Deborah L. McCarragher's Blog, page 4

Amazing love... How can it be? A Resurrection Gift...

And can it be that I should gain
An interest in the Savior's blood?
Died He for me, who caused His pain?
For me, who Him to death pursued?

   Amazing love! how can it be
   That Thou, my Lord, shouldst die for me?
                      [Charles Wesley  1780]

She was freed from seven devils by the power of Jesus, and she joined the women who accompanied the disciples. She was from Magdala, on the Southwest coast of the Sea of Galilee. 

She could not comprehend how this Prophet whom the disciples called "The Son of God" would show her such unmerited kindness and mercy.  How could she ever repay Him?

She remembered how Simon Peter spoke of a parable that Jesus taught of two debtors, saying, "There was a certain creditor who had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing with which to repay, he freely forgave them both. Tell Me, therefore, which of them will love him more?"  Simon answered Him and said, "I suppose the one whom he forgave more."  And Jesus said to him, "You have rightly judged."  

Jesus spoke this parable of the women who had anointed His feet with a costly flask of fragrant oil during dinner in a Pharisee's house. He continued the parable, saying to Simon and the others, "Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much.  But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little."

She watched as the Lord and His disciples traveled throughout Galilee and the surrounding area performing miracles and ministering to the masses.  She observed firsthand how the crowds grew in anticipation of a conquering King. Then they began to fall away when their expectations did not materialize.  

Who was this Jesus Who had commanded the demons to flee and the Spirit of God to come into her heart? 

Mary recalled that He often withdrew privately to pray to His Father.  She reminisced how He taught with authority and wisdom, confounding the lawyers and Pharisees.  He had preached to all who would listen, often late into the day. She and the others frequently heard the parables Jesus shared as He instructed the people in the ways of righteousness and Kingdom living.

Then she relived the horrors of the days leading up to His crucifixion with the criminals. She recalled the humiliation and pain, and the gore that surrounded His death. Her tears and those of His mother Mary, as well as the other women who witnessed the Roman punishment, had been bitter and frequent since that fateful day.  

When Joseph of Arimathea and Nichodemus secured His body from Pilate, they took the strips of linen with the spices, as was the custom of the Jews, and prepared Him for burial.  Mary also went with the wife of Clopas (Mary) and Salome the mother of James and John with additional spices to the tomb to pay homage to the slain Son of God..

On the Sabbath - the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning while it was still dark. As she stood there she observed that the stone had been taken away. She ran and found Simon Peter and John - crying and pleading with them - asking them where her Lord had been taken.  They were both stunned ran to the tomb. John arrived at and peered into the tomb first. But Peter quickly followed and went inside the tomb to discover the linen cloths and handkerchief lying on the stone.



Mary recalled the pain in her heart as she longed to see her Savior once again. She stood outside by the empty tomb in disbelief. She recalled the encounter with the two heavenly messengers clothed in white as they sat - one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had laid. They asked her why she was weeping, and Mary said to them, "Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him."

She heard Jesus say to her, "Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?"  And then she said to Him, supposing Him to be the gardener, "Sir, if You have carried Him away, tell me where You have laid Him, and I will take Him away."

Mary then grinned as she recalled her response to His calling out her name, "Mary!"  She surprised herself at her quick heartfelt shout of, "Rabboni!". 

Yes - Mary's heart was filled with gratitude and amazement as she gazed into heaven while Jesus  ascended to His Father. That was a day she would never forget...

(Scripture references:  Luke 7:40-47; John 19:38-42; John 20:1-18)
What about you?  As we celebrate Resurrection Sunday - what is your response to the Risen Lord?  Are you also amazed at His gracious love and mercy?  Do you gaze heavenward in anticipation of His return?











Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was 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

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

All About Purim - Lessons Learned from Esther

The Feast of Purim is celebrated by the Jewish people annually in remembrance of Esther. 

The Book of Esther is the last of the historical books written in the Old Testament.  The book was likely written about 400 B.C.  The author is unknown - but it is evident from the details within the text that he was well acquainted with Persian court life. The author might have been a young protege of Mordecai.

The name of this feast, Purim, is from the Persian word for lot: pur which refers to how Haman cast lot to decide on the date of the mass execution as referred to in Esther 3.

Esther was a Jewish orphan maiden in the city of Shushan. Esther's Hebrew name was Hadassah, which means "Myrtle". She and her cousin Mordecai were Jews who were carried captive from Jerusalem, and were now living in Persia under the rule of King Ahasuerus. Mordecai was her cousin and raised her as his own daughter. He was a minor official in the King's palace.

Through a series of events which included the King divorcing his wife Queen Vashti, a search was conducted to replace her. All the beautiful young maidens were summoned to the palace and presented to King Ahasuerus. Whomever he was pleased with would become the new queen.

When the King's chief minister Haman learned that Mordecai would not pay homage to him as was the custom, he convinced King Ahasuerus to issue a decree that would destroy all the Jewish people. Once consent was obtained the decree was written and publicized throughout the empire and a date was set through the casting of lots (pur).  Mordecai then sent word to Esther that she must plead for mercy on behalf of her kindred before the all powerful King.

The book of Esther records how God used a young Jewish girl  to save His people from annihilation.


Here are 3 lessons we can learn from Esther...


1.    Esther had no control over her life's plans and direction -

Like many Hebrew children, Esther (Hadassah) was left an orphan following the forced exodus from Jerusalem some 400 years before Christ. She and her cousin Mordecai were in Shushan when Queen Vashti was banished from the palace at Susa. The circumstances surrounding the collection and grooming of young virgins for the King's selection was beyond her control. Her submission to the process and favor with the custodian of the women were God ordained. Esther underwent months of beauty preparations and instruction prior to her required visit to the King's palace. She would not go in to the King again until she was personally requested by name.  Her fate was not in her own hands.


2.    Esther prepared for the worst, and hoped for the best -
When the turn came for her to go in to the King, she relied solely on the counsel of Hegai the King's eunuch, as he had favored her above all the others. With his advice she entered with nothing more than herself. The King was smitten and loved her more than all the others. She obtained grace and favor as she captured his heart. During this time she concealed her background and did not reveal her kindred and her people to the King as Mordecai had charged her.  Her cousin had informed her of a plot to kill the King, and after hanging the offenders, the incident was recorded in the book of the chronicles in the presence of the King.

When Mordecai learned of the plot to destroy God's people through the wicked plans of Haman, he lamented and put on sackcloth and ashes, and cried out bitterly in the midst of the city. When Esther's maids and eunuchs told her about Mordecai she was devastated. Her attendant approached Mordecai, who in turn gave him a copy of the written decree for their destruction. The Queen had a plan... but it relied solely on the King's grace. She must risk death in order to approach the King to ask for mercy on behalf of her people. 


3.    Esther allowed God's plan to unfold on His timetable -
Courage is something that comes from within. Mordecai plainly told her that she could either rise to the occasion or let someone else approach the King and forgo her destiny. Her wise plan was to have the Jews in the city fast for her for 3 days and nights in preparation for her visit to King Ahasuerus. Without being summoned - she risked death if he did not extend his scepter to her.
After she slipped into her royal robes, she cautiously approached the King's house and stood in the courtyard until he saw her and motioned for her to come close. As she found favor in his sight, she touched the tip of his scepter and he inquired what she would ask of him - up to half of his kingdom. She delayed her true request by asking for Haman to join the King and herself in a banquet to honor them. This was repeated again by divine design.
In the meantime Haman plodded ahead to build gallows from which to hang Mordecai whom he loathed. As Haman's pride rose - so did his eventual demise. Pride goes before destruction (Proverbs 16:18). 
By allowing God to move in the background, and through a restless night in which the King read of the incident in which his life was spared by Mordecai's deeds, Haman was indicted and found guilty of pandering to the Queen in a dishonorable and inappropriate way. The King's wrath demanded he be hung from the very gallows he built for Mordecai, and the decree for the Jews destruction was counter signed and enacted. The Jews eventually rose up under Esther & Mordecai's direction and defeated those who had relished in their downfall and ruin.
The Book of Esther reveals how God can promote someone who is venerable and innocent to a position of honor and authority. Much like Joseph's life - Esther was used by God to preserve His people from Satan's evil plans for the destruction of the Jewish nation.
God can take  your circumstances  and orchestrate an ending that is just as dramatic and life-saving as He did for Esther... He is no respecter of persons and He will use your life's scenario to bless you and bring glory to Himself.


For more information about PURIM and how it is celebrated in the Jewish culture now visit Purim 101








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
If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

A Valentine for Eternity

As women,  Valentine’s Day  is an opportunity to take the extra steps to make sure that your husband, boyfriend, Dad, son, or any other important man in your life is made to feel very special. We are givers by nature, and we put much thought and energy into doing just the right things to show our love for them.

Concerning your husband - there is always the traditional candy, heart-felt greeting card, and favorite meal to appease them. But sometimes we just need to do more. If you are craft prone, you can create something unique for their office or man-cave. You might get them a gift card to their favorite “big-boys toy store” or let them know you’re taking them out for dinner! You can offer to go to a movie of their choosing, or buy them a half-hour massage at the local spa. The choices are endless.
All those things are great – but do you know what I bet they would really like? Okay, we already know what “we think they want”, but that’s not all that is on their mind.   I really believe they would like a straight-from-the-heart acknowledgement of how glad you are that you married them to begin with!  Give them a “look in the eye” honest thank-you for all that you’ve been through together. Men desire our respect and love. Tell them that you’d marry them all over again – that they are just what God designed for you!  I Corinthians 13 is deemed the "love" chapter and is often quoted in weddings. Here is a post I did titled: Love Isn't Just for Valentine's Day

Ephesians 5 commands us to  walk in love towards one another . The Apostle Paul is teaching on submitting to one another in the fear of God (verse 21). Husbands are admonished to love their wives just as Christ loved the church. The great mystery Paul talks about not only has to do with the “leaving and cleaving” in a physical holy union between and man and woman, but also of Christ and His Church. We leave the world and cleave unto Him. We forsake all others for our heavenly Husband. We are His alone. Just as Israel played the harlot and was unfaithful to God, we too can become “unfaithful” in our marriage concerning our allegiance. Our earthly husband is our gift from above –  our completer, not our competitor. God wants our focus to be on our spouse and our marriage. That is our highest calling.

Paul’s last point in Ephesians 5 is, “Let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.” The point of it is this: women generally have no problem “loving” – but they often have difficulty “respecting” their husband. Honor and respect goes a long way in forging a lasting, healthy and biblical relationship. This applies whether you are both Christians, or if you are unequally-yoked in your marriage. God wills that the wife respect her husband. Here is my post on this touchy subject: Respect: Who Needs It? (Part 1)

Peter lays out God’s perfect plan of submission with regards to women in marriage. I Peter 3 states, “Likewise you wives, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear [respect]."  Trusting God and His character is the key to showing respect to your spouse, even when it’s undeserved. God will honor your heart and motive. I wrote a blog post on Biblical submission here: Oh No - Not the "S" Word

On a personal note – do I always do everything just right? No way, not by any stretch of the imagination. Do my husband and I have ups and downs in our 36 year marriage? You bet! However, I learned early on in my Christian walk to show respect to my husband, even when I felt he didn’t deserve it. I don’t chide him in public, or belittle him in front of others. Just as a couple walking along the beach, love and respect go hand in hand.


When I first met my husband, he had a little garden area off of his patio at his apartment. He grew a variety of roses varying in color and size. I have always loved roses. That first day we met he presented me with a lovely single dark red rose. Throughout the years, I have received red roses on special occasions (one being the birth of our son), but more often than not – I have yearly received beautiful cards for  Valentine’s Day  displaying red roses on it.

What has touched my heart more than anything else over the years, has been a consistent hand-written note in the card saying that he loved me, and thanking God for me! This gesture of love comes from a man who has yet to make Jesus Christ the Lord of his life. I’m thankful that he sees the  heart of God  in me. How very humbling…  To God be all the Glory!


    A Little History About Valentine’s Day -
Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages (written Valentines didn't begin to appear until after 1400), and the oldest known Valentine card is on display at the British Museum. The first commercial Valentine's Day greeting cards produced in the U.S. were created in the 1840s by Esther A. Howland.











Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was 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
If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Time for Change - New Year, New YOU

There’s a familiar saying we’ll hear over and over again in the next week:  “I’m making a New Year’s resolution to …”
Some of the more popular Top 10 Resolutions that we make are:


   ~ Spend more time with family and friends
 ~ Commit to a new diet and eating choices~ Give more to charity – time and money~ Begin a new fitness routine~ Learn something new~ Get out of debt~ Get organized


The best time to start a new habit is NOW!

I just love the New Year and what opportunities it brings. I say,  “Time for a change - change is good!"

Isaiah 43:18-19 says this: “Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”

It's never too late to start over...

The enemy wants to you think that where you've been and what you've done dictates where you're going. But that is "flawed thinking"! God's grace enables us to begin again. It dares us to take a chance on something new and exciting.

As Christians, we are new creatures in Christ. We have a  new  beginning. We can establish new habits that are godly and useful. We can find  new  inspiration and a fresh  new  revelation as we read and study God’s Word. Who doesn’t like a clean slate – a new chance to have a "do over"!

There are four steps to accomplishment: First, plan purposefully; second, prepare prayerfully; third, proceed positively; and fourth, pursue persistently.  (Anonymous)


The Apostle Paul instructs us to know Christ in a  new  intimate way. That kind of intimacy caused him to “press on and lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me” (Philippians 3:10-12). Through God's Word we have a revelation that brings a fresh, spiritual comprehension, which in turn acts as the catalyst to enable us to live out our Christianity with boldness and faith.

Our confidence cannot be in our flesh, but in the power of God. Look to Him with the expectation of what He can do in us and through us. As Paul states in verse 13-14, “but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow.   -Ronald E. Osborn

In the book of Revelation, John tells us that those worshipping before the throne of the Lamb will sing a  new  song. In his vision he gazed upon a  new  heaven and a  new  earth.

What a great lesson for the New Year! We have  “New Life”  resolutions! Look forward, not backwards. Keep your eye on Jesus and the heavenly goal. Pattern your  new  ideas and habits on what the Word teaches. Model yourself after your Maker and Master. Fix your gaze upon Jesus…He is all you need to walk in the  newness  of life.

The vision to see, the faith to believe, and the will to do will take you anywhere you want to go... (Anonymous)


Frances Ridley Havergal wrote the hymn Another Year Is Dawning in 1860 as a celebration of New Year’s Eve and looking forward in faith to God’s blessings. What a beautiful tribute to what a new year can hold in store for us…

Another Year Is Dawning
Another year is dawning:Dear Father, let it be,In working or in waiting,Another year with Thee;Another year of progress,Another year of praise,Another year of provingThy presence all the days.
 Another year of merciesOf faithfulness and grace;Another year of gladnessIn the shining of Thy face;Another year of leaningUpon Thy loving breast;Another year of trusting,Of quiet, happy rest.
Another year of service,Of witness for Thy love;Another year of trainingFor holier work above.Another year is dawning:Dear Father, let it be,On earth or else in heaven,Another year for Thee.
Here’s to a  new  year full of hope and anticipation in what God has in store for us!
The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace. (Numbers 6:24-26)






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
If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

The Christmas Gift

“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (II Corinthians 9:15)

Christmas  isn’t just about the gifts, or is it?  We all know it’s better to give than to receive. Sometimes we spend months looking for just the right gift to give. We often take the time to wrap it with colorful paper, ribbons and bows. Presentation is everything! Once in a while we’ll try to get the recipient to “guess” what’s inside. There’s just something about gift giving that can be so exhilarating!

Matthew Chapter 2 tells us, “When they [Magi] had come into the house they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” These were precious gifts fit for royalty, which had been transported for hundreds of miles. The wise men had followed a bright star which had originated in the East, and had led them to the specific dwelling place of the  Christ Child .

One of my favorite passages of scripture is in the 4th Chapter of John. Jesus had a Divine appointment with a woman in Samaria. His disciples had gone into town to purchase food and provisions. While they were gone, Jesus remained by Jacob’s well, weary from the journey. The woman came out at noonday to fetch water because she was an outcast in the community. As she drew the water, Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink”, to which she replied that Jews don’t normally have social contact with Samaritans. Verse 10 is the best part! Jesus said to her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.” Jesus goes on to explain in verse 14 (after her rant about Abraham and their shared heritage) “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, “but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst…” 

Christ had extended her the favor of grace. Verse 15 tells us she wanted that gift right then and there! She was tired of her old life and knew He had something real to offer. She basically said, “Show me where to sign-up! I’m ready!” Romans 6:23 tells us, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” The woman at the well knew she was in sin and would face her Maker. God’s Righteousness demands a payment for sin. Jesus shared the good news with her that  God’s Gift  was indeed standing before her. He offered her eternal life in exchange for eternal separation from God. God in the flesh offered her the greatest token of His love.
Jesus meets us right where we are   – ready to give us The Gift of God.  Of course, it’s available anytime – not just at Christmas! James 1:17 says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” No one knows how to give gifts like Our Heavenly Father!  Matthew 7:11 states, “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, now much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who as Him!”


Your greatest gift is what Jesus has already prepared for you… He is just waiting for you to accept it!   God sent  Jesus  in the flesh  -  Emmanuel  - “God with us” - 2000+ years ago.  

Make this your best Christmas ever!
To view a presentation by the  Billy Graham Evangelical Assoc.  on how to become a Christian, please visit this link: http://bit.ly/hHxb7z   (Steps to Peace with God)








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

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Thanksgiving is a way of life for the Christian

Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him (Psalm 34:8).

During this Thanksgiving season - what are you most thankful for? Is it something to do with your family, your workplace, or maybe your place of worship? Do you express thanksgiving for big things as well as the little things?  Do you vocalize what you are thankful for to your family, friends and most importantly, to God Himself?

As Christians, we are to develop and display a grateful heart.

We are told in Psalm 100:4 “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.”

Thanksgiving  is likely based on the traditional “first thanksgiving” harvest meal shared in 1621 at the Plymouth Colony Plantation by the Pilgrims and a group of Native Americans.

The first Thanksgiving feast lasted three days providing enough food for 53 pilgrims and 90 Native Americans. The feast consisted of fowl, venison, fish, lobster, clams, berries, fruit, pumpkin, and squash. William Bradford noted that, "besides waterfowl, there was great store of wild turkeys, of which they took many”, probably gave rise to the American tradition of eating turkey at Thanksgiving.”


Thanksgiving is generally observed on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States. This holiday provides a valuable opportunity for the strengthening of family bonds, expressions of gratitude, and a reminder of God’s rich blessings.

As Christians, we acknowledge God’s goodness and provision in our expression of Thanksgiving. 

God’s Word implores us to give thanks to Him. Both Old and New Testament books of the Bible encourage us to have an attitude of gratitude. Psalm 50:14 tells us to, “Offer to God thanksgiving.”  Psalm 95:2 says, “Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving...”  In Philippians 4:6 the Apostle Paul declares, “…in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” 

One of my favorite psalms is 136.  It begins with verses 1-3 - thanking God for His Goodness.  "Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. Oh, give thanks to the God of gods! For His mercy endures forever.  Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords! For His mercy endures forever."  So much we have to be thankful for!  
Thank Jesus for your salvation.  If we had nothing else to be thankful for, that would be sufficient!

Oh, how we thank Him for rescuing us from certain destruction and eternal doom!  In II Corinthians 9:15 Paul says this, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” 
This Thanksgiving, make it a priority to focus on faith, family, and giving.  The blessing we receive from meeting the needs of someone else is huge.  Give to your local shelter, or volunteer your time.  Do something different as a family, and make a memory by serving others in your community.  Help distribute gift baskets at church to the needy, or invite a co-worker who doesn't have immediate family nearby for a home-cooked meal and fellowship.  

Please enjoy one of the greatest praise songs ever sung -
Give Thanks With a Grateful Heart 














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 

Super Highway or Back Roads? Salvation is a choice...

Are you still waiting for a particular family member to make a decision to follow Christ? They might even say they are a Christian - but their life's actions don't back up that assertion. Many profess their religious preferences and convictions, but a true conversion will be evident by their lifestyle (fruit).

Embracing the true gospel and its doctrines is difficult. Jesus Himself had this to say about two ways of life:  "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way, which leads to life, and there are few who find it." (Matthew 7:13-14)

Becoming a Christian is an individual choice . It is not predicated on your family background, your church attendance, or your moral values. It is based solely on faith in the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ as a substitute for you at Calvary. He bore our sins so we could become sinless. It is a belief and a personal confession of His saving grace and mercy extended to you as a sinner by a loving God who pursues us.

There is a super highway that is packed with many lanes of traffic - all headed in the wrong direction. The pace is fast and furious. There is congestion and noise and mass confusion. The world is on the broad road to destruction and death. Eternity for them is pure hell - literally...

There is also a road less traveled. It is like a picturesque back country road - meandering through the hills and valleys of life. It is a narrow road that leads to life and godliness. It is often a difficult and lonely journey. Eternity for the true believer will be a never ending communion with the God of creation.



In the last days there will be many in the "church" who will fall away from the faith (apostasy). There are countless false believers and those who would confuse and mislead even the elect. Our loved ones are often lulled by the world and its relentless tug-o-war on their hearts and minds. Praying scripture is one of the most effective ways to petition God on their behalf. This passage is a favorite of mine:  "I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and His incomparably great power for us who believe..."(Ephesians 1:17-19 NIV)

There should be a time in your life where you can clearly point to  an event  or a private moment that changed you forever:   your genuine conversion experience with the Lord Jesus Christ.
No doubt there will be many in heaven which we never thought would be there. Certainly there will not be people in heaven that we were sure would be there. The point is Scripture clearly teaches there are "few" who find the narrow gate to heaven. It is a road less traveled and it is difficult.

The good news is that God invites us to join Him via the gospel message - declaring His love sent down from heaven, that we might ask Jesus Christ to save us and sanctify us by His redeeming work.

For those who live in an unequally-yoked marriage, faith in God's ability to reach them is crucial. Pray for them and remember that their decision to follow Christ is just that: a personal choice. We do not answer for their actions or their failure to act on His invitation. Free will to reject His offer is not God's perfect will - but it is in His permissive will. 

There will be evidence of a true conversion for a believer when they become part of God's family. You cannot be a true disciple of Jesus Christ without loving His people, His Word, and His ways.

A Christian is a “follower and disciple of Christ”.   The one who keeps His commandments and does His will is a true Christian  (John 14:15). 


Here are two past posts that talk about true conversion by way of the narrow path:
                         It's Not About Religion                                A Bona Fide Convert









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
If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Do you relate to DORY? I hope so...

Disney - Pixar
I must admit that I enjoy many Disney movies made for children. They often have a fun and quirky array of characters, and they generally present  a great moral lesson  within their story line.


Take the blockbuster Finding Nemo.   A clown fish (Marlin) and his son Nemo are separated after his son strays into the Great Barrier Reef. He is abducted by a boat and taken to Sydney Harbor where he ends up in a dentist's aquarium.

Marlin frantically looks for his son amid the vast ocean and teams up with Dory, a blue tang who suffers from short term memory loss. Together they search for Nemo as they encounter various dangers, sea creatures and unforeseen delays. Dory wants to help - but her constant memory loss diverts her attention to everything except her ongoing search and rescue mission to find Nemo. Marlin refuses to give up even though the task at hand seems hopeless. Father and son will be together again! With help from Dory and many others along the way, Marlin is finally reunited with his son.

I often joke about having "short term memory loss" like Dory - but that might be a good thing! In your unequally-yoked marriage you will have days where forgiveness is key;  no, it is absolutely necessary! Your Christian witness is on the line. You don't want to harbor resentment when your spouse doesn't meet a need, or responds in a gruff way to your request, or simply doesn't share that special spiritual connection with you.

Paul's passage in I Corinthians 13:4-8 tells us that love has a responsibility to the other person. It enumerates several qualities that we as Christians should exhibit in our marriage - even to an unbeliever. This post I wrote breaks it all down:    True Definition of Love
Another sticking point in your spiritually mismatched marriage is self-control. A quick temper can derail any chance of a civil resolution to your dilemma. Instead, if you let go of your right to revenge, criticism, and backlash - you can learn to turn a deaf ear to the enemy when you are tempted to answer in anger. Remember, Ephesians 5:33 tells us that the wife should respect her husband. That means your speech, body language and attitude. Here is a past post I wrote about anger that may be helpful:     Anger Management - God's Way




I often remind myself to take a deep breath and bite my tongue if I need to before I respond to something negative. We all can take offense to someone's actions or words. What we need to do is to extend grace to our partner and give our frustrations over to God.

I Peter 3:1-4 lays out what a Godly portrait of submission should look like. Wives can be a greater influence for their unsaved spouses by being whom God created them to be. Conduct is the key to exhibiting Christ-like qualities to your spouse. Are we perfect? No - far from it. However, God will give you the grace and quiet strength that is necessary to live for Him - even in an unequally-yoked marriage.  You can read my past post on submission here:   Oh No - Not the "S" Word !


Below is an excerpt from my book  MISSION POSSIBLE - Chapter 1  You've Embraced Christ - Now What? 

     The enemy will mercilessly bombard you with thoughts, feelings, emotions and physical disdain for your mate. You must take every thought captive (II Corinthians 10:5) and stop looking at your mate as the enemy. Don't let his actions and words provoke you into disobedience.

     Paul writes in Ephesians 4:29, "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for building up, that it may impart grace to the hearers."  Matthew 18:9 states, "and if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you."  So it goes with your tongue.

     Stop committing spiritual murder against your mate! Bite it off and cast it away! Don't sin by grieving God as you curse the very person God wills to join you to, as ONE!

Copyright  © Deborah McCarragher and God Mission Possible, 2010-2017 

Now back to the whole matter of  "what are you going to do when push comes to shove?"  My best advice is to be like Dory...  Make sure you have short-term memory loss.  Don't hold a grudge. Forgive quickly and fully. Keep your focus on what God would have you do to keep your marriage in balance and pleasing to Him. 











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

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

The ABIGAIL SYNDROME - What not to do

Do you feel that if you could just "dump" your husband, everything would be okay?

No - really... Being unequally yoked in marriage is difficult most days and near impossible other days. Is he the real reason you can't serve God how you'd like to? Suppose you could just go back in time and redo the whole marriage thing. I'm talking about  after  you became a Christian.  There are many of us that came to faith in Jesus Christ later on in our marriage . If we were honest, many of us would say "YES" to the redo, but that would be erroneous and sinful wouldn't it?

When I became a Christian at 33 yrs. old, I had already been married for seven years. As time went by I began to grow more and more unsettled. I was a new creature in Christ. I had new interests and desires. But God stopped my flawed thinking and convicted me of what I was plotting.  I believe God told me I would get a new husband with the same man!

“For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife…For how do you know,  O wife,  whether you will save your husband?” (I Corinthians 7: 14, 16)

And now a little background history on Abigail and David:

After King David had commanded several successful military campaigns, he mercifully spared King Saul’s life in a cave in the region of En Gedi. David then journeyed into the wilderness of Paran following Samuel’s death and burial. Samuel had, under God’s direction, chosen and anointed David as the future King of Israel.
By this time David had already taken Saul’s daughter Michal as his wife; a gift from the King to David for a crushing defeat of the Philistines in exchange for his bride’s dowry, as vengeance on the King’s enemies. David and his men were in the wilderness when he heard that a man in Carmel named Nabel, whose sheep were being sheared, might have provisions for him and his young warriors (I Samuel 21-24).



Here is an excerpt from  MISSION POSSIBLE -  Chapter 4 "The Abigail Syndrome".   Mission Possible is a book for women who are unequally-yoked in marriage. Using God's Word, it offers the reader hope and encouragement, while applying Biblical truths.
The traditional story of  Abigail  in I Samuel 25 is a familiar one.  Abigail  was married to Nabal, a man of means who treated her and everyone else like dirt. Though Nabal was descended from Caleb, he shared none of his virtues. When King David heard that her husband Nabal reviled his men, he was ready to kill him and his household.  Abigail  went out to meet David with humility and gifts. David highly praised  Abigail’s  courage and advice. Nabal soon died upon hearing what took place after his drunken binge.  Abigail  became David’s wife when he proposed after learning of Nabal’s fate. Abigail would now reside with the King in a “fairy tale” ending.

Not so fast… Don’t be “caught up” in the  Abigail syndrome . I believe God has a New Testament application for those of us who stand in the gap for our unbelieving husbands. Let’s look at what this passage does not represent:

We don’t pray that our husbands will “drop dead” so we can marry a believer as that would not be in God’s perfect will for us. Neither do we hope he’ll die from a heart attack to “pay him back” for his evil ways. God has a better plan. I believe this would be the God honoring scenario for the wife who believes for her husband’s salvation.

Abigail  was a woman of good understanding. (I Samuel 25:3). Godly wisdom and understanding promote knowing God’s will. Isaiah 11:2 is a picture of the Holy Spirit for us today: “The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon [us], the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.” We must be in tune with what God would have us do with regards to our mate. Daily prayer and being in God’sWord helps us to know God’s will.

Interestingly, when David sent his men to ask favor and provision from Nabal, he was indifferent and inquired: “Who is David, and who is the son of Jesse?…Shall I then take my bread and my water and my meat … and give it to men when I do not know where they are from?” (I Samuel 25:10-11). Likewise, your husband, just as Nabal, doesn’t know the King yet.

Often times it is difficult to tithe, attend every church service, or be at every Bible study or function because your husband doesn’t see a need for you to participate or share you with God. Be patient. He must see your commitment and desire to be with God’s people and in God’s presence.

Nabal was a self-made man who was very prideful and greedy. Reading Jesus’ parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-20, we see similarities. Nabal was not thankful for anything, nor recognized God’s hand of provision at all. Your husband may be “rich and full of worldly things.” His equating “good things & provision” to GOD are foreign. Only GOD can change his heart and priorities as you pray for his spiritual enlightenment (Ephesians 1:18). Pray for God to woo him by His Spirit into a curiosity and awareness of the things of God.

Unlike King David who planned to wipe out Nabal’s lineage, God has compassion and mercy on our spouses. He is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (II Peter 3:9). God wills that your spouse join you in “holy union.” The apostle Paul states in I Corinthians 7:14, 16 “for the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife …for how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband?”

When  Abigail  heard what Nabal had done, she quickly prepared an offering for King David. Our offering brought to our King is a humble heart, a willing & submissive spirit, and unwavering obedience. We intercede on our husband’s behalf by meeting the King of Kings.

King David praised  Abigail  for her good sense and devotion: “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who sent you this day to meet me! And blessed is your advice and blessed are you , because you have kept me this day from coming to bloodshed… unless you had hastened and come to meet me, surely by morning light no males would have been left to Nabal” (I Samuel 25:32-34). David would have wiped out Nabal’s name but it was God’s desire to “promote a Godly lineage.”  Abigail’s  actions and attitude spared Nabal but Nabal didn’t recognize her sacrifice. Our sacrifice on our spouse’s behalf is unwavering faith and persistent prayers offered up to the Throne of Grace. GOD always takes notice of devotion!

Copyright © Deborah McCarragher and God Mission Possible, 2009-2017. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this Blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Deborah McCarragher and/or God Mission Possible with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. All guest content remains the property of the appropriate author - any reproduction is strictly prohibited without their prior written approval.



How would God have you treat your spouse? What would He have you do to honor your vows before God - even though your husband isn't a Christian yet?  Share with me your experiences in marriage that might mirror that of Abigail's petition before the king.









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
If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

4 Wedding Warnings We Shouldn't Ignore

Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.  (Philippians 2:1-4)



Our Marriages are the testing ground for God to win us to himself. Our marriages are basic training for the one Marriage that will not disappoint.
~ Dan Allender & Tremper Longhman III


Christianity has long called us to this truth: Marriage must be about more than itself because love that does not serve life will die.
~ Evelyn & James Whitehead


How great, then, is the constraint in marriage, which subjects even the stronger to the other; for by mutual constraint each is bound to serve. Nor if one wishes to refrain can he withdraw his neck from the yoke, for he is subject to the [desires] of the other... You see how plainly the servitude of marriage is defined.
~ Ambrose


Marriage is hard work.

It requires humility and sacrifice. It calls us to a higher place of denial and selfless service. The Apostle Paul wrote his eloquent passage on "love" in I Corinthians 13:4-8 which is often recited during wedding ceremonies. He also addresses marriage in Ephesians 5:22-33.

Marriage takes teamwork.  It requires a "give & take" attitude and often calls for setting aside your views and wishes for those of your mate. Many couples simply don't take time to reflect sufficiently on the tremendous commitment they are undertaking in marriage.

Let's take this scenario as an example:  

Someone you know is getting married.  You saw the day coming and you are happy for them. Months of preparation have gone into their impending nuptials. The wedding date is quickly approaching - but you begin to see warning signs of trouble ahead. Maybe they are not made for each other after all.

How would you confront your friend? Would you tell them you were concerned that their decision to marry might be the wrong one? Could you honestly share your heart with them and plead for them to reconsider?

Spiritually speaking , as Christians, we have a wedding date in the future with our Groom [Jesus Christ]. Do we take seriously the pledge to our future husband? Do we contemplate life with our beloved? Are we keeping ourselves pure for Him only?





Here are four wedding warnings in the spiritual realm we shouldn't ignore:

1.  We have little or no preparation -  Ephesians 5:26 tells us that Jesus cleanses us with the washing of water by the word [of God]. Time spent in the holy Scriptures allows the Spirit to test our hearts and search our minds - conforming us to His standards and not the world's. Our outward appearance as a Christian and primping for the public eye is useless if we do not concern ourselves with our inner beauty and purity.


2.  We have a wandering eye -  Our God is a jealous God. We are the apple of His eye (Zechariah 2:8). When we yearn and lust after the world, we demonstrate our wandering heart. God repeatedly chastised the nation of Israel for playing the harlot. Hosea 2:19-20 tells us that God betroths us to Himself forever.  Longing for yesteryear or days gone by with affection is dangerous and deadly. Every believer in Jesus Christ needs to have "eyes for Him only".


3.  We don't take it seriously -  How often do we "play games" with our spiritual heritage. Well meaning rituals, programs, even service to God can become mechanical and habitual. Our focus on the Lord Jesus must be heartfelt and genuine. Our lame attempt at sincere devotion is evident when we dismiss meaningful engagement with other believers or avoid church wide commitment. Brides look forward to their wedding.


4.   We lack fervent anticipation -  Longing for our Lord Jesus is key to our heart's desire to be with Him for all eternity.  Matthew 25:1-13 says that the virgins that were waiting for the bridegroom were a divided lot. Half of them were wise and half of them were foolish.  The wise virgins had the oil they needed for their lamps when he came unexpectedly. The Apostle Paul also expressed great joy in anticipating Christ's return in I Thessalonians 2:19 and I Thessalonians 4:16-17. True love waits with a longing that is easily recognizable.


Marriage is a lifetime commitment. That means it is permanent. God intended that a man and a women would be partners for their entire natural life. Christ and His church is the heavenly portrait of what our marriage on earth should be patterned after. It is also a glimpse of our relationship with Him for eternity as we are the bride of Christ.

May and June are traditional wedding months for many couples. Take some personal time to reflect on your commitment to a Groom who loves you with an everlasting love...


Here are two of my "favorite posts" on Marriage and Weddings

                                                              Love and Marriage                    

If you follow Christ










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
If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.