Is God Cruel?

With so much racial tension, religious division, political polarization, cancer, COVID-19, the increase in violence, human trafficking, so much disease, wickedness and cruelty; how can people really believe that God is good?  In fact, with all of the chaos and suffering in the world, it could cause some to wonder if God even exists; and if He does exist, how can we ever believe He is a God of love? How can a loving God destroy the earth with a Flood?... allow a global pandemic?... refuse to stop the suffering?

To answer these questions, we must return to the very beginning. Genesis 1-2 tell us that everything God made was good and ultimately very good.  Plants, animals and humans were created with maturity and set in the most perfect garden home. There were no predators and prey, there was no disease and death, there were no weeds and toiling, there was no fussing and feuding – only the most perfect of perfect settings in this world that God created.

Sadly, Adam & Eve CHOSE to rebel against God and believe the lie that God was holding things back from them. Being instructed by God not to eat of the “Tree of Knowledge of Good & Evil” and being forewarned of the consequences, should they do so; they chose to rebel against God. This act resulted in what is known as the Fall of Man and the curse on the once perfect world (Gen. 3).

God did not cause the violence, division, evil, suffering, sickness, disease and death.  These things came into our world because of the choice made by Adam and Eve to commit high-treason against their Creator – the Holy One Who created them, loved them and set them in a perfect world. They lied, they tried to hide their sin, pride crept in, they tried to cover themselves with leaves, they lied and the downward spiral has continued from that day until now.

While God made a way to redeem them through the blood of the Lamb, that redemption was for their soul; not for the sake of erasing the consequences of their actions. In came sweat, pain in childbirth, murder, sadness, sickness, disease, evil, and all that our world endures today. The suffering and violence that we see today is the result of humans thinking they knew better than God and revolting against Him.

So before you blame God for the condition of our world, realize this is far from the world He created and the plan that He intended. The fallen condition of our world was ushered in by the first Adam; but salvation and redemption is the work of the second Adam – Jesus Christ!  For those who know Christ as Savior, we can claim the promise of Rev. 21:4 - And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

So to summarize, God is patiently waiting and delaying His final judgment on this sin-sick and fallen world. He is giving people time to repent and turn from their sin and turn to Him for salvation. God wants each of us to spend eternity with Him in Heaven -- that place where there will be no more suffering, sorrow, sickness, disease or death.  For whosoever will may come -- have you invited Jesus Christ to be your Savior and Lord?  If not, what are you waiting for?

Take time to read:  2 Peter 3:9; 1 Cor. 15:26 and Rev. 21:3-4.  Also take some time to read back through Genesis 1-2 to see the perfect state of God’s creation and then Genesis 3 to see how the world has deteriorated into the fallen state that we observe today.

Doors of the Bible

Let’s Make a Deal” has been a long-running and very popular TV game show. The show will often give people the choice of selecting the prize behind door #1, door #2 or door #3.  The prizes behind the doors can range from a toaster oven to a brand new car!  Contestants will often look to their friends and family members in the audience to help them make the decision of which door to pick.  Some win and some lose, but all are rewarded based on the door they choose.

Interestingly, we also read about many doors in the pages of the Bible and each of these doors also comes with a prize. To make the proper selection can result in eternal life or death – so we must choose wisely.

1. Door to the Ark  (Genesis 6:16)

The ark had only one door through which the people and the animals all entered into the safety of the ship.  All of mankind was invited to walk through the door and to find safety inside the ark, but only 8 chose to enter. The choice of each individual resulted in his/her salvation or destruction.

2. Passover Door (Exodus 12:3-12)

During the 10^th plague prior to the Exodus, God instructed the Israelites to kill a lamb and to paint its blood on the sides and tops of the doorframes of their houses … The blood was to be a sign for the death angel to pass-over those houses (those lives were spared). We too can choose to apply the blood of the Lamb of God and be saved.

3. Inner Temple Doors (Hebrews 10:4)

"For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins.”  This teaching was given to those Jews who had been practicing the “Day of Atonement” and forgiveness of sins through the sacrifices of the priests.  Once Jesus’ sacrifice had been made on the cross, the Law fell short and only those who found forgiveness through the blood of Jesus (the Lamb of God) could be made right with God.

4. Sheep’s Door (John 10:7,9)

During a visit to Israel we saw the common areas shepherds share for keeping their sheep safe at night. There is one way in and one way out.  Jn 10:1 states, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.  Jesus said, “I am the door of the sheep… I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.”  There is safety under the care of the Good Shepherd and He states the benefit of choosing the right door is salvation and rest.

5. Door to Salvation (John 14:6)

Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). The way of salvation in Noah’s day was the wooden Ark with a single door. Today, the way of salvation is through the wooden cross upon which Jesus died. We are promised that those who choose to find remission / forgiveness of sin through the shed blood of Jesus Christ will be saved.

6. Tomb’s Door (The stone in Mark 16:4)

When Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome approached the tomb, “…they looked up, they saw that the stone had been rolled away—for it was very large.”  Jesus entered the door as a dead man and left fully and physically alive! He victoriously conquered death and hell, fulfilled His prophecies of resurrection, and now sits on the right hand of the Father interceding for us.  It is completely up to you whether you choose to follow a dead god or choose to follow the risen Savior!

7. Narrow Door  (Matt. 7:13-14)

“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide  the gate and broad  the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. ¹⁴ Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”  Throughout history and through the Scriptures we find that the majority is often wrong! Following Jesus may not be the easy or popular choice, but the choice is yours and the results are eternal.

Today, you get to choose a door. The prizes behind the doors differ -- behind one door is Heaven and the other is Hell.  Behind one door is eternal life and behind the other is eternal torment and damnation. One thing that is different from game show “Let’s Make a Deal” is that God has already told you which door to pick, but he still gives you the power to make the choice.

So, which door will you pick today?  Will you choose to confess your sins and choose Jesus Christ as your Savior?  Or, will you choose to reject Christ and pick for yourself damnation?  The choice is yours! 

How Should Christians Respond to Racism?

Today’s children are being taught a whole new vocabulary: “Woke,” “Systematic Racism,” “Critical Race Theory,” “Whiteness,” and so many, many more divisive terms.  When we take a few minutes to really study history, we notice that great strides had been made toward eliminating racism in America.  It was not until 2010 that the embers of racism started being fanned again. Whether it was for political gain or simply to cause division, racism was resurrected and has been spewing forth with a vengeance. There have always been small pockets and fringe groups of Nazi’s, Skin-heads, etc.; but those backwoods groups that were not often heard from have been catapulted to the forefront by those seeking to divide our nation. So what is a Christ-follower to do? 

First, we must know the issues. Someone once said, “It is better to keep your mouth shut and let people think you are a fool, than to open it and remove all doubt.”  Some attribute the quote to Abraham Lincoln, others to Mark Twain.  The real quote is found in Proverbs 17:28 – “Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue.” So let’s look briefly at the issues, so we can know what we are really talking about.

• Critical Race Theory is a view of society that deems a group to be oppressed and another to be the oppressors.  (men vs. women, black vs. white, healthy vs. disabled, etc.)  CRT interprets everything through the lens of someone is oppressed and someone is the oppressor.
• The Bible teaches that all mankind are sinners in need of the Savior -- that no man is good enough to get to heaven -- and that their only hope comes through the blood of Jesus Christ that paid our sin debt. Notice that skin color never enters the equation.

• Social Justice is the desire to right the wrongs we see happening around us. Many Christians have a heart for social justice; but wrongly choose to participate in violence or become toxic in response to their feelings and emotions.
• Real change and transformation comes through exhibiting the love of Christ and working to bring unity in the church and across the community. The Apostle Paul said, “If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone.”

• “Whiteness” takes on so many different meanings. A simple Google search will reveal that there are many differing definitions among those who use the term.  Most refer to the customs, culture and privileges of those having white skin in America. One groups states – “Racism is based on the concept of whiteness…” and calls it a constantly shifting boundary.
• Scientific Fact – All mankind have skin tones that are some shade of brown. The differences are simply the result of variations in pigmentation, stemming from genetics or exposure to the sun. So any cultural aspects associate with skin color are man-made and are learned within society and/or the family structure.

So what are people who teach these various concepts of racism trying to achieve?  It appears their ultimate goal is Utopia. They want everything to be perfectly equal among all the races. In addition, there are others who seek Utopia among genders, lifestyles, religions, etc.

The Bible is VERY clear regarding its teachings on prejudice and racism.  Sadly, some professing Christians have misused Bible passages to spread racist ideas; but the Bible teachings are very clear to those who truly seek its advice.

1. We are all created by God.

Genesis 2:7 - And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.

2. We are all made in God’s image.

Genesis 1:26-27 -  Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” ²⁷ So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.

3. We are all one race.

Acts 17:26 – And He has made from one ^[a]blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings,

4. We are all loved by God.

John 3:16 -  For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Let me close this devotion with the lyrics to an old children’s song, written by George Root. The song is familiar and we would all do well to get reacquainted with its message during this time when racism is dividing the nation – and even the Church:

Jesus loves the little children
All the children of the world
Red& yellow, black & white
They are precious in his sight
Jesus loves the little children of the world

Jesus cares for all the children
All the children of the world
Black and yellow, red and white
They're all precious in His sight
Jesus cares for all the children of the world

Jesus came to save the children of the world
Red and yellow Black and white
They're all precious in His sight
Jesus loves the little children of the world

Noah's Ark is NOT a Fairy Tale

 

Have you ever seen the cute pictures of Noah’s Ark?  What about the church diaper-bag tags with a cartoon of Noah's Ark on them? Does your child have a toy ark with the cute stuffed animals?  Maybe you decorated your child's bedroom or baby nursery with the adorable little baby animals?

My wife and I recently crossed an item off our bucket list, when we visited the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, KY.  The exhibit opened in 2016 and displays a full-size version of Noah’s Ark, a zoo, zip lines, restaurants and more!  I would certainly recommend it for a family trip and you should also plan to visit the Creation Museum while you are there.

When you walk through the rainbow gateway to the park, your eyes immediately see the ark and your jaw drops open. The ship is massive!  It has three decks, cages, storage areas, living quarters, interactive exhibits, concession stands, a gift shop, animals that look real and yes… even dinosaurs!

A very small section of the Ark Encounter made the biggest impression on me. The section was called the “Fairy Tale Ark” exhibit. The section was bright and cheerful, and immediately lured children into the fun and very cute room. Once inside, the parents were confronted with the reality of Noah’s Ark and the horror of the Flood.  The world-wide Flood was God’s greatest judgment on mankind to this date.  It was gruesome and horrifying to say the least. The “cute” pictures, logos and décor that we see utilizing the ark; too often hide the meaning of the story – GOD JUDGED AND DESTROYED THE EARTH!  Think about it… people, animals and every living thing that walked/crept on this earth drowned.  Only Noah, his family members, and the animals with them in the ark survived.

The reality is that God exercised Divine Judgment to punish the people for their sinful choices, behaviors, lifestyles and indulgences. The world had become so wicked and the people had turned their back on their Creator, to the point that God regretted creating them.

Genesis 6:6-7 says – “The Lord regretted making human beings on the earth, and his heart was grieved. ⁷ So the Lord said: I will wipe out from the earth the human beings I have created, and not only the human beings, but also the animals and the crawling things and the birds of the air, for I regret that I made them.”

A plaque in the Ark Encounter states it this way:

“ Jesus spoke about the days prior to the Flood in Matthew 24:37-39. He said that the people went about their regular activities – eating, drinking, marrying, and giving in marriage – until the day Noah entered the Ark. They were unaware of the coming judgment until the Flood swept them all away.  Jesus also likened the state of the world at the time of His return to the condition of the world in the days of Noah.”

So we have to ask the question, “Why do churches and Bible-believing parents paint such a fairy tale picture of Noah’s Ark?” The answer is that they either do not understand or do not believe the Bible! The flood was God's judgment on a wicked world -- not a happy story about adorable animals.  Those who teach Bible stories as fairy tales are undermining every effort to make disciples of the children that God has entrusted to them.  For if you can convince someone that the Flood was not real, then you can also convince them that Heaven is not real.

What should be our real take-away from the story of the Flood and Noah’s Ark?  We find the answer in Matthew 24:37 and Luke 17:26 – “For as it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.”

Now you know… so today, you are accountable for whether you teach God’s Word accurately or convince your children that the stories of the Bible are simply fairy tales.  Regardless of your choice, most would agree that our present world looks a lot like it did in the days of Noah.  Realizing this, the ultimate question is, “Are you ready if Christ was to return today?”

You can see pictures and read more about the “Fairy Tale Ark” by clicking this link - 

https://arkencounter.com/blog/2018/09/20/fairy-tale-ark-exhibit-teaching-our-children-truth/

Psalms, Hymns & Spiritual Songs

 

Do you find yourself singing in the shower... while you do chores... or joining in when you hear a familiar song on the radio?  I love to hear one of our housekeeping staff as she sings while she works.  I remember vacuuming in the church one time, while wearing headphones. I was belting out the song, but not realizing anyone else was around. All they heard was my terrible voice, which is not even a joyful noise... it's just noise!  When you have the joy of the Lord, you just can't help but to sing.  He puts a new song in our heart and we can't keep it in.

Sadly, there is FAR too much conversation and controversy in today's churches regarding musical styles. Satan is using a beautiful tool designed for worship and using it to divide the Body of Christ.  The Bible is very clear about the music that should fill our hearts and help us bring glory to God. The Apostle Paul outlines this in his instructions to the Church at Ephesus. Listen to Eph. 5:19 - "Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord."  Let's examine what these types of songs are and the differences between them.

Psalms are inspired songs that were part of the Hebrew Scriptures and used to give praise to God in corporate worship.  In Mark 12:36, the writer quotes Psalm 110:1 -  "David himself, speaking by the Holy Spirit, declared: “‘The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand until I put your enemies under your feet."  The Holy Spirit led David to write and this Psalm was included as part of the Holy Scriptures. So, Psalms are literally songs inspired by God.

Hymns is obviously not Paul's reference to the "hymns" that we have in our hymnals today.  Humorously, many of the hymns that religious zealots defend today were set to early bar-room tunes and not initially permitted to be sung in the churches.  The hymns Paul refers to were not inspired songs and were not included in the pages of the Bible, but they often taught doctrinal truths and were included in Jewish worship. Some of the great hymns of the faith also teach doctrine truths and should be included in corporate worship and taught to our children.  So, hymns are songs written and sung to God by the worshippers.  

Spiritual Songs communicate a wide variety of sacred themes. They may teach, encourage, prompt action, express the joy of salvation, revel in the grace of Christ, or exalt the greatness and power of God. These songs, praise choruses, worship music, etc. span various genres. These are the songs that are so often shunned by the older "religious" crowd, because they don't like the musical style, repetition, etc. The Apostle Paul said to include spiritual songs about God in our worship of God.

So, the Apostle Paul instructed the church to use psalms, hymns and spiritual songs.  Rather than arguing that God only likes "your" style of music, let us realize that God is the God of variety! Realize that music was part of Lucifer's anatomy (Ezekiel 28:13 KJV- ...the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created.)  It only makes sense that Satan would use his strongest gift to divide the Body of Christ.  So, let's stop arguing and focus on worshipping. Let's each sing the song(s) the Holy Spirit places in our individual hearts. Just belt it out (psalms, hymns & spiritual songs) and let others know that you have the joy of the Lord -- even if you don't have a great voice.

Praise Report for June 2021

 In Psalm 26, we read, “…I come to your altar, O Lord, singing a song of thanksgiving and telling of all your wonders.” I want to take a few minutes to tell you of the wonders God has been doing here at Grace Church during the month of June.

We are blessed and thankful to be almost fully reopened after the pandemic. The final move to reopen will be to relaunch our AWANA clubs this fall (Sept. 8). People are coming back to worship, groups are gathering for fellowship, and it is good to see people’s faces as they enter the church & join together for corporate worship.

1. In the month of June, God blessed us with:

• 5 people trusting Jesus Christ as their personal Savior
• 5 adults & 2 teenagers taking the step of baptism
• 5 adults completing our membership class and becoming part of our church family.
• Salvations – 5
  
  

2. Music was a BIG part of our ministry in May/June.

• HCA band concert
• HCA choir concert
• Caroline Canning’s senior recital
• Night of Worship for the whole church family

3. We were blessed by our Annual Church meeting.  While that may seem strange to some, our church is of one accord and unified in purpose.

• We exceeded our 2020-21 missions budget and increased our missions budget by $10,000 for 2021-22. 
• We made a few changes in our Bylaws to better serve our people.
• New Deacons and Church officers were elected to serve the body.
• A new budget was passed to help us accomplish the vision God has given to us.

4. “Supper 8” is our effort to connect the adults in our church body and to introduce new families to our church members.  This has been so well received with 90+ adults participating and enjoying meals in each other’s homes.

5. Pastor Duane preached on the Sunday that Flora & I were with our family in Virginia. His message on “Rest” was very much needed by the educators in our church, who have been stretched so thin by hybrid learning during COVID.

6. Our Grace Family kicked-off our summer Sunday nights with “Worship and Watermelon” on June 13. We had not seen rain in months; but that event had to be moved inside, due to the monsoon!  People still came, worshipped, shared testimonies, enjoyed the watermelon and each other’s company.

7. We were blessed to honor the dads of our church on Father’s Day. We recognized men in some humorous categories and gave bright colored socks to the winners! That night, the men and sons of our church gathered for a basketball fellowship in our gym.

8. Our Grace Ladies hosted a craft night that was VERY well attended! They had such a great time painting pottery and making bird houses. You should take time to visit our Facebook page, to see pictures of this event.

9. VBS was back to a normal format this year, although the attendance was slightly lower. We had 300+ participating in the “Treasured” VBS and we also hosted a VBS for adults that was also well attended. Our thanks to Miss Method, all of our volunteers, and the Nicholson’s for directing our adults.

10. Summer Day Camp has been a hit this year with 120+ children enrolled. They are having a great time with trips, daily activities, crafts, games, and so much more. We thank God for allowing us to open up to the public again this summer.

11. We also thank God for the excitement we are seeing as we look toward the fall.

• AWANA returns on Wednesday, Sept. 8
• Our new Equipping-U will also launch with a 4-year discipleship track made-up of 12-16 in-depth classes including: Doctrinal studies, OT Survey, NT Survey, Bibliology and more!
• Our LIFEgroups will become “Connection groups” and some new efforts will be made to connect our church family and revamp our curriculum for more participation.
• We’re also adding a brand new weekly welcome class for our first-time guests.

12. Finally, there is so much happening at Highlands Christian Academy!

• Our enrollment looks GREAT for 2021-2022 with many new students joining our HCA family.
• All of our teaching positions have now been filled and we believe God has brought us some wonderful and exciting educators who are excited about their subjects, but also committed to our “Biblical Immersion” model.

The list of blessings goes on and on! We take no credit and give God ALL the glory for the things HE is doing at Grace and Highlands. We also thank each of our family members, who are embracing the mission and supporting the vision.

Thank you, God, for the wonderful things You did through the people of Grace in June! 

Evidence of Our Christian Heritage Across Washington, D.C.

 

The face of our nation and our political climate is changing more rapidly than at any other time in our nation's history! The USA appears to be following the track of Europe and quickly moving toward post-modernism. Who could have imagined the unity & patriotism that followed the 9/11/01 attack on the World Trade Center would deteriorate into the extreme political polarization that divides our nation today? Who could have imagined wickedness and open debauchery would become a normal part of our society? Who could have imagined that those who risked their lives to escape Communism & Socialism would arrive on our shores to hear people pushing for Socialism here in the USA? Who would have imagined our Founding Fathers would be labeled evil men? Who could have imagined prisoners released due to COVID, would be replaced by ministers imprisoned for holding church services? Who would have imagined that biblical, Christian values would ever be labeled as "hate?"  

In this new era, many schools, universities and politicians are attempting to rewrite history; even making efforts to remove the 245 years of influence that Christianity has had on our nation.  It doesn't take much effort for one to realize that America was founded upon Christian principles and the God of the Bible. While efforts are being made to rewrite history, it is interesting to discover that some of the greatest proofs of our nation's Christian roots are found across Washington, D.C.  Just consider the following examples:

The Washington Monument
From the tallest structure in Washington a message of ‘Praise be to God”  goes forth. Engraved upon the aluminum capstone on the top of this 555 foot monument is Laus Deo. Inside the structure are carved tribute blocks with many Godly messages: “Holiness to the Lord,” “Search the Scriptures,” “The memory of the just is blessed,” and others.

The Library of Congress
Within the Great Hall of the Jefferson Building are two cases, one containing a Gutenberg Bible and the other a hand-copied Giant Bible of Mainz. Many Biblical inscriptions can be found on the ceiling and walls.

In the Main Reading Room are statues and quotes representing fields of knowledge. Moses and Paul represent religion, with the inscription, “What doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy and to walk humbly with thy God?”

The Supreme Court
The Biblical foundation of American law is evidenced throughout this building. On the outside East Pediment is a marble relief of Moses holding tablets containing the Ten Commandments. Engraved on the oak doors at the entrance of the Court Chamber are the Roman numerals I through X, and above the heads of the justices is a carved marble relief with a large stone tablet containing I through X (each set of numerals represents ancient law, that is the Ten Commandments).

The Capitol Building
All of the eight large paintings in the Rotunda present aspects of our Christian history including The Baptism of Pocahontas and Departure of the Pilgrims from Holland which depicts the Pilgrims observing a day of prayer and fasting. “In God We Trust,” our national motto, is inscribed in letters of gold behind the speaker’s rostrum in the House Chamber. Also in this chamber, above the central Gallery door, is a marble sculpture of Moses.

The White House
An inscription by the first president to inhabit the White House, John Adams, is cut into the marble facing of the State Dining Room fireplace. It reads: “I pray Heaven to Bestow the Best of Blessings on THIS HOUSE and on All that shall hereafter Inhabit it. May none but Honest and Wise Men ever rule under this Roof.”

OTHER MONUMENTS AND BUILDINGS

On the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery is the inscription: “Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God.” On the front facade of Union Station three Scripture verses are engraved including, “Thou has put all things under his feet” and “The truth shall make you free.” Lincoln’s words on his memorial exclaim “that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom.”

While some would like to erase the influence of Christianity from our nation's history, Chief Justice William Rehnquist stated it well, “No amount of repetition of historical errors . . . can make the errors true.”

As we come to July 4 and the celebrations to commemorate the birth of our great nation, let's take time to reflect on the Christian principles upon which this nation was founded. Let's thank God for our freedoms and realize that America is the greatest nation on Earth, because of the Judeo-Christian principles upon which it was founded. Let's pray for a great revival, another Great Awakening for our great nation!  

2 Chronicles 7:14 - "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land." 

March 2021 Celebration & Praise Report

Thank God for what HE accomplished in and through the people of Grace Church in March 2021...

“Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.”  Another month and more blessings to thank the Lord for!  Truly HE is good!

March 2021 was a VERY, VERY BUSY month and certainly one for the books!  There was so much happening, so much excitement and so many new people coming to our services. It is so good to see people returning to church and the church once again reaching out to our community!

REFUEL CONFERENCE seems like so long ago, but on Tuesday, March 2, Grace was privileged to be 1 of 6 sites across the country to host the annual REFUEL Conference, sponsored by Thomas Road Baptist Church and Liberty Church Network. Our folks set the bar high as they joyfully served and provided warm hospitality for our speakers and guests; which included: Jonathan Falwell, Tom Mullins, Jimmy Scroggins, Nathan Cline and others. We challenged by the sermons, pastors were encouraged by the breakout sessions, and we were all blessed to be led in worship by Charles Billingsley. Praise God for allowing us such a wonderful opportunity! 

A MARCH MIRACLE FOR OUR MISSIONARY to Papua New Guinea, Dawn Stuart, as she is experiencing something that only God could do. In this time of COVID, when people are fearful, careful and some churches still closed; Dawn has already raised over 50% of her necessary, monthly financial support to get to PNG! This is definitely the hand of God and you can read more on her website – dawn2png.com. 

LADIES COFFEE CONNECTION was held at the pavilion on Saturday, March 13. It is good to see our ladies’ ministry regrouping and gathering for fellowship again. They have also been enjoying a Tuesday night Bible study and will be gathering for the LifeWay Women’s Simulcast on Saturday, April 17. All ladies are welcome! 

HCA DAY AT GRACE was a big hit again for 2021. It’s always good when we can showcase the school ministry to our church families. Dr. Lawrence challenged us with a stark reminder that the world wants to influence your kids and Satan wants to destroy your family. He challenged parents to make the spiritual training of their children a top priority.

EGGSTRAVAGANZA was held on Saturday, March 20 and was a great success with hundreds of children and dozens of volunteers present to hear the story of Easter, followed by 3 massive egg hunts on our campus! It was good to host a community event again and we extend a special “thank you” to Miss Method and all of our wonderful volunteers who made this possible. 

HAITIAN REVIVAL was held in-person on March 21-28, with Pastor Jean Marc preaching nightly. There was special music and many people returned to the house of God. We rejoice with Pastor Jean Marc and praise God for what HE is doing in our Creole services. 

EMPLOYEE EGG HUNT was a lot of fun for our employees as we gathered in the Auditorium and hunted for 400 eggs. Some had encouraging notes such as, “You are a valued employee,” others said, “Not a winner. Try again,” and many were filled with gift cards used to bless all of employees.

NEW MEMBERS CLASS was held on March 28 with 3 people completing the class and making the decision to become part of our Grace family. 

MOST DIVERSE Private High Schools in America 2020 award was presented to Highlands Christian Academy, as selected by and published in K12.NICHE.COM. What a tribute to Grace’s & Highlands’ commitment to reach our community, while celebrating our oneness in Christ!

HCA RECRUITMENT of faculty and students for the 2021-2022 school year is much ahead of schedule from last year. 

HCA HOSTED “SERVE DAY,” as our students cleaned-up, beautified, and landscaped our campus. Thank you to Mr. Smith for coordinating the event and for the hard work put-in by our students!

PAYTON CAJA, a Senior this year at Highlands Christian Academy, was selected the Class 5A-2A Broward County Player of the Year for soccer. This is an amazing accomplishment and HCA’s first player ever to receive this award.  Payton was also selected to play in the Florida Atlantic Coaches Association Senior All Star game. Congratulations Payton! 

PALM SUNDAY was special at Grace this year. Because we added a Saturday night Easter service, we did not host a Good Friday service. Instead, we held a “remembrance” service on March 28 that used Scripture, video & music to focus our minds on what Jesus suffered, so that we could be saved. We concluded the service with communion. It was a wonderful service!

BEST NEWS OF ALL --

• There were several salvation decisions in our English, Creole & Spanish services this month.
• There were also several salvation decisions in our HCA Chapel services.
• But listen to this… Kealey Wik shared the story of the Resurrection Eggs with her 2^nd grade class at HCA and as a result, 8 students invited Jesus to be their SavioR.

Thank you for your faithful giving, faithful service & faithful participation! The support of our Grace family is vital to our ability to do the work of the ministry. BUT, most of all, let's continually give thanks to God for HIS blessings on our church & school ministries!

The Trials & Sufferings of Jesus

Today is Good Friday, the day we remember the sufferings of Jesus Christ.  

First, in John 14-17, we find what has come to be known as the "Upper Room Discourse." The final words of Jesus in His final hours teaching and training his disciples.  These lessons include:

• The power of the towel, as He washed their feet
• The one who is greatest is the one who serves
• The importance of relationships, love and unity
• We (branches) can do nothing apart from Jesus (the Vine)
• The coming of the Holy Spirit
• His pending sufferings, death and resurrection

After they finished the Last Supper, it was approx 10pm when they left the house located on the SW side of Jerusalem and went across the Kidron Valley to the Mount of Olives, specifically to the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus separated Himself to pray. It was in those hours that Jesus agonized to point of sweating droplets of blood, as He said, "O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou will."

Somewhere around 2am, the soldiers arrived being led by Judas Iscariot. They fell as Jesus spoke the words, "I am He." It is beyond my comprehension "why" they did not leave when they saw the power in this Man.  Jesus eventually surrendered Himself willingly into their custody.

Trial 1 - They took Jesus to Annas the first High Priest appointed by the Romans to deal with religious matters among the Jews. They accused Jesus of blasphemy, but Annas sent Him away.

Trial 2 - They took Jesus to Caiaphas (the current High Priest and son-in-law of Annas) and also before the Sanhedrin. There was no legal basis for Jesus' arrest. The protocols of Jewish law permitting trials only during daylight were ignored; the trial started on the day before an annual Sabbath; the judges themselves brought charges; and no witnesses for the defense were permitted. Luke 22:63 tells us that Jesus was mocked and beaten in the presence of this kangaroo court that could not find Him worthy of death.

Trial/Appearance 3 - They took Jesus to Pilate, but he initially refused to hear the religious matter.

Trial 4 - Pilate sent Jesus to Herod Antipas, who found no fault in Him.

Trial 5 - They took Jesus back to Pilate and changed the charge from blasphemy to treason, forcing the Roman court to hear the case. Luke 23:14-15 tell us that Pilate found no fault in Jesus, neither did Herod, and nothing deserving of death was done by Him. In offering the people a choice, they chose to release the murderer Barabbas, instead of Jesus. 

From there, Matthew 27:27-31 records the action of the Praetorium Guard -  Some of the governor’s soldiers took Jesus into their headquarters and called out the entire regiment. 28 They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him. 29 They wove thorn branches into a crown and put it on his head, and they placed a reed stick in his right hand as a scepter. Then they knelt before him in mockery and taunted, “Hail! King of the Jews!” 30 And they spit on him and grabbed the stick and struck him on the head with it. 31 When they were finally tired of mocking him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him again. Then they led him away to be crucified.

Then came the crucifixion - Luke 23 - As they led Jesus away, a man named Simon, who was from Cyrene, happened to be coming in from the countryside. The soldiers seized him and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus. 27 A large crowd trailed behind, including many grief-stricken women... 32 Two others, both criminals, were led out to be executed with him. 33 When they came to a place called The Skull, they nailed him to the cross. And the criminals were also crucified—one on his right and one on his left. 34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice. 35 The crowd watched and the leaders scoffed. “He saved others,” they said, “let him save himself if he is really God’s Messiah, the Chosen One.” 36 The soldiers mocked him, too, by offering him a drink of sour wine. 37 They called out to him, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!” 38 A sign was fastened above him with these words: “This is the King of the Jews.”... 44 By this time it was about noon, and darkness fell across the whole land until three o’clock. 45 The light from the sun was gone. And suddenly, the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn down the middle. 46 Then Jesus shouted, “Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!” And with those words he breathed his last.

Isaiah reminds us "why" Jesus endured the false accusations, beatings and death - 

Surely He has borne our griefs

And carried our sorrows;
Yet we esteemed Him stricken,
Smitten by God, and afflicted.
5 But He was wounded for our transgressions,
He was bruised for our iniquities;
The chastisement for our peace was upon Him,
And by His stripes we are healed.
6 All we like sheep have gone astray;
We have turned, every one, to his own way;
And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.

On this day called "Good Friday," will you take time to remember what Jesus Christ suffered on your behalf?  Will you remember that while salvation costs you nothing, it cost Jesus Christ everything?!  Take time to day to thank God for His love and the sacrifice made so that we could have our sins forgiven and our relationship with Him restored.

Genuine or Imitation?

We live in a world of fake news, fake body physiques, fake products and even fake identities.  So, my question is, "Do you like knock-offs (imitations) or the real (genuine) things?  

Let's do a quick survey of things you prefer:

• Eggs you shake & pour from a carton or real eggs? 
• Spam or real ham? 
• Miracle Whip or real mayonnaise? 
• Creme Betweens or real Oreos?
• Knock-off apparel, footwear, handbags, electronics; or the real thing?  Just imagine telling someone about your beautiful new "genuine imitation" leather/fur coat!

Too often, we settle for imitations, rather than striving for real aspects that strengthen and grow our marriages, friendships and even work relationships. Peter challenges Christ-followers to "up their game" and stop settling for cheap imitations such as...

• Manipulation is a cheap imitation for humility
• Outward appeal is an imitation for inward beauty
• Knowing right is a cheap imitation for doing right
• Providing a living is a cheap imitation for sharing a life
• Leverage is a cheap imitation for leading
• Jealousy is a cheap imitation for honor
• Sex is a cheap imitation for love
• Selfishness is a cheap imitation for sharing
• Security is a cheap imitation for satisfaction.
• Religion is a cheap imitation for a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Peter challenges wives, husbands, and believers in general to raise the bar and stop "settling."  If we settle for imitations, we will find our relationships defined by division, irritation, resentment and bitterness. As believers, we should strive to be real and show others the joy in serving Jesus with a pure heart that wants to give God our best.

In today's world filled with cheap, fake, imitations; let's determine to be real followers of Jesus Christ!

February 2021 - Celebration & Praise Report

February was an amazing month at Grace!!!  I just have to give praise to God and tell you what HE has done!!

Did you grow-up in or ever attend a church that sang the Doxology?  The Doxology is a short hymn-like chorus that gives praise to God. In years past, churches of various denominations would conclude their services by singing it. Listen to the words:

        Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow

        Praise Him, all creatures here below

        Praise Him above, ye heavenly host

        Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost

That is exactly what I want to do... I want to give praise to God for the blessings HE brought to and through the ministries of Grace Church and Highlands Christian Academy during February 2021.

First, as you know, February is known as the “Love Month;” so Grace capitalized on that theme:

• Pastor Gary has been preaching through a marriage series titled, “LORD of the Rings” and offering biblical counsel for Christian marriages.
• On Sunday, Feb. 14, couples stood across our congregation and renewed their marriage vows. COVID has added much stress to marriage, but with a commitment to Christ and to each other, we are confident that Christian marriages can weather the storms of life.

Other “Love” opportunities were seen each Sunday in February:

• Feb. 7 - we loved-on our community – and collected food, clothing & toiletry items for “The Lord’s Gift House,” a ministry to the homeless in our community.
• Feb. 14 – we loved-on our spouse, family & widows in our congregation.
• Feb. 21 – we loved-on each other, as our Grace family gathered around fire pits; cooked hotdogs and enjoyed making s’mores under the stars.
• Feb. 28 – we loved others as we distributed bread and pastries to the homeless, our friends, and our neighbors. Each loaf/box had a Gospel tract telling people about the Bread of Life.

February also brought us a feeling of some normalcy as we hosted some larger “events.”

• Our children are now meeting in-person and started a new Bible program titled, “Eat this Book.” Dozens of children are attending in-person and Miss Julie is also making the program available online.
• Steve Merritt brought a trio from FBC of Ft. Lauderdale that blessed our church family. We saw many guests in attendance and had our largest 1^st service attendance since the pandemic started.
• Grace also hosted a Winter Bible Conference, which included:
  • Guy Melton from Oasis Church in Pembroke Pines, FL
  • Chris Lane from First Priority of South Florida
  • Michael Chin Quee from Food for the Poor

Each of these men challenged us to look past the pandemic and “renew our passion” to reach people in new, creative and personal ways with good news of the life-changing Gospel.

“Praise God from Whom all blessings flow” for the people who are were saved, baptized, returned to worship and were added to the Grace Church family in the month of February!

We also experienced wonderful blessings in our school ministry - Highlands Christian Academy.

We have truly been blessed under the leadership of Dr. Steve Lawrence and God is blessing us with new leadership for our 2021-2022 school year:

• Mr. Larry Smith with take the reins as our new Head of School
• Mr. Bill Canning will become our new Upper School Principal
• We are also blessed to be adding several new faculty to our staff, which will allow us to bring back several elective classes
  
• In addition, budgeting and recruiting are in warp-speed for next year and look forward to going post-pandemic and seeming growth and enhancements in every area of HCA.

Another BIG achievement was HCA’s celebration of 100 Days of School!

• While many schools have remained closed or online only, HCA started meeting in-person back in August. Our thanks to Dr. Lawrence for his courageous leadership and also to Governor DeSantis for keeping Florida open.

We also want to congratulate our Knights Varsity Boys Soccer Team as the Regional Runners-Up! They had a great season under the leadership of Coach Davidson Loristan and we are so proud of our boys’ performance during this difficult year. We also want to congratulate HCA Senior, Payton Caja, who was selected to the Atlantic Coaches Association Senior All-Star Game on March 13 at Bryant Stadium in Lakeland, FL.

We have so much to celebrate & praise God for!  As Ed Stetzer stated, “The moment we are in; does not pause the mission we are on.” The ministries of Grace Church continue strong and we thank God for protecting us during the pandemic and blessing our efforts to make HIM known across our community!

How to Fight Right

Marriage, like any other relationship, takes work and the road we travel is not always (if ever) easy. There are unexpected twists, unforeseen turns, slippery slopes, and even some very rocky terrain. Conflicts can make us sharper and they are sure to occur when two individuals have differing opinions. Sadly, we live in a world that does not teach conflict resolution. We find ourselves in a world that wants to "cancel" anyone who has a differing opinion. What happened to listening, gleaning, hearing-out, compromising, or coming to a win-win?

As Christ-followers, we follow the Bible as our model for conflict resolution. These biblical principles work and will make our marriages, neighborhoods, and workplaces better; IF we choose to implement them into our various relationships. Allow me to list a few below:

1. BE HONEST & RESPECTFUL

Honesty, integrity & respect are building blocks for relationships.  Dishonesty and a lack of respect will certainly drive a wedge in any relationship. Tell the truth, be transparent, and show respect; even when you disagree with someone -- especially your spouse.

Eph 4:25- Therefore, putting away lying, "Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor," for we are members of one another.

2. CHOOSE THE RIGHT WEAPONS

There are weapons for "hand-to-hand" combat (swords, bayonets, etc.); weapons of warfare (bombs, missiles, etc.); and spiritual weapons (Armor of God - Ephesians 6:10-18). In relationship conflicts, we must lay down the worldly "offensive" weapons and pickup the spiritual weapons. Too often, we forget who the real enemy is. Satan wants to steal, kill & destroy... and this includes your marriage & family.

Eph 4:26 - Be angry, and do not sin…  (guard your heart & actions)

Prov 18:14 - The spirit of a man will sustain him in sickness, But who can bear a broken spirit?  (Don't destroy the spirit of those you love, as it will take MUCH time to rebuild.)

3. USE STRATEGIC TIMING

You've heard the statement that "timing is everything." Many fights are started because of bad timing (i.e. - in the last 2 minutes of the Super Bowl, etc.). Consider timing comments & conversations so you don't provoke a fight; BUT also consider the right timing to END the fight. Do not allow disagreements to go on and on. In fact, the Bible states that the matter should be settled before you go to bed. 

  

Eph 4:26-27 - …Do not let the sun go down on your wrath, 27 nor give place to the devil.

4. RESOLVE & RESTORE

If a conflict ensues because of something you did, then fix it! Repent, restore, make restitution, etc. Confess your sin, come clean about your actions, own the problem you created. I'll never forget the lesson my dad taught me about confession, after breaking the neighbor's window with a baseball and then working to replace it. A broken window is easy to replace, but a broken spirit is MUCH more difficult. Take the time to heal the hurt and restore the relationship.

Prov. 18:14 - ...who can bear a broken spirit

Prov. 18:19 - A brother (or spouse) offended is harder to win than a strong city, and contentions are like bars of a castle.

5. CHOOSE YOUR WORDS WISELY

It is difficult to control our tongue, BUT it is even more difficult when you are angry.  Remember the statement, "Keep your words sweet, as you might have to eat them."  Jesus experienced righteous indignation with the money changers in the temple, but there is no record of him cussing, cursing or embarrassing Himself with careless words. He turned many people off by His positions, but never due to His disposition.

Eph 4:29-30 - Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 

6. FIGHT PRIVATELY, NOT PUBLICLY

The Bible is very clear that disagreements should be settled 1-to-1. We are not to make a matter public, unless it is unconfessed sin and it should be brought before the church with a heavy heart and for the purpose of restoration. In today's world of keyboard cowards, when people post every grievance on the internet; we as Christ-followers should NEVER be guilty of such actions. Keep our disagreements private and seek to resolve them privately.

Matt. 18:15 - Moreover, if your brother (or spouse) sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone... 

Eph 4:31 - Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice.

7. BANDAGE THE WOUNDS

In every fight, someone gets wounded. The frequently forgotten bandage that will heal almost all emotional wounds is forgiveness. It's too bad that the Church is more known for being "judgmental" rather than being "forgiving." Let strive for all of our relationship disputes to end with forgiveness.

Eph 4:32 - And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave you.

It is important to understand that disagreements are a normal part of any marriage and any human relationship. Disagreements can be opportunities for people to learn from each other and come to a compromise that strengthens their relationship. So, learn to "fight right" and recognize Satan as the real enemy... not your spouse!

Commitment is the Key

 

It is both sad and humorous realizing how uncomfortable people get when you mention the word "commitment;" but commitment is required in successful careers, life endeavors, spirituality/faith and even marriage. If you ask a couple who has been married 50+ years, "What is the key to a long marriage?" They will likely reply with the word "commitment."

The Bible speaks of commitment in many passages. Consider the instructions to "...have no other gods before ME," to "be doers of the Word and not hearers only," to "not go after other gods," to "diligently keep the commandments of the LORD your God," and for "husbands to love their wife as God loves HIS Church."

Let me offer 4 Conditions that Weaken Commitments:

1. Determining morality by the majority -- 

The majority of Israelites wanted to return to Egypt; the majority of people felt comfortable living in the sinful society of Sodom & Gomorrah; the majority chose not to go into the ark & died; the majority voted to crucify Jesus. Majorities are wrong the majority of the time; because they operate based on popular "opinion" and usually follow the path of least resistance. Commitments based on comforts are weak.

2. Changing your theology, rather than your lifestyle -- 

Rather than aligning their lifestyle with the teachings of Scripture, people will often choose to change churches, denominations or counselors; in search of someone who will accept & condone their sinful behavior. Remember, those who truly love you will speak truth into your life; not merely tickle your ears. Having a weak theology results in weak commitments.

3. Assuming a delay in consequences equals God's approval -- Eccl. 8:11 TLB

Quote from John Fisher -- "...if a dog having a great stone bound about his neck is cast down from a high tower, he feels no weight of that stone, as long as he is falling down; but when he is once fallen to the ground, he is burst all to pieces by that weight." Sin is fun for a season; but "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that will he also reap." - Gal 6:6-7. Assuming that God would EVER condone sinful behavior certainly reveals a weak commitment toward spiritual maturity.

4. Becoming tolerant of sin --

The way that Christians succumb to sin, is similar to the proverbial frog that gets boiled in the kettle. Sin takes over gradually and we often don't even realize it, until it is too late. It only takes a little leaven to ruin the whole loaf of bread (Gal. 5:9). Being tolerant of sin in our lives is a symptom of a weak level of commitment.

Now, let me offer 4 Principles that Strengthen Commitments (Especially as it relates to marriage):

1. Understand that conflicts are part of marriage --

1 Cor. 7:28b NIV - "...but those who marry will face many troubles in this life..." Too often, couples try to avoid conflict, rather than learning how to resolve conflicts. Learning to listen to and respect differing opinions is one of the greatest ways to gain knowledge and one of the lost arts in today's "cancel culture" movement.

2. Working through is better than walking out -- 

1 Cor. 7:27 NIV - "Are you married? Do not seek a divorce." Walking out is easy, but the baggage follows you out the door and into the next relationship. Working things through takes much more work, but it is much more beneficial and satisfying in the long run.

3. Rights are relinquished at the marriage altar --

1 Cor. 7:4 and Phil 2:3-4 reveal that couples give-up their rights, when they enter the covenant relationship of marriage. Selfishness is most often the root cause of broken relationships and selflessness is most often the key to marriages surviving for the long-haul.

4. Choose holiness over happiness -- 

Nowhere in the Bible does God command us to be happy, but HE does instruct us to be holy. In general, those who pursue holiness will usually find happiness is a natural benefit of living in obedience to God's commands.

After reading these principles based on Scripture and realizing that there are many, many, many more where those came from; let's "commit" to being fully-devoted followers of Jesus and fully-devoted partners in our marriage. Let's love our spouse, the way that Christ loves HIS Church.

Habits of Happy Hubbies

The COVID-19 pandemic is certainly impacting people physically, but it also impacting people emotionally. The statistics are showing that interest & inquiries for divorce are up 34% from the the same quarter of the previous year. 20% of couples married 5 months or less sought divorce, compared to 11% in 2019. Some are estimating that divorce rates will continue to rise as quarantines and work-from-home situations continue. 

So, I want to offer 12 "Habits of Happy Hubbies" that can be helpful to all married couples:

1. EMBRACE YOUR SEASON

Stop looking ahead or looking back. Embrace your present season and make the most of every moment. 

2. COMMUNICATE KINDLY

Sticks and stone's can break bones AND words can hurt very deeply! Spouses often say things to each other that they would never say to their employer, pastor or even their friends. Choose your words wisely.

Prov. 25:11-5 - A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.

3.  LIVE WITHIN YOUR MEANS 

Too many marriages end due to the fighting caused by poor financial decisions. Couples MUST learn to live within their means, pay cash, build credit, save and set goals. While stuck in the house, consider taking a Dave Ramsey course online.

Eccl. 5:10 NLT - Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness! 

Matt. 6:24  - No man can serve two masters… you cannot serve God and money. 

4. COMPLIMENT; DON’T CRITICIZE 

      No one likes to be criticized. Continual criticism has a devastating effect on a marriage. 

1 Thess 5:11 NIV - Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 

Eph. 4:29 - Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.

5.  CULTIVATE SPIRITUAL GROWTH

Couples should find ways to worship, serve, pray, study and grow together!

Heb. 10:24 – And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works. 

6.   LIVE IN LOVE

      Look at this verse, as it reveals what true love looks like and should be the goal in every Christian marriage.

1 Cor. 13:4-7 - Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” 

7.   GIVE PREFERENCE 

Preferring your spouse is a simple way to show your care. Selfishness will destroy a marriage, while selflessness will deepen the love relationship.

Phil 2:3-4 - Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. ⁴ Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. 

8.   GIVE HONOR

Honor is defined as giving the highest respect or granting esteem. Spouses should honor one another; and look at the last part of the verse -- if we fail to honor our spouse... our prayers could be hindered!

1 Peter 3:7 - Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.  

9.   DRESS FOR SUCCESS

      During this time, of quarantine and working at home, so many people have stopped dressing-up for work. Don't forget that your spouse deserves to see you at your best. Practice personal hygiene, shave, fix your hair, put away the sweat pants, and ladies, feel free to wear some make-up while work from home.

10.  NURTURE INTIMACY

Intimacy goes far beyond just the physical relationship in marriage. Strive to cultivate spiritual and emotional intimacy in your marriage.

Heb 13:4 - Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled…  Sadly, this is the only verse some men ever memorize! :)  

11.  SHARE THE LOAD 

Working from home or being quarantined obviously increases the chores around the house. Share the load, pitch-in, and help your spouse. Those acts of kindness usually pay-off BIG! Also, during this time of anxiety, layoffs, financial uncertainty; share openly and bear each others burdens.

Gal. 6:2 - Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. 

12.  RESOLVE CONFLICTS QUICKLY 

Holding onto anger NEVER ends well. No one wins -- everyone loses!  Settle the matter quickly and try to do so before going to bed. No sense losing a night's sleep and carrying conflict over to the next day.

Eph. 4:26-27 - Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, ²⁷ nor give place to the devil.

ULTIMATE GOAL

Eph. 5:24-28 - As the church submits to Christ, so you wives should submit to your husbands in everything.25 For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her 26 to make her holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God’s word. 27 He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish. Instead, she will be holy and without fault. 28 In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as they love their own bodies. For a man who loves his wife actually shows love for himself.