Many years ago when my marriage was much younger than it is now, I distinctly remember being convicted in the form of a compliment. It was after church when I was cleaning up from fellowship a well regarded gentleman who was watching me and another woman said this: "May God bless James, Blank and Blank. They've received a special blessing by being married to such strong assertive women."
What? I screamed in my heart. I don't remember what I did to be called out but the horror that I felt at that moment spread across my face like butter on hot toast. My friend, whose husband was one of those named by this man, turned to me and said, "Don't be so rigid Celi, it was a compliment!" She laughed, flipped her hair and walked off. My heart dropped. Is this how those outside my own home see me?
Later on, I was introduced to a great book called Created to Be His Help Meet by Debi Pearl. Since then I have read it several times and I always am confronted with something new. Doug Phillips has a great sermon in regards to those of us "strong and assertive" women entitled "A Wise Woman's Guide to Blessing Her Husband's Vision" Another must for any wife to have in her CD collection.
Since then James has assured me that I have taken great strides and he is thankful for it. I am thankful for that gentleman to point out something obvious to others but oblivious to me.
Marriage is so much more than anything anyone can ever see, hear or gasp! even feel. It is far greater than any intention or hope or dream or dance that anybody can ever anticipate. A few days ago while on a walk I was listening to a great sermon by Voddie Baucham called Gospel Healing for Hurting Marriages. It was amazing. I would like to share it with you. This sermon is a must for anyone married regardless of the state of it. It is a great reminder of the tending a marriage needs in order to fulfill its purpose as the perfect example of Christ and His Church.
Here is a link. Please listen. You won't regret it:
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=5409160500
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