barnabas in Antioch where they were threatened, persecuted and expelled. II Corinthians 11 enumerates for us Paul’s many trials and troubles including being stoned, beaten, shipwrecked, lashed, and left for dead. There was sharp contention between him and Barnabas while on their missionary journeys that split up the pair, resulting in Paul and Silas teaming up to minister to the Gentiles. 

At the end of his life, while in prison, Paul addresses Timothy in his two epistles. As he encouraged the young pastor, Paul remained steadfast in his faith and mission, while acknowledging that all forsook him, save the Lord Jesus. Paul endured the constant pressure of a lifetime of trials, troubles, & tribulations , and yet he saw God’s purpose and sovereignty in all of it. Paul’s victory was this: “But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear” (II Timothy 4:17).
 
In the end, we come forth:  precious, valuable and exquisite – a true treasure of God, for His Glory!
 
A diamond must fall under the chisel in order to become a precious stone, and gold is never refined unless it remains in the fire.  
God never leaves the metal in the crucible longer than what is necessary for the burning away of the dross.  He will do the same on our behalf.“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord!” (Psalm 27:13-14)







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

Trals, Troubles and Tribulations - the Triple Threat!

James 1:2-4 is familiar to most of us as the passage on “testing our faith". 
 This is what James had to say: “My brethren, count [consider] it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect [mature] and complete, lacking nothing.”

In order for us to become mature in our faith, we must remain under the testing. It is in this position that we come forth [as gold] as described by Job in chapter 23. 

Many times we question God’s sovereignty as we verbalize the familiar:  “Why is this happening to me?”  “I don’t need this!”  “Not now, God!” or “I just can’t take anymore!”  

But isn’t that just human nature? Who hasn’t cried out to God in pain and utter disbelief?

Webster’s Dictionary defines the three “T’s” this way:
 
Trial – a test of faith, patience, or stamina by suffering or tribulation; a source of vexation (irritation) or annoyance.
Trouble – to agitate mentally or spiritually; to disturb.
Tribulation – distress or suffering as a result of oppression or persecution.

I Peter 1:7-9 says, “…Though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ… receiving the end of your faith – the salvation of your souls.”   

Two brief character studies in God’s Word give us a glimpse of suffering while under trials, troubles and tribulation:

Job ~ Everyone has heard of Job. Even non-believers know that to go through a “Job experience” is to endure an awful trial or trouble. We often hear the expression: “He has the patience of Job!” Remember the passage in James 1 (above)? There is a process we must go through as we are tested. Sometimes we hear comments like, “Why do bad things happen to good people?”  Job 1:1 tells us, “There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil.” 
Job exemplifies the enormity of undeserved calamity in his testimony. Not only did Job loose his children, servants, livestock, and livelihood, but he was struck with painful boils and suffered the shame associated with his trials & tribulations . However, he never let Satan provoke him to curse God, although he cursed the day he was born. He conducted himself like a man under affliction, yet maintained his dignity in his grief. Job questioned God and received a private lesson in humility and in God's sovereignty. Eventually, God restored all that Job had lost, increasing his earthly holdings – including his lineage. For Job, the latter was greater than the former.
Paul ~ Saul (Paul) was dramatically converted by the Lord Jesus on the road to Damascus as he was carrying letters of destruction for those who were of the Way [followers of Jesus] to put them to death in Jerusalem. When Jesus selected Ananias to minister to Paul after his vision, He said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for my name’s sake.”  
After that time many attempts were made to kill Paul by the Jews (Acts 10:23), the Hellenists (Acts 10:29), and with Barnabas in Antioch where they were threatened, persecuted and expelled. II Corinthians 11 enumerates for us Paul’s many trials and troubles including being stoned, beaten, shipwrecked, lashed, and left for dead. There was sharp contention between him and Barnabas while on their missionary journeys that split up the pair, resulting in Paul and Silas teaming up to minister to the Gentiles. 

At the end of his life, while in prison, Paul addresses Timothy in his two epistles. As he encouraged the young pastor, Paul remained steadfast in his faith and mission, while acknowledging that all forsook him, save the Lord Jesus. Paul endured the constant pressure of a lifetime of trials, troubles, & tribulations , and yet he saw God’s purpose and sovereignty in all of it. Paul’s victory was this: “But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear” (II Timothy 4:17).
 
In the end, we come forth:  precious, valuable and exquisite – a true treasure of God, for His Glory!
 
A diamond must fall under the chisel in order to become a precious stone, and gold is never refined unless it remains in the fire.  
God never leaves the metal in the crucible longer than what is necessary for the burning away of the dross.  He will do the same on our behalf.“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord!” (Psalm 27:13-14)







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

Kill the Root Quickly - Bloom for God

As I headed out the door to church last Sunday, I sent up a quick prayer to the Lord in my thoughts, saying,  
"Jesus, help me to not have a root of bitterness towards my husband. Help me to let go of unmet expectations, disappointments, and awful feelings right now."

I know you might have struggled with the same thing.  We’re not unique.  There are many women living in a spiritually mismatched marriage that go to church - week in and week out alone.  We pull into the parking lot and sometimes just sit in the car – watching the other families heading into the building.  Other times we make our way into the sanctuary – scanning the crowd – looking for a place to settle in…alone.
You see – I have been attending church alone for quite some time now.  My husband has come on occasions like Christmas, Easter, and Mother’s Day.  He has attended some Sunday school socials with me and had brunch or dinner with the other couples in my class – but he isn’t really interested in church fellowship or the things of God.  I keep telling myself that one day it will all change.  He will actually verbalize a desire to go with me…  I won’t even have to ask him to come.
I’m well aware of the fact that we all have different life experiences with regards to church attendance and our childhoods.  My family was in the military.  We moved frequently and we did not attend church regularly.  I wasn’t interested in God until I was in my early 30’s with a small child of my own.  However, my husband grew up going to a religious school as a youngster, and attended church as part of his family’s tradition.  I personally don’t believe he ever really connected his heart with his actions.
When we married, neither of us entered a house of worship with any regularity or passion.  It wasn’t until a neighbor of mine invited me (with my young son) to attend church with her that I finally had my eyes “opened” to the True and Living God.  I was born again and a fire was lit within my heart for Jesus. That was 23 years ago.  Living in an unequally-yoked marriage for that length of time gives you greater perspective on what matters most in God’s eyes.
God’s Word tells us in Hebrews 12:14-15 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 roof of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled”.   Pursuing peace involves action on our part.  We must submit our emotions and reactions to Him and not manifest outward frustrations to our spouse.  King David’s wife Michal had a root of bitterness fed by jealousy (2 Samuel 20-22).  We must “…cast down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ…” (II Corinthians 10:5).
After spending time in our flower beds this past week – I observed how some of the weeds had shallow roots and others were deeper.  When I pulled at them – trying to dislodge the weed - many times I simply broke off the plant, leaving roots just below the surface.  I merely removed what I saw – but underneath the soil the plant still existed.  It would burst up through the dirt again in time. I really hadn’t taken care of the problem.
Many times a root of bitterness can develop when we simply try to remove what we perceive is the surface problem.  However, deep below are the true causes of those weeds:  anger, resentment, jealousy, pride, and many more.  Roots need to be eradicated swiftly and completely in order for the weed to disappear for good.  It often requires digging it up with a sharp claw or tool that will loosen the dirt around the roots.  

God’s Word acts as our tool to dislodge the weeds that root in our soul.  He lovingly loosens our emotions and pulls out sin-filled thoughts by His Spirit, as He weeds our garden and prepares us for heavenly fruit bearing.  

When I am conflicted and overwhelmed with unkind thoughts towards my husband, I ask the Father to visit my flower bed and inspect it for weeds.  I don’t want a root of bitterness to ruin my Christian witness or affect my relationship at home. 
I hate pulling weeds and I imagine God probably doesn’t really enjoy doing it either…




 
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

May - Memorial Day & Military Appreciation Month

In addition to Memorial Day, the month of May is National Military Appreciation Month.  2012 is the 14th Annual celebration of this recognized tradition of showing tangible appreciation for our military.

National Military Appreciation Month  includes Loyalty Day (1st), Military Spouse Appreciation Day (11th), VE Day (8th), Armed Forces Day (19th), and Memorial Day (30th).  This very important month honors, remembers, recognizes and appreciates all military personnel; those men and women who have served throughout our history and all who now serve in uniform and their families as well as those Americans who have given their lives in defense of our freedoms we all enjoy today.  It recognizes those on active duty in all branches of the services, the National Guard and Reserves plus retirees, veterans, and all of their families - well over 90 million Americans and more than 230 years of our nation’s history.  Let us celebrate them just as we celebrate the other important entities that make up this wonderful country of ours.
                 
This is my Dad, son & husband at our son's U.S. Marine Corps. commissioning services. My Dad was a U.S. Naval aviator and my husband is a retired U.S. Navy Chief.

National Military Appreciation Month started as a simple idea; to gather America around its military family to honor, remember, recognize and appreciate those who have served and those now serving and to know the history behind it all. This idea was then legislated twice to achieve greater national attention and recognition.
The first legislation was in the United States Senate in 1999 designating May as National Military Appreciation Month. With the support and sponsorship of Senator John McCain, (R-AZ) and Representative Duncan Hunter, (R-CA) of San Diego and over 50 veteran service organizations, this important and timely legislation tells our service members that their country has set aside an entire month to honor, remember and appreciate them. In April of 2004, more comprehensive legislation was passed by unanimous consent of both Houses of Congress, H. Con. Res. 328, that May is National Military Appreciation Month and urges the President to issue an annual proclamation calling on the American people to recognize this special month of May through appropriate ceremonies and events. 
Another wonderful website and resource for military families is the National Military Family Association
The National Military Family Association is an organization with strong grassroots support balanced with professionalism that makes us a leader in the field. Not only do we support military families – we are military families. Spouses, parents, and family members make up our staff and board positions. We speak up on behalf of military families and empower husbands, wives, and children to understand and access their benefits. Based on what we hear from our members, we meet the needs of service members and their families with insightful recommendations, innovative programs, and grassroots efforts to better the quality of life for military families.
In 1969, the National Military Family Association was founded by a handful of military wives who wanted to make sure their widowed friends were properly taken care of. Two short years later, the Survivor Benefit Plan became law, and the Association has been hard at work ever since. A small but determined group of military wives around a kitchen table has expanded into a strong force of men and women of all ranks and Services and their wives, husbands, children, and parents.
A few other websites to check out are:
 
http://www.soldiersangels.org                      http://www.christianmilitarywives.com 
http://www.wivesoffaith.org 
http://weservetoo.com


Memorial Day , originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service.
Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 - 363) to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays), though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead.

 My husband and I have visited the Arlington National Cemetery, World War II and Vietnam Memorials in Washington, DC, and the Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii.  Words cannot convey the solemn mood and deep heartfelt respect the public displayed at these national treasures. It was such a moving experience to walk near the graves of so many fallen heroes and read the names of the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country's freedoms.


To date, over 1800 U.S. troops have died in Afghanistan and over 4000 U.S. troops died during the Iraq War.  Take time this weekend to pray for the families of those who have fallen.  Theirs is a sacrifice and pain that never diminishes with time.  Pull out the old photo albums and recall with pride your family members and their service to our country.  


Share with me some of the stories of your loved ones who have served our great Nation with pride.












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.  Visithttp://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com