Hope in Christ for those hurt by Divorce

Divorce is never God's desire. But it is not the unpardonable sin. Sometimes not a sin. Always a by-product of someone's sin. Never without consequence. No one's choice however big or small ever is. God is bigger than anyone's sin. His grace sufficient. His mercy more than adequate to cover the sin of all who humbly bow before His throne penitent, trusting in Christ's righteousness and trading in their filthy rags. Grace, truth, peace and life for the humble. The Sovereign Savior's kindness overcomes all obstacles and heals all wounds.  Jesus loves you!

Thoughts about Divorce

We have all been touched, impacted and influenced by divorce. We have all been hurt by it.  We have all been shocked by it. Surprised. We are all working through the damage divorce has done.   Sometimes it seems the pain won't end. Sometimes as if the memories will never fade. Arguments. Division. Contention.  Jesus arrived on the scene at a time when people Had given up on their hope of true righteousness. .  Why is it important to know what God wants?  Because He has a timeless story, answers to our deepest problems and needs.  He created a system that fits.  Male and female. He made them for Himself and for each other. Corresponding to each other. They fit. Physically. Emotionally. Intellectually. Spiritually. To glorify God in their union.  But...the glory of God was marred by sin. The Fall.  You need love.  You need companionship.  You need someone to team with.  Someone to share your life with.  Your deepest pains. Joys. Dreams. Aspirations.  If God grants in grace, He leads you to each other. In His time. You cherish her. You can't believe He brought him to your life.  Then one day you realize things have eroded. Deteriorated. Rusted. Stuck. Love isn't evident. Animosity is present. And you see their many sins and faults as much greater than yours.  You know, I have never had a couple who ate considering divorce, hurtling towards a crash, be broken and contrite over their sinfulness. They are too fixated on pointing the finger at their spouse.

Marriage and Divorce

Is it a sin to be divorced? It is the result of someone's sin.  There are hardly if ever 100% innocent parties.  Divorce is not God's plan.  Divorce is not God-pleasing.  Divorce separates what God puts together.  Marriage is God's design. From beginning.  Marriage is God's desire. For His glory.  Marriage is meant to be lifelong.  Jesus loves you!

Don't Sever What God Unites

You hear it at the end of most weddings, the familiar words: "Those whom God has joined together, let no one separate." When I was much younger I thought that meant that a third party was not to come in and divide a marriage. I came to realize later that those words are directed to the husband and wife first. They are not to break their covenant and dissolve their union.

Amazing Love: The Church of Christ

I have come to love Matthew chapter 18 more than ever recently. It is now so much more than the chapter church discipline is found.
It is a picture, in questions, answers and parables of God's amazing love in Christ at work in and through Christ's covenant community.

The gist of Matthew is that God wants Christians to humbly trust Jesus, joyfully care for others, and mercifully forgive offenses; so that Christ's Church will grow.

As God's elect do this, God is glorified, believers are built up, and people see Jesus. The Kingdom of God grows like a weed the world can't pull up. And in its leaves is healing for the nations. Gospel truth lived out in the midst of pagan lies; overcoming every enemy and obstacle. Christ's Church prevails when Christ's people yield to Him; and the rulership of Christ spreads like a wildfire that will not be put out; goes viral and infects the world with good grace.

And all believers need to do is trust Jesus to live His life in and through them, yielded children, surrendered to His desires and plan, laying aside every encumbrance and sin and fixing their believing eyes on Jesus, the Captain of their souls and Master of their fate.