A Gift from God!

Dear Friend,

I love when God confirms "a thing" check out the words from my friend D. Andrews on being content while you are married, or content in your singleness.

Good Morning Ladies (and few gents),

Well, we have reached the end of my writing week. And I would like to close with two verses; the first addresses a question the Corinthian church sent to Paul among a list of questions. They were looking for guidance as they lived among people who were doing their own thing. Nothing much has changed in our day. Marriage or singleness, what is a Christ-follower to do?

I’m not sure why this topic or verse moved up the ladder of importance in my thought process, other than having been asked several times this week about relationships, expectations and how to safely maneuver between the two. I’m no expert, but Darrell and I are celebrating our 29th wedding anniversary next week. So, as I discuss with people trying to walk life’s tightrope between what culture has to say and what God’s Word says about marriage and/or singleness. Here is something scripture has taught me.

I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that. 1 Corinthians 7:7 NIV

Both marriage and singleness are gifts from God. Sadly, you would not know that to be true by visiting most churches across the country. OUCH or Amen! GiG, don’t get it twisted; neither marriage nor singleness is morally better than the other. Both are valuable to accomplish God’s purposes. It is important for us, therefore, to accept our present situation whether that is married or single.

When the apostle Paul said he wished that all people were like him (i.e., unmarried), he appears to be expressing his desire that more people would devote themselves completely to the ministry without the added concerns of spouse and family, as he had done. He was not criticizing marriage—after all, it is God’s created way of providing companionship and populating the earth.

In 1 Corinthians 12:7 in The Message translation, look it up. We are reminded that we each are given something to do that shows who God is. So, our inheritance is grace based and equal, but our assignments are tailor-made. Let’s take a careful inventory of who we are and the work we have been given, and then sink ourselves into that. And as Max Lucado would say, “Just be you!”

Second, The wise counsel God gives when I’m awake is confirmed by my sleeping heart. Day and night I’ll stick with God; I’ve got a good thing going and I’m not letting go. Psalm 16:8 MSG

David is reminding us not to let go of our unique sense of security we should all be feeling as believers. It should come as no surprise to us all that God does not exempt us from the day-to-day circumstances of life. We like the unbelievers in our homes, communities, and churches will experience pain, failure, and trouble at times. But if we, the children of God, seek God, we can move ahead confidently with what we know is right and important in God’s eyes. Regardless of the “chicken little’s among us shouting—the sky is falling; the sky is falling.” We can rest ashore that God will keep us from being moved off his chosen path.

May we be encouraged to move ahead confidently, boldly whether within marriage or singleness. We have a good thing going, a personal relationship with Jesus—don’t let it go!

Called to serve and encouraging others to thrive,

DEA: Embracing a Just Be Joyful Life 2020: Laughing, Loving, and Living Life That Extends Far Beyond My Circumstances