Rest and peace are, perhaps, the most elusive elements in cases of oppression. There is no rest. There is no peace. Women and children are isolated with few resources against ravenous wolves. There are those that believe this is normal. Jesus says otherwise. When I am fighting sin and injustice, although I long for a … Continue reading Rest
Trust
One Flesh
A pastor once told me that he hates to see couples separate because separation leads to divorce. The basis of this claim rested on physical intimacy. How could a couple be one flesh if the husband is denied regular, physical intimacy--his "due" or "debt" (according to 1 Corinthians 7:3-5). I beg to differ. In cases … Continue reading One Flesh
The D Word: A Proper Focus
Many individuals, men, and churches fall off the wagon of biblical interpretation with the D word [divorce]. Take a moment to back out of cultural norms, fears, and misconceptions. I’m not promoting anything here except sound biblical thinking, so don’t raise your hackles (yet) or run in fear. Divorce is the exception. Marriage is the rule. God’s focus is marriage: His covenantal relationship with Israel, Christ’s sacrificial love for the church.
Love is a Dangerous Word
One of the most common pieces of advice is for husbands to tell their wives, "I love you" when things have gone awry. (Trigger warning) This is why that's a bad idea: The word "love" is equated with action. So in imbalanced, or sin-driven marriages, "I love you" means: I love how you make me … Continue reading Love is a Dangerous Word
About the Children
In homes with domestic violence, 50% of children are sexually and physically abused. America loses 5 children a day to abuse and neglect. Our churches, to our shame, are not exempt. The homes in our churches are not exempt. We must be watchful. Approachable. Trustworthy. Actively engaging the evil in our world with good, by the grace of God.
Headship: Take 2
A body that is cared for the way Jesus cares for His bride will be healthy and vibrant. It will love and serve others outside itself.
Assigning Value
Each of us rearranges and changes our life based on what has the most value and what we find attractive or good. What I say is reinforced or denied by my actions.
Crying out…and Waiting
Crying out to God has two very difficult components--going to Him directly (which requires humility and faith) and waiting. If you've ever tried--or not had a choice--you know waiting is oh, so difficult. Like a muscle, waiting strengthens with time, intentionality, and practice.
The Importance of Crying Out
Cry out. God hears. God sees. He remembers you. He sees your affliction (even if you don't know what to call it). He will deliver you. Don't rely on yourself or others. Ask Him for help...
When Sinned Against
The following is a recording of the second session as it relates to thinking/responding biblically when a wife is sinned against by her husband. Topics covered are biblical resistance, love covers a multitude of sin, forgive and forget, forgiveness and reconciliation, forgiveness and trust, anger, and marriage.
Seeking Sanctuary 