If you haven’t obtained your copy of this issue of the Visionary, “do not pass GO or collect your $200” until you do. This is the first “Faithfulness in Marriage” issue and it’s packed full of good stuff. The pastoral staff had the privilege of interviewing the couples with “long” marriages in the church and it was a delight to hear their stories as they reminisced about their journey together.
Of special interest is Craig Bradenbaugh’s article, “Let the Redeemed of the Lord…Say So!” He gives both he and his wife Maria’s testimonies of faith and marriage. Wonderful counsel throughout! I’m including a portion here because it’s not to be missed but read the full version for yourself:
So what is a key to Faithfulness in marriage? I’m going to use a word that is not very well understood today, “duty.” It is a hard thing to learn duty and commitment in our marriage because it goes against our sin nature. A “Me first” attitude, “He or she is not meeting my needs,” etc. God has given us His word, good examples from others, good pastors, and especially His providence, always working in our lives. Do you ever struggle with your relationship with your spouse? Praise God, He is blessing you! He is teaching you, listen to Him, pray about it and examine your own behavior. First say, “Thank you Lord for…” don’t run from it, don’t argue, don’t push your sinful self-will, don’t leave, don’t clam up, and don’t stay angry, give up your will for the Lord’s. He is knocking the rough edges off of you and your spouse. This is your sanctification.
It’s hard to do better than that. You’ll be blessed by the rest as well. Don’t miss the article or issue (The Visionary). It’s your culture and your story, too.
Scotty is a native of Santa Anna, Texas. He graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1994 and completed his Masters of Divinity at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in 2005. Scotty’s Air Force service of eleven years included time as a Security Forces Officer protecting nuclear weapons and also instructing at Officer Training School before being called into pastoral ministry. He and his wife Kerry are parents of three children, Clayton, Avery, and Grace.
- The Christmas Story in John’s Gospel - December 23, 2020
- Communication in Marriage - November 3, 2020
- Aaron Halbert – Missionary to Honduras - March 31, 2017
