Second Time Around (The Lewis Legacy Series, #2)

by JoAnn Durgin

“What I’m trying to tell you is that God doesn’t keep track—doesn’t keep score—of all the good and bad, and the right and wrong like we do. He just is. He knows everything that’s gonna happen to us. He’s in control even though we’re bull-headed and think we’re the ones pullin’ the reins.”

“Trust in Him, and He’ll give you what you need, when you need it. Not always what we think we need, but what we need to bring us back to Him, to the truth He wants us to learn.”

raised a prayer, at least his third that hour. “Lord, keep my thoughts pure. Help me not to be so selfish.

“Here’s the thing: God tells us He won’t give us anything more than we can handle. Lately, I’m wondering if I’m up to the challenge. I feel . . .” His words trailed as he stopped. “You feel . . . ?” The psychologist had the patience of Job, unlike his patient. He waited as Marc grappled for the right words. “I feel . . . cheated.”

“I’m sure you’re stronger than you give yourself credit for,” Pastor Ron advised. “Keep your eyes on Him, and God will never tempt you beyond what you can bear.

“To be honest, what the Lord wants me to learn from this experience is something I might not ever understand.” “I’m sure it will all be revealed in due time. In some ways, I have no doubt your relationship with your wife will be stronger for having gone through this trial. Trust in the Lord, and don’t blame Him. Remember, God doesn’t go by our timetable. It’s all in His control.” The words pierced Marc’s heart as he recalled his rash outburst in Dr. Fontaine’s office. Do I blame you, Lord, for what happened? For taking Natalie away from me? “I don’t want to blame God, but it’s all very confusing.”

“A woman can’t respect a man who doesn’t take charge of his own household. A Christian woman expects the man to be the leader of the home, both physically and spiritually. We have the God-given right and responsibility to take care of our wives and families and put them before ourselves. There’s no question as to God’s commands in that regard, Marc. We are to honor and respect our wives as our equals while still being strong and decisive in all things, as much as humanly possible. And, part of this rule is to pray both independently as well as together, on a daily basis.”

We have to keep our focus on what’s right and pure in God’s eyes and turn away from all temptation, no matter the source. Temptation is everywhere. The lines between right and wrong get blurred, and sin takes root and festers. Rationalizations are made to excuse unacceptable behavior. When push comes to shove, so many make the wrong choice, even Christian