Christian Writers Circle

Power to be Steadfast
Growing Together in Love
by Brenda D. Flowers

Col. 3:12-15 NKJV  Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all of these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. . . .

On June 17th, my husband, Eric, and I celebrated our 43rd wedding anniversary. Judy, co-writer and dear sister in the Lord, recently celebrated her 55th anniversary with her beloved Jack. Our marriages have lasted through the power of God’s grace and through our choice to remain steadfast, trusting God’s faithfulness to complete what he began in us when we said our marriage vows. God has been good to us!

Have there been testings along the way?

Yes, but there also has been growth through these times of challenge.Sometimes, it seems even more testing comes to those who profess to be Christians.

 I believe God allows testing to refine us in our faith.

When we profess our faith in Christ, we are entrusted with God’s good news, His mysteries.

Each of us as followers of Christ, married or not, is given a responsibility to steward the gospel message.

Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful. 1 Corinthians. 4:1-2 (NKJV)

Marriage is often God’s refinery, a place of preparation and purpose. It is in marriage and in church fellowship, we learn to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.  In Ephesians 5,  we can read more about the powerful mystery of marriage.

God is faithful and He gives us the steadfast power to be faithful in our marriages. Those who are led to marry are given the great responsibility to be a picture of unity, displaying the unity of Christ and His body, a picture of love in action.

Thankfully, God provides the power for us to love as only He can, fulfilling His great commandment.

If any of you reading this post are struggling in your marriage or in your daily walk, come to the One who can help you. Jesus is faithful and true. He will give you the wisdom and strength to carry-on, as you put your trust in Him.
We can be faithful to our  marriage vows and to our calling with Christ’s help.

Reflection and Prayer

May we remember to acknowledge the One who gives us strength to be steadfast, abounding in love. We enter His presence with thanksgiving and praise.

Lord, thank you for what you have taught me in my marriage and in the observation of strong Christian marriages.

 I want to love everyday like You love. May I be sensitive to Your guidance as I yield my will to Your will.

In Your mighty name, Jesus, I pray.