This morning I had no intentions of writing, but I thought, well, I’ll check out the prayer requests. Stacey- your prayer just hit me like a ton of bricks.

My heart breaks for marriages across our country. In the summer of last year, some dear friends of mine announced they were separating and soon after, divorced. Their outward struggles encouraged me to look inward. I discovered that my own marriage was damaged. No marriage is free from difficulties! We all have them! I was holding on to past mistakes, hurtful words, disappointment… Luckily, God brought healing through multiple sources.

My husband and I decided that before it got to the place of separation and pulling apart, we would seek wise counsel. We both knew that we never wanted to leave each other. Our vows meant something. We were going to fight back against the invisible war. We first sought God’s counsel. Then, we sought wisdom with others we trusted. Proverbs 15:22 ”Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”

My father-in-law gave us a book called, ”Bait of Satan” by John Bevere. What powerful advise at a time when I needed it most. My pride was hit hard after reading this book. Sometimes, we need to hear what we don’t want to! The book pointed me to 1 Peter 4:12-13, ”Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trials which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you, but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings; that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.”

I recently made a chalkboard wall in my kitchen. I often
write scriptures on it that I need to read and let resonate. This verse has been up since May of this year. I can’t bring myself to erase it. Below the scripture, I’ve written, ”Pride defends. Humility agrees.” Also from the book, ”Pride causes you to view yourself as a victim. Your attitude becomes, ”I was mistreated and misjudged; therefore, I am justified in my behavior.” Because you believe you are innocent and falsely accused, you hold back forgiveness.” THAT WAS ME! I kept focusing on everything my husband was doing instead of simply focusing on me.

While reading this book, we also met with our pastor. What a humbling experience that was! After four session with him, we gained the perspective needed to move forward. Not only have we moved on, we have grown closer to one another and closer to the Lord. I’ve found a new love for my husband. The very things that were getting under my skin before are what makes him, him! I’m embracing him and seeing now that God has given us our differences to make us stronger. We celebrated ten years of marriage this last summer, and I give God all the praise.

When I read your prayer request, I couldn’t help but think… I was there. Right there not too long ago. I pray that your marriage finds peace and knowing God’s promises, it will.

PS- I’ve attached a picture of the verse in my kitchen. I find it interesting that my daughter so happened to almost scratch out pride and underline humility… I don’t think that is coincidental…