Philippians 4:11-13 (ESV)
11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
I was reading through my bible verses journal notebook recently and stopped on these verses. In December 2011, Jesus told me very clearly that he will teach me how to be content in all situation. And he will use my marriage to teach me this. As you can imagine my heart sank. Jesus and I had the best honeymoon period the past few months and now what the heck?!
My husband’s grace period of acceptance towards my new faith turned to hostility and great suspicions. I remember one time I was crying out to Jesus in anguish and he shared with me that this process needs to be done. If I choose to run then it’ll only get postponed and he will use a different vehicle. So I made the decision to remain and allow God to use my marriage to mold and change me.
It’s been six years since I’ve received this message from Jesus. He was absolutely right, I have learned how to be content and I also have learned how to be brought low. I’ve discovered that it’s actually a powerful thing to know how to do these two things well. I’m no longer as ruled by my circumstances or controlled by destructive pride. And I’ve discovered that I really can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Don’t get me wrong I’m not perfect. I stumble and fall especially as God gives me more responsibilities and newer challenges. However I have learned to get back up and press on because I must attend to my Father’s business (Luke 2:49).
I’m reading a book that challenges us to think that marriage is there to make us holy. This has been my experience. I highly recommend this book because knowing this is better than being frustrated and resentful.
I wonder if the singles would stay away from getting married if they read this book first. I doubt it. Especially if they fall in love! 😍 Love has a way of making you very optimistic for a season.
Last year I read a very interesting article from the Financial Times newspaper. With Trump being elected as President they wanted to find out more about evangelical Christians in America. The facts are not good. Divorce is higher amongst evangelicals than any other religious groups, even atheists. I’ll try to find this old article and link it later.
If you are in a strained marriage, please read this book before making any long term plans. I’ll be praying for you. Please pray for me too. I especially need prayers for greater freedom to do my Father’s business. My husband has gotten much more tolerant but I still need to be very careful not to overextend his discomfort. Please pray for me to have great sensitivity and wisdom as I walk on this balancing rope everyday. Thank you for praying for me! Xoxo
2/5/18-Found the article! Praise God!
https://www.ft.com/content/b41d0ee6-1e96-11e7-b7d3-163f5a7f229c
Journal of Faith 