July 23, 2023
Greetings and blessings to all of you. Marriage is under fire! Marriage is being dismissed and disrespected. The founder of Focus on the Family says, “people are asking, why shouldn’t the definition of family be broadened and modernize? What harm could be done by two consenting adults who love one another coming together to create a binding union?” People do not want to honor the institution of marriage as a sacrament; an institution designed by God that serves as a metaphor for the relationship between Christ and His church. “The thief (Satan) has come to rob, steal and destroy.” John 10:10-29 Look around...he is doing his job well. Christ died for the church. Can we do our part? That is to die to ourselves so God can be glorified in our being? Marriage designed by God is a wonderful fulfilling reality; a gift of God’s grace, and a mark of His kindness. It is a chance for two people to fully live out their Divine Purpose for Being. The two people in this union {created by the Master} must have their heart, mind and soul centered on Christ specifically focused on glorifying God. A commitment to each other is crucial. And to be successful in this.. each person must remain committed to Christ and His work within them. In Phil. 1:6 it says, “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Surrendering to God as your center; He will begin the work to shape and mold each person in all problems that arise such as sex, money, relatives, kids, and communication. He will help both parties with accepting differences and learning to see how they can be appreciated. Choosing to go through the process of learning to bear fruit of goodness, kindness, gentleness, patience, self-control, faithfulness, joy, peace and love then divorce would never be an option. What will please God? To develop a passion for Him through worship, fellowship, discipleship, ministry and missions. In that the two will realize that God has a greater purpose in the union than to make us happy…the greater purpose is to make the two individuals Holy. Our society has moved far from Holiness…that is why there are so many divorces, living together, fornication, same sex marriages, incest, adultery, pornography, and all vile sexual behaviors. We are a self-centered- selfish people. No different from the Israelites who complained and griped and practiced hedonism and child sacrifices. The culture may soon become “as it was in the days of Noah” Matt.24. Saints...it begins with a Godly Sorrow.
With the Love of Christ
First Lady Vivian C. Currie
Pastor ALC