Deborah L. McCarragher's Blog

Optimism runs high as the New Year unfolds!  Another chance to
start fresh!  What will you do to make this year a year of "new beginnings"?

Did you make a New Year's resolution?

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

~ Learn something new

~ Make time for fitness

~ Get out of debt

~ Get organized

Most people resist change, but I say, "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.”
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 the idea of a clean slate – a chance to start over?

The Apostle Paul instructs us to know Christ in a new intimate way.  That kind of spiritual 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). We have a revelation from Christ that brings a fresh, spiritual comprehension, which in turn gives us apprehension to live out our Christianity with boldness. 
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.”

In the book of Revelation, John tells us that those worshiping 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 YOU" and our 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.

Even in these days of the unknown and unchartered we have confidence in this: that God is in control... We can live without fear and anxiety because God is sovereign and uses everything to bring good out of even the worst circumstances for our good and His glory. (Romans 8:28)

So - take this new year ahead with a grain of salt...  Look it square in the eye and face it with boldness and great faith that your Creator has a plan in place for you and yours...
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 proving

Thy presence all the days.

 Another year of mercies

Of faithfulness and grace;

Another year of gladness

In the shining of Thy face;

Another year of leaning

Upon Thy loving breast;

Another year of trusting,

Of quiet, happy rest.

Another year of service,

Of witness for Thy love;

Another year of training

For holier work above.

Another year is dawning:

Dear Father, let it be,

On earth or else in heaven,

Another year for Thee.

What are you facing this year?  Do you wrestle with a looming financial situation?  Are you dreading a changing family dynamic? Do you anxiously await a medical report or future surgery? Is your marriage looking like something out of a horror movie? Take heart... Jesus specializes in  new beginnings!
Here’s to a new year full of hope and anticipation in what  God has in store for you!
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

 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.  
                                         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 

 Sadness is an expression of grief or unhappiness. It often precedes a brief season of depression.

I am generally an upbeat, positive person. Cheerful, encouraging, and hopeful describe me most days.

So why do I find myself feeling so sad at times?  What causes me to well-up inside and become so despondent?  Why can't I control my emotions better - especially in the presence of other believers?

When you live in an  unequally-yoked marriage , you feel like you just don't belong in the local church the same way a Christian married couple does. You are essentially a "lone" Christ follower. Your habits and routines are different. Your giving and commitments are different. Your spiritual cadence is different from the other couples. You feel so out-of-step with everyone else. Here is a post I wrote earlier that deals with some of those differences titled  Are You Missing In Action?

Depression is a valid emotion in the cycle of life. Don't let anyone tell you not to feel sad or depressed. You are a human being, not a robot.  However, you can "visit" depression on occasion - just don't take up permanent "residence" there.

In I Kings 19:1-18 we read about Elijah and his struggles with depression. After God miraculously displayed His divine power on Mount Carmel, Elijah withdrew into the desert armed with a death wish. He hid in a cave and wailed "woe is me" before accusing God of leaving him all alone to fight the heathen foreigners.

King David struggled with depression and feelings of intense sadness more than once. Some of his emotions had to do with blatant sin, while others dealt with fear and rejection. He often questioned God about the whole matter.

Here are some of David's heartfelt pleas:  Lord, how long will You look on? Rescue me from their destruction... (Psalm 35:17)  Lord, all my desire is before You; and my sighing is not hidden from You. (Psalm 38:9)  Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? (Psalm 42:5)  Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me! For my soul trusts in You. (Psalm 57:1) Lord, I cry out to You; make haste to me! Give ear to my voice when I cry out to You. (Psalm 141:1)

It's okay to cry out to God and raise the question "Why?"
God already knows our struggles and fears. He sees down the road of uncertainty. He is aware of the pitfalls and traps laid by the enemy. He cannot be taken by surprise. Nothing is too difficult for Him to deal with.  So why do we fret and get ourselves so worked up over things we have little or no control over? What do we do with the intense feelings of sadness and heaviness that blanket our souls? How do we make sense of the heartache and sorrowful countenance?



Here are five possible reasons for your sadness...
1.  We are grieving the fact that our marriage partner isn't in sync with us spiritually. Believers have a spiritual discernment. We are instructed by the Spirit of God. Our unbelieving spouse can't grasp that concept and they are spiritually blind. Amos 3:3 declares, "Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?"  And Paul says in 2 Corinthians 6:14, "For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?"

2.  We are saddened by the thought that our best efforts haven't made a substantial difference in their spiritual conversion.  We have to be realistic here in our expectations. God is the one who draws unbelievers into fellowship with Himself. As Paul says in I Corinthians 3:6, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase."

3.  We have difficulty processing the fact that our marriage might never improve on the timetable or in the way we think it should. God has a specific plan for our marriage. He is never in a hurry, and He is never late. The important thing to remember is God wants to do what will bring Him the "most glory" with regards to our mate's salvation. God has given them His permissive "free will" to choose salvation or to reject it. Our place is to pray for their spiritual enlightenment. (Romans 10:20)

4.  We can't seem to grasp the thought of differences that may never be reconciled. One of the hardest things to do is to examine our own emotions and then take steps to deal with them honestly. My previous post  Can't We All Just Get Along?  has some great pointers to help you stay on track.

5.  We reluctantly recognize that depression may visit us for a season. We must come to grips with the fact that we will have good and bad days, ups and downs, highs and lows. Every marriage experiences "seasons" - and quite often they coincide with major life events, changes, challenges, and family dynamics that we have no control over. Our spouse will not always give us the support we long for. However, you can count on this: Jesus will never leave us or forsake us. (Joshua 1:5)


So how do we move forward and regain our spiritual footing?
Be practical and proactive. Start by doing the basics: eat right, exercise, and get plenty of sleep. When you feel overwhelmed - take a deep breath and prioritize. Give yourself permission to process sadness and grief. Keep yourself centered on God's Word. Pray for wisdom and understanding. Reprogram your mind to think on "things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report, and virtuous" (Philippians 4:8).

Don't worry - and be happy might just be words from a popular song - but they also help to redirect your thoughts. Our Lord Jesus put it this way, "And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest?" (Luke 12:25-26).




God will help you with your feelings of sadness and depression. Prayer and meditating on His Word brings comfort and security. God is our Wonderful Counselor (Isaiah 9:6).

Stay well connected with Christian friends. Continue with your small group studies and church activities when you find yourself wanting to withdraw. We were meant to be part of a community of believers. Encourage one another and extend grace even when it is undeserved.

Each day begins with a clean slate. Every dawn holds new opportunities and possibilities. Today is a good day for a good day...







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.

 

 

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

Okay – I’ll admit it...I was a 'Trekkie' back in the day. 
I loved watching Star Trek each week as Captain James T Kirk and First Officer Spock explored brave new worlds in far-away galaxies aboard the Federation Starship Enterprise.

Set the in 23rd century, their galactic adventures centered around the United Federation of Planets and its interaction with both friendly and hostile alien species.  Each week the show featured the young crew facing life and death decisions as they navigated through difficulties and dangers.

Mr. Spock would, on occasion, give a blessing of sorts to someone with whom he had respect for or to whom he paid homage to by saying,  “Live long and prosper” .  A caveat here: in my opinion, Gene Roddenberry likely had 3 John 2 in mind when he crafted that famous line.

To prosper is to become strong and flourishing – successful or thriving. It also refers to succeeding in an enterprise or economic activity. 

Genesis 39:5 and 39:23 refers to Joseph’s prospering under God’s mighty hand.  Verse 3 tells us, “And his mater saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord made all he did to prosper in his hand.”  Later in verse 23 we see, “The keeper of the prison did not look into anything that was under Joseph’s hand, because the Lord was with him; and whatever he did, the Lord made it prosper.”

Prosperity can relate to the physical, the mental, and the spiritual state. What does prosperity look like to the Christian? It is proof of God’s working within the daily circumstances of a believer’s life.  It can be an economic surplus, or it can be a physical advantage.  It may manifest itself as an emotional boost, or it can become a spiritual fountain.
Prosperity to me is an indication of inner joy working itself outward in a Christian’s life that is so evident to others that it can only be attributed to God.

Psalm 1 tells us that that the blessed man [woman] delights in God’s law and meditates on His precepts.  Verse 3 says, “He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.”

Psalm 35:27 tells us the Lord has pleasure in the prosperity of His servants.  Psalm 122:6 declares those who love the Lord will  prosper .  Even the Apostle Paul told the Corinthian church to “…lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come.”

Biblical prosperity opens the door for the Christian to share their abundance with those in need.  It is never to be hoarded and wasted.  Even King Solomon warned us in Ecclesiastes 7:14 that God brings both prosperity and adversity – that we might be joyful in the one, and mindful in the other.

3 John 2 was written as a greeting to John’s dear friend Gaius, who most likely supported traveling teachers and missionaries.   

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John commended him for his steadfast adherence to God’s Word.  He prayed for him to have good fortune and good health – that his everyday affairs would prosper and flourish as his soul did.  John was happy to hear the good report concerning his beloved student of truth.

In biblical times good health and longevity were a rarity.  Thus, this saying was frequently used to bless someone and to bestow God’s favor upon them by proxy. 

Our Vulcan friend might have exuded little to no emotion while giving his blessing, but we can all agree it is a benediction of sorts nonetheless.  


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

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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.

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 1840's by Esther A. Howland. (courtesy Wikipedia)

If God were to send you a Valentine what would it look like?
That is not a difficult question to answer if you are a Christian, for He has already given you one...  God's Word is His  Valentine  to you and me.  Not just any  Valentine  - but one that transcends our ability to grasp it's full impact.  God's Love Letter is given to us for all time and for all circumstances.  It is not limited to a special holiday.

God's requirement for us as His beloved is that we make Him our "first love" - wholly committed to Him. Our heart represents our core being.  Loving God with our  whole heart  means our affections must be focused foremost and fully on Him first. Only then can we love others with the love He loves us...

Love is the highest form of affection.  Agape love is the highest form of love according to God's Word. In your spiritually uneven marriage God wants to love your spouse through you, and that means even when you don't feel like it. 

It is the volition of your will that will direct your emotional response. Decide now that you will show your love by your actions.  Remember your vows:  to love and cherish, for better or for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness or in health...   Loving your husband needs to be unconditional and intentional.




When I write these posts I can honestly say I am reinforcing my own need to hear this.  I write and read these blog articles for my own admonishment and encouragement! I too struggle with emotions and the up and down feelings that accompany any marriage - especially when you are spiritually mismatched.  There is often a disconnect - a drifting apart that occurs with regards to spiritual intimacy.

This  Valentine's Day  do something special for your mate. .Sure - give them candy hearts and a card. Make them their favorite meal and spend quality time together.  Then give them something unexpected..

Give them a look in the eye honest thank-you for all that you have been through together. Men desire - no, men  need  our respect and love. Tell them that you’d marry them all over again – that they are just what God designed for you! Reinforce that through your marriage, children, family issues, parents' deaths, surgeries, illnesses, moves, remodels, and lots of other LIFE events, that you are totally committed to them!

What has touched my heart more than anything else over the years has been a consistent hand-written note in every Valentine card I receive from my husband, telling me that he loves me, and thanking God for me. This is a gesture of love coming from a man who has yet to make Jesus Christ the Lord of his life. How blessed I am!



In the book of Ephesians Chapter 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. Husbands are admonished to love their wives just as Christ loves the church. Wives are taught to respect their husbands. 

This portion of Scripture is not just for Christian marriages - but for all marriages. Our submission to Christ in our marriage is key to pleasing Him and our spouse.  You can visit a previous post I wrote on the subject of  submission  HERE .

Give your husband a  Valentine  straight from God's heart... give him love abounding from a grateful heart established in God's Word - full of peace and grace!

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.

 Just like Groundhog Day - it's a replay from the year before. The New Year and all the anticipation that it brings hangs in the balance...

But this past year was different. Our lives were turned upside down. We had to adjust to things that were not of our choosing or in our control...

We make resolutions, we start diets & exercise, we begin healthy habits and quit things that we've decided not to do anymore, all in an attempt to start afresh with a clean slate...

So - why do we feel like all the effort never pays off?  What can we do differently THIS YEAR to make our goals and dreams a reality?

Remember, you are in control of your own spiritual destiny with God.  It is a personal relationship between you and your Creator. Your mind, will, and emotions play an important part. Your volitional level involves your will (or willingness).  Your emotions and intellect carry out your desire. Make sure you aim for success by making the decision to follow through with your plans.  Here are a few tips to get you started...

First of all  ---  Don't stress out!  God's Word declares His mercy and compassion are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23).  When we fail (and we will) we know He is a God of fresh beginnings and second chances.  These are two of my favorites verses for encouragement:

Isaiah 43:18-19 “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.”  

Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, go give you a future and a hope."

Secondly  ---  Map out your overall strategy for the year ahead. Start out with small steps towards your goal. Keep reminding yourself that you're doing better than the previous year. Stay focused on the "big picture" and not on your failures. You will have setbacks and disappointments, so be ready for bumps in the road.  Thank God for your progress and ask Him to help you in your spiritual journey.




Thirdly  ---  Keep on keeping on! Don't give up or let the enemy of your soul taunt you. Every day that you set your mind and affection on Jesus Christ is a winning day!  Bask in His Word, keep on praying, and stay in fellowship with other believers. Isolation is one of Satan's greatest weapons. Encourage yourself daily in the Lord.  Ask Him to help you succeed by producing good fruit in your spiritual life (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control).


As we walk day by day through the year 2021, let us be comforted by this great hymn.
Leaning on the Everlasting Arms
What a fellowship, what a joy divine,Leaning on the everlasting arms;What a blessedness, what a peace is mine,Leaning on the everlasting arms.
   Leaning, leaning,   Safe and secure from all alarms;   Leaning, leaning,   Leaning on the everlasting arms.
O, how sweet to walk in this pilgrim way,Leaning on the everlasting arms;O, how bright the path grows from day to day,Leaning on the everlasting arms.
What have I to dread, what have I to fear,Leaning on the everlasting arms?I have blessed peace with my Lord so near,Leaning on the everlasting arms.
(Elisha Albright Hoffman)

In this New Year resolve to make forward progress with Christ:
As the Apostle Paul states in Philippians 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.”  

Enjoy two more of my favorite New Year's Eve posts from years past:
3 Steps to a New Year's Resolution You Can Keep

A Sure Foundation for the New Year





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

  It’s that time of year when expectations  run high… but they often don’t quite  measure-up to reality. 

This holiday season is different for sure... Travel is being discouraged, gathering to share a meal with multi generations is frowned upon, and many do not have the additional resources to spare for lavish presents and overindulgences. 
We all have unmet expectations when it comes to Christmas.  
Now might be a good time to reevaluate what is really important  this Christmas.  Faith, family and charity are my favorite things to focus on during this time of year. Here is my take on each of them:Christmas. 
FAITH -   Jesus is certainly the  Reason for the Season . The babe in the manger born in Bethlehem came into this world to fulfill prophesy foretold long ago of a Savior – Christ the Lord.  He is our Prince of Peace during times of turmoil and uncertainty.  Jesus is the “indescribable gift” from the Father above.(II Corinthians 9:15).
FAMILY -   Now there is a “loaded” subject.  We all have them, but sometimes we don't like them very much.  Often during family gatherings tensions arise between siblings, parents and children, and spouses.  Every family has their danger zone when it comes to relationship pitfalls.  Placing unrealistic expectations on your family can cause depression, anxiety, and anger.  Be sure bathe your holidays in prayer.  Extend grace where needed and use self-control liberally.
CHARITY -  Nothing makes you feel better than meeting a need and helping someone less fortunate than yourself.  Giving emulates the character of Jesus .  This is the season for gift giving and donating your time, energy and finances to worthy causes.  Share with others what the Lord has blessed you with. Remember, it is not the size of your gift – but the heart motive that matters.
Oftentimes family gatherings are a flashpoint for tensions.   


First of all - we likely don't have a perfect family - who does?  It might be stressful to deal with an ex-spouse or ex-in-laws.  Many people deal with new dynamics in a blended family. Things don’t always go as planned, so be sure to stay flexible and non-confrontational if possible.  Extend grace to others.  Don’t assume wrong motives.  Allow extra time for yourself in order to avoid a melt-down in the middle of cooking, cleaning and socializing with your extended family.  Ask others to help with food preparation, gift-wrapping, decorating and cleanup.
Give yourself permission to “let something go” that was on your to-do list without the guilt. Every year isn’t going to be a Norman Rockwell Christmas – and that is OKAY.   Recognize that not everyone is going to want to do what  you want to do  at Christmastime.  Give and take is essential with a large family as much as it is with a small one.  Feelings will get hurt and toes will get stepped on.  It’s OKAY.  Focus on the major things and don’t fret over the minor things.  Making memories that will last is honorable – but not at the expense of your sanity or your relationships.
Enjoy the journey. Keep your sanity by maintaining some boundaries.  Get plenty of rest, eat right, and exercise to keep yourself healthy and mentally balanced. Slow down...
Remember – JESUS is the Reason for the Season.  Everything else is just filler...

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.

 The holidays are fast approaching.  Are you feeling lonely at home - even amongst your family?  Do you wrestle with a sadness and disconnect during a time when commercials and advertisements portray unity and happiness?  Do you begin to fantasize about having what you perceive others have all around you?  What do you do with all those conflicting feelings and thoughts?
We all remember the classic Norman Rockwell painting of Thanksgiving Dinner.  It’s the quintessential portrait of the all American family gathered for a special meal and fellowship.  Sometimes life doesn’t imitate art…
During this pandemic - life is not normal... at least not the way it used to be... 
There will most likely be hesitation to gather under one roof for a large sit-down dinner. We probably won't have multi-generational family time like we did in years past...
There are new protocols for sanitation, social distancing, food preparation and meal sharing guidelines.One thing is certain -  nothing remains the same. It is for a season...
When you’re in an unequally yoked marriage, you will have days where you feel miserable and venerable.  There will always be drama. You may feel isolated and out-of-sorts. We all can recall times when we’ve just felt alone - but you don't need to let that dictate how you respond to others around you.



When I catch myself thinking thoughts that are not God honoring or when I wallow in self pity – I look up and acknowledge to God that I need help – fast !   What does He reveal to me in my moments of sorrow and helplessness?
 He reminds me that I have a loving and devoted husband, even though he has not yet given his life to Christ.He reminds me that Hollywood and advertisers would have me believe that every day is to be filled with roses and smiles and dreams come true. He reminds me that feelings last for a time, but commitment is everlasting. He reminds me that I tend to look at other marriages through “rose-colored glasses”. He reminds me that nothing affects His love for me – not even my doubt.
In Scripture, when David was ruthlessly pursued by King Saul, he found solace and peace in God. David wrote Psalm 27 during that time of anticipation, and verses 13-14 express his steadfast faith in God:  "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!"

Some of my favorite verses that express a spirit of thanksgiving are:
Psalm 107:1 Psalm 95:2-3 Colossians 3:16 Psalm 28:7 II Corinthians 2:14 Psalm 30:12 Psalm 75:1 Philippians 4:6 Psalm 100:4

Remember - true thanksgiving emits from a grateful heart. 
Even in turbulent times we can have a peace that surpasses understanding. As the storm rages above, there is a deep calm beneath the breaking waves...


Take a fresh inventory of your blessings and face the holidays with a renewed vigor and confidence, knowing that your Heavenly Father delights in you.

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.

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). Ultimately, only God Himself knows if they are truly saved.

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. There is a saying that "God has no grandchildren". 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 should be a time in your life where you can clearly point to  an event  or a private moment that changed you forever, and that is   your genuine conversion experience with the Lord Jesus Christ.
There is a super highway in life 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 many on the way. 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)
No doubt there will be many in heaven whom 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 candidly 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 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.

 

A well-known phone carrier was famous for its mantra of "Can you hear me now?"
The mobile phone user wanted to make sure he is heard from any location, at any time, in any situation.  Connection is the key to success.
Suppose you are on a call with your spouse and they begin to fade out.  It’s hard to hear them – you might only catch every other word. Their voice might grow faint and you may hear static in the background. You frantically move from room to room in hopes that the signal with grow stronger.
Sometimes you are in a place with God where your signal is weak and your connection is wavering.   

The fault is not at God’s end, but at yours.  You've moved out of range and now you no longer hear Him clearly. “Where are you, God?” 
Now go back in time with me… Remember playing with two cans and a string when you were little – believing you were in an urgent conversation with your sister or best friend?  Sure, you could hear alright, but every now and then you wondered if what you said actually got to the ear of whoever was on the receiving end.  The science says it works, but you had your doubts.

Dr. David Jeremiah [Turning Point Magazine] puts it this way:    Whenever we pray, God is on the other end of the line with His ear to the can, hearing every word and listening to every vibration of our voices.  He hears even the faintest sigh.  The prophet Daniel prayed regularly all his life and history was changed.  The apostle Paul prayed, and cities were opened to the Gospel.  Hannah prayed and God lifted her burden.
  If you’re in anguish or distress, you don’t need two cans and a string.  Two bent knees and a broken heart will do just fine.

So, how can you be sure you’re being heard?  What can you do from your end to keep the connection intact?    Here are four simple things:
     Keep the line open.  (confession, repentance, devotion)    Minimize distractions  (gadgets, TV, kids and pets)     Focus on God  (Bible, devotions, praise music)     Don’t lose hope while you wait.  (prayer)
I have personally been going through a season of wondering if I am hearing clearly from God or not. You know what I mean…You usually find yourself asking at least one of these questions out of frustration:
            “Lord, why don't you answer me?”            "Jesus, where are you?"            “Help me hear Your voice, Lord.”
I know intellectually that God is still where He has always been. The disconnection is at my end - not His!
I’m the one who has moved into the  “dead zone”  where the signal is faint at best, or non-existent at worst. Then I find myself rehearsing in my mind those things which might have caused the “dropped call”. 


One of my favorite verses is Psalm 139:23-24, “Search me, O God, and know my hear; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.”  Verses 1-4 give me pause to reflect on the fact that though I have interfered with the connection – God in His great mercy recognizes my human limitations and knows me intimately.  He comprehends my thoughts and my actions before I do.  His Spirit invites me to re-connect on a stronger signal.
I am glad God is still interested in having a dialog with me.  I often find myself taking a rogue thought captive and redirecting it to the Lord in the form of a prayer and praise.  I am determined to keep my line of communication open with Him despite my shortcomings and failures.
Do you have a tried and true method of staying connected to the Lord?  What advice can you share with others on how to maintain a strong signal through the constant static of life?


Now, more than ever - you need to hear Him clearly!
I am a sheep of the Lord’s pasture.  I listen for His voice.  I follow Him closely.

Yes Lord - I've got 5 bars now!



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.