...so many questions...so many concerns.  Should I?  Should I not?  What is best for the kids?  How does one know whether to pursue a divorce or not?

If these are the kinds of questions going through your mind please CLICK HERE and take time to read this online booklet published by Focus on the Family.  It contains valuable information to consider.  And if still in doubt, give me a call - even if its for a one time consultation.  I will pray and seek God's direction with you as we talk!

(A series based on the book Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas)

I have a friend who has gone through severe hardships in life, far greater than I ever have. Yet every time he calls – he speaks blessings into my life; he quotes scriptures that uplift me. I can think of several others whom I deeply love and appreciate in similar ways – they too have gone through very difficult times. Whereas many who go through the fire become bitter, others become better… better people, better friends, better lovers of those around them. It convicts me, challenges me, and gives me hope all at the same time.

Marriage can be one of the most challenging arenas from which bitterness or “betterness” comes forth.

I Peter 3: 7 “Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.”

It has often been said that prayer is essential to experiencing a great marriage. Whereas no doubt this is true, Gary Thomas suggests another perspective that is very worth noting in the chapter: “Good Marriage Fosters Good Prayer.”In referencing the scripture above he notes the following connection - if the husband does well in the way he treats his wife, he can expect more fully to see God work through his prayers. And otherwise NOT!

In the opening lines of the old war movie Apocalypse Now, a soldier is seen waking up in his hotel room struck by the realization that it’s the beginning of another day without a military assignment.  He shouts in great frustration, “Every day without mission I grow weaker; every day the enemy crouches in the bush, he grows stronger!”

Mission is central to remaining...

Ron and Cindy were sitting in my office arguing right in front of me.  Neither were really listening to the other, but only trying to get their own point across.  This is not wholly unusual – it occurs quite frequently in fact.  Usually I let it go on for a bit so I can observe how the couple communicates especially in times of conflict.  After about five minutes I stopped them and suggested they try something different since they obviously were going nowhere very quickly.  Instead of simply reacting to each other, defending their position, and pointing out where the other is wrong, I suggested they...