Questions and Answers

This is really not a wise decision and is not the best God has in store for our lives. It’s so much better to take what God had in mind (waiting to come together until marriage) and apply it freely and lovingly than to see how far we can push the boundary of that instruction without sinning. It’s also not wise to put ourselves in a position where we could easily be tempted to compromise our values, or where even the appearance of how we’re living could cause others to stumble. We must ask ourselves what will bring God more glory.

Category: Dating No Comments.

It is very honorable to save oneself sexually for marriage and to desire the same thing out of our future spouse. This is really God’s plan - that sex take place only in the marriage relationship, and we shouldn’t feel guilty for desiring that for our marriage. 
Depending on personal values, it may not be a negotiable factor to date someone who has previously had sex. This is a personal decision, and one that needs to be prayerfully considered.  But if this is something that is a strong personal value, and will be a stumbling block if not held to, then it should be honored.
However, it’s important to recognize that if someone has had sex outside of marriage, and has truly repented and asked God for forgiveness, they are washed clean in God’s eyes. If that person marries, God does not honor that marriage less, or “look down on it” because of a past sin. We must be careful to not apply labels on others or cast judgment.  God’s grace and love covers that and we have all sinned and fall short of God’s glorious standard (Romans 3:23).

Category: Dating No Comments.

This will eventually reveal itself through the fruit in one’s life.  (Matthew 7:15-16) While we all make mistakes from time to time, through Godly discernment and guidance of the Holy Spirit, it can be evident if one is putting God first in their lives or not.  Make allowance for people’s faults, (Colossians 3:13) but if there’s something that needs to be revealed, ask that God reveal it.

Category: Dating No Comments.

This is not God’s best for our lives and the direction this leads in is not a good one. (Matthew 5:28) The eyes are the window to the soul and if we are indulging a lustful eye, we’re not honoring God or our spouse. We must guard our hearts against any opportunity to fall into sin. (Proverbs 4:23) This is a dangerous sin we can easily deceive ourselves into justifying as harmless.  The good news is, God can help us bring this under submission.  If this is an area you’re struggling in, bring it to God in prayer and He will help you when you’re tempted.

Category: Marriage No Comments.

Submission is truly a matter of choice, very similar to forgiveness. Just like Jesus extended His love towards us while we were yet sinners, (Romans 5:8) submission is extended even if not deserved and not earned.  It is through our Godly behavior that others can see the love of Christ living through us. Continue praying and asking God for the grace to walk in love while extending honor and submission and don’t grow weary in well doing, this brings God glory.

Category: Marriage No Comments.

A relationship can definitely be restored after adultery, if there is true repentance and change in behavior. With God all things are possible, and it is very possible for God to heal the wounds from this and restore trust, love and unity in the relationship. However, a foundation of true forgiveness and seeking God in the relationship must be in place for it to work.
There is a difference between an act of adultery and someone who is an adulterer. Careful prayer and guidance should be sought after when multiple affairs have occurred.

Category: Marriage No Comments.