Dear Ones,

Hope you have a day full of peace and hope. A busy day as I plan  to bake cookies, go to Aldi’s, Exercise class, having grandson for lunch, and going to craft time and Bible study.

Devotions from Judy’s heart

There are many myths that circulate today about marriage and many of them are negative and so untrue. I recently read a review by Katelyn Walls Shelton from Yale Divinity School, who interviewed Brad Wilcox, the professor of sociology who wrote, “Get Married: Why Americans Must Defy the Elites, Forge Strong Families and Save Civilization.” Our culture tries to convey that making money and living for yourself and staying single without kids is a recipe for happiness, but they are so wrong, and statistics verify this. In fact, couples who know the Lord are less likely to end up divorced and are happier in their marriages and more likely to have children who are flourishing.

Wilcox said faith is the biggest factor and women who attend church are 50% less likely to divorce and men who are religious are more likely to protect their marriages and refrain from pornography and be attentive to their wives. Even though the secular media will say that progress is made in “family diversity”, but truth be told, children thrive in marriages between their biological parents. The family is best when it is a display of Christ and His church that is faithful, loving and long-suffering. (Eph. 5)

I want to share 5 pillars that Wilcox gives to support marriages that are successful. They are, “communion between the couple that emphasizes oneness over the individual, prioritization for childrearing and family activities, stubborn commitment to fidelity and the longevity of the marriage, intermingles finances and co-ownership of assets and participation in communities (like the church) that affirms and supports marriage.” Isn’t that just what the church teaches, and the data is encouraging.

Let us not fall for all the misinformation but know that faithful Christian marriages are happier and stronger and produce more children who are successful and thrive.

Challenge for today: Work at the 5 pillars in our own marriage and encourage other couples in applying God’s principles.                                                                                     Blessings on your day and prayers and love, Judy