THE HEART OF THE MATTER
In terms of biblical marriage, commitment is covenantal in nature (Gen. 2:20-25
); take specific note of (v. 24); here is where marriages of today go astray. Traditionally, marriage was looked upon as a sacred institution. However, today with emphasis on the sole needs of the individual, that is, the me, me, I, I orientation; has caused massive destruction in the family. Thus, when marriage ceases to be held as a sacred institution; we/us orientation, it opens the door for a stagnant and dying marriage and thus the destruction of the family. When the marriage dies, the children and the family soon follow; Ephesians 5: 28-33 calls us to a mutual love and respect for one another under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.
This is the heart of the matter: Universally the problem is spiritual in nature and, therefore, so must be the cure. Individually and culturally, children who are not nurtured properly and who do not come to know and understand God’s unconditional love and grace, and the implications of the imago dei (Image of God: Gen. 1:26) will have many internal struggles. Because humankind does not understand the consequences of the fall (Gen. 3), we carry depraved attitudes and behaviors into our world creating dysfunction in a every area of our lives and in society as a whole perpetuating cycles of brokenness that lasts from generation to generation until the cycle is broken.
ARE YOU WILLING TO BREAK THE CYCLE?
Step 1—Admit that you are a sinner (Rom. 3:10).
Step 2—Be willing to turn from sin (Acts 17:30).
Step 3—Believe that Jesus Christ died for you, was buried and rose from the dead (Rom. 10:9-10).
Step 4—Invite Jesus Christ into your life to be your Lord and Savior (Rom. 10:13).
PRAY: Dear God,
I am a sinner and need forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ shed His precious blood and died for my sin. I am willing to turn from sin. I now invite Christ to come into my heart and life as my personal Savior.
If you prayed this prayer expect things to change in your life. Not overnight, but gradually as you trust God.
Now, read your Bible or get one and read it! Talk to God as you would talk to me. You can email me at: barbara@realitymissionsministry.org; or matthewsrmm@gmail.com.
REMEMBER: “But as it is written, eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that love Him” (1 Cor. 2:9).
May the God of mercy be with you always, and may the angel of peace rest upon your shoulders.
Loving God, loving you,
Barbara