L.O.V.E.

Ok so I know I'm a little late with a valentines post, but it's still the week of, right? This week God has put two things on my heart: marriage and singleness. I know, I know, most people put these two things in different categories, but they really shouldn't be. Don't all of those who are married go through a time of singleness? Don't some of those who are married still feel single and alone? Is it not true that being single still consists of a relationship, a relationship of Christ and his individual children?

Our society often views singleness as a sad time, an unfortunate time in life to hurry up and get out of. Often times we think, I will be happy once I'm married. However, singleness according to Job, is a blessing, a beautiful season to be enjoyed and celebrated. With singleness comes a freedom and clarity that God uses for extraordinary ministry.

Marriage is one of God's best ideas, but that doesn't mean that it is an easy venture. It can be filled with times of joy and times of extreme struggling. Marriage can bring out the best in someone, or it can bring out the worst.

Both marriage and singleness can only work when God is at the center. I am not claiming to be an expert on marriage (I have been married for less than a year now). However, the pastor of my church, Pete Briscoe, has years of experience as well as God-given wisdom on the topic. In his message this weekend, he discussed eight lies that Satan tells us about marriage, and he combatted the lies with the truth that God tells us in his word. I want to share them with you...

Lie #1
Marriage is an archaic, irrelevant institution in modern society.

Truth #1
Marriage is a divine institution imperative for modern society.

Lie #2
You can't be happy unless your married.

Truth #2
Singleness is either a gift to cherish or a season to enjoy.

Lie #3
Your spouse will complete you.

Truth #3
Your spouse will complicate you, only God can complete you. (God is like the ice cream sundae, he is the substance, your spouse is like the cherry on top)

Lie #4
You two can handle this on your own. (Satan's lie of separation. Remember: Satan works to separate and isolate, the holy spirit works to unite)

Truth #4
Marriages surrounded by a loving, biblical community do better. (We need accountability, and other Christ-followers to see the lies and truths in our lives)

Lie #5
Divorce is an option.

Truth #5
Your marriage will suffer if you think you have an option to get out. (How do you separate something that has been one flesh?)

• There are exception clauses. However, remember that exceptions are EXCEPTIONAL to the rule. Permission is granted in extreme situations, but God ultimately prefers us to work on our marriages through forgiveness, trust, and perseverance.
• We have made the exception the general rule in our society.
• Engage in whatever is necessary to make your marriage work. Try and make a new marriage with the person you pledged to be with for the rest of your life.

Lie #6

The kids will be better off if you split up.

Truth #6

Divorce stinks for kids! 

Lie #7

Your marriage is hopeless.

Truth #7

Jesus can revive anything. You are not alone in your struggles.

Lie #8 

Marriage is hard and not worth the effort.

Truth #8

Marriage is one of God's best ideas!

Some of these seem like common sense, but I challenge you to read over them again, and really pray about the ones that stick out to you. No matter how long we have been married, there is always room to grow and reflect on making it deeper and more Christ-like. 

Here are some love songs for you guys...ones that are such encouragement to me in different ways.

XOXO