Happy Easter everyone! He loves us! :-)
~ Melina xo
Showing posts with label Scripture. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Scripture. Show all posts
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Scripture: Live a Life of Love
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. ~Ephesians 5:1-2
I love this chapter of Ephesians because of the directions it gives to us on living as husbands and wives as Christians. This line for today starts it all off telling us to be imitators of God. My favorite part is when it says to "live a life of love". The perfect piece of advice for our marriages and our lives. And of course, not the giddy, happy, nothing-can-go-wrong love, but the love of patience, selflessness and without condition. The way that Christ loves us.
Happy Sunday everyone!
~Melina :-)
Friday, January 27, 2012
Bride's Prayer: I'm Shallow!
Are you always complaining about the details? Snapping at your family and friends all the time? Being told to stop being Bridezilla? Is all you care about at this point what the wedding will look like and what people are going to leave talking about? Feeling like you forgot what this whole thing is all about?
If all you are thinking about is getting the title of the best wedding anyone has ever been to, then maybe it is time to think about your priorities. It isn't what's on the outside but what's on the inside right? We have heard that one since we were little kids, lol. But it is different when planning a wedding.
Sometimes things in life bring us to the point where we don't recognize ourselves and it is important to take the time to give yourself reset button time.
No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money. - Matthew 6:24
The big message here is that you cannot serve two masters. In your case, you cannot be a servant of God and be a Bridezilla falling to the grasp of the glitter and lace gods. When you lose sight of God and begin to live life for other things, you are serving a different master.
When you feel the point of exploding, taking it out on some poor innocent soul of your bridal party, take a moment to stop. Pray. Go somewhere by yourself and pray. Even if it is the bathroom.
Allow your heart to pause for a moment and let God fill it instead of the material world you are getting lost in.
If all you are thinking about is getting the title of the best wedding anyone has ever been to, then maybe it is time to think about your priorities. It isn't what's on the outside but what's on the inside right? We have heard that one since we were little kids, lol. But it is different when planning a wedding.
Sometimes things in life bring us to the point where we don't recognize ourselves and it is important to take the time to give yourself reset button time.
No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money. - Matthew 6:24
The big message here is that you cannot serve two masters. In your case, you cannot be a servant of God and be a Bridezilla falling to the grasp of the glitter and lace gods. When you lose sight of God and begin to live life for other things, you are serving a different master.
When you feel the point of exploding, taking it out on some poor innocent soul of your bridal party, take a moment to stop. Pray. Go somewhere by yourself and pray. Even if it is the bathroom.
Allow your heart to pause for a moment and let God fill it instead of the material world you are getting lost in.
The Prayer:
Give me the patience to be able to slow down and think about you and the blessings you have given me. Help me to shift my strong desires of perfection in the material and focus instead on Your Love and the real meaning behind my wedding. In my quiet times, clear my head and grab me by the heart. I thank you for my blessings and help me to not lose sight of that.
Got a Bride's Prayer you'd like to see? Check out the Bride's Prayer for past prayers and to request your own anonymously.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Marriage Monday: Be an Example
Weeks ago I started the Fifth Section of the Marriage Preparation & Improvement titled "Loving One Another". Today I'll share my thoughts on the next part that looks at how Love requires giving and self-sacrifice.
Since this series is going to be a sort of "column" of my ramblings on marriage as a newlywed trying to figure out how to best live a Christ-centered marriage that isn't always perfect, I want to share something from this study that resonated with me. Everything in the study is good and all, but it is the little snippets that stand out that are the ones God uses to talk to us. Again, I am terrified to be transparent, but if God uses me to touch even one person, then I won't fear.
Here is the part that stood out to me this week:
Source: http://www.gospelway.com/family/marriage-love.php
I have a confession.
This past Sunday morning at 10:30 am I was sleeping in my bed.
That's right. I didn't go to church. In fact, if you asked my husband and I what church we frequented, we couldn't tell you.
There, it's out there now.
My husband and I have fights and have moments as any couple would but we don't have such dire problems that are worth raising red flags for, thank God. However, this lack of priority to get to the community of the church is something that can cause problems because there is always that threat of losing sight of God. You are who you hang out with right? If we aren't around other Christians, then, yeah, I'm going to be concerned. A marriage without God is playing with the fate of being a statistic.
Maybe some of you know or not, but my husband is Catholic and I was a Baptist in high school, turned non-denominational Christian in college. Going to each other's churches just wasn't our thing and before getting married it was an issue trying to decide where we would go and what our kids would be.
When I was in college I attended Lifechurch.tv much to the dismay of my husband who could never comprehend the idea of hearing a sermon from a pastor on a large screen. But if you were to hear a sermon from Pastor Craig, you would love it too! It was from listening to Pastor Craig that I learned that it isn't about me. That we are all the church as Christians no matter the denomination. I decided that the Catholic Church would be our church so that the hubs and I wouldn't have to argue about it anymore. (Marriage is compromise right? Someone had to give! lol)
But then our lives started with the military taking over. In Virginia, my husband endured high physical stress, so the idea of getting up on Sunday morning for him wasn't happening. Now here in Florida, countless hours of studying for flight school when he absolutely cannot fail a test or he loses his career weighs on him. I pray for him everyday to have the strength for it all but I can't get him up on Sunday morning for anything.
Don't take this as me blaming him. I'm to blame because I'm not going to be the one who goes to mass by myself. I am intimidated by the Catholic church because all I can remember from it is from when I was maybe 7 years old. All through High School and College I would go by myself to church, but it wasn't Catholic church. If he doesn't go with me, I don't go. It is awkward enough being the only one sitting down when everyone gets up for the bread and wine. Not to mention my lack of fire and feeling lost the past couple months hasn't helped in me wanting to get up on Sunday morning either. :-/
Thankfully Lifechurch has online services that I "attend" but we all know that it isn't the same as being among other believers in a face-to-face environment. I have been doing a daily devotional on my phone and I always get scripture sent to my email daily and it is a funny thing how they are all relating lately! It is as if the moment God broke His silence to me, he now won't stop talking! Every day since last week has been a lot of "I hear you God" and "Ah! Hah! I got You Lord!" Even the songs on the Christian radio and on Pandora have seemed to be around the same memo that God wants to drill in my head. Don't you love when that happens? When God is loud and clear? Especially when He had been silent!
I guess I have to go back to Pastor Craig's message when he said that it wasn't about me. That it's about God. I must set the example and overcome my fears and nerves. I need to suck it up and get in that car.
Since this series is going to be a sort of "column" of my ramblings on marriage as a newlywed trying to figure out how to best live a Christ-centered marriage that isn't always perfect, I want to share something from this study that resonated with me. Everything in the study is good and all, but it is the little snippets that stand out that are the ones God uses to talk to us. Again, I am terrified to be transparent, but if God uses me to touch even one person, then I won't fear.
Here is the part that stood out to me this week:
If you are having problems in your marriage, do not expect your spouse to solve the problem. Begin by examining yourself! Most marriage problems result from faults on the part of both parties. Rarely is one person alone the whole cause of the problem.
1 Peter 3:1,2 - You cannot control what your spouse does. You can only control what you do. If you become what you should be, you will set the example to help your spouse become what he/she should be. Do not wait for them to change. Start doing all God says for you to do and you will have the best chance you can have for a good marriage.
I have a confession.
This past Sunday morning at 10:30 am I was sleeping in my bed.
That's right. I didn't go to church. In fact, if you asked my husband and I what church we frequented, we couldn't tell you.
There, it's out there now.
My husband and I have fights and have moments as any couple would but we don't have such dire problems that are worth raising red flags for, thank God. However, this lack of priority to get to the community of the church is something that can cause problems because there is always that threat of losing sight of God. You are who you hang out with right? If we aren't around other Christians, then, yeah, I'm going to be concerned. A marriage without God is playing with the fate of being a statistic.
Maybe some of you know or not, but my husband is Catholic and I was a Baptist in high school, turned non-denominational Christian in college. Going to each other's churches just wasn't our thing and before getting married it was an issue trying to decide where we would go and what our kids would be.
When I was in college I attended Lifechurch.tv much to the dismay of my husband who could never comprehend the idea of hearing a sermon from a pastor on a large screen. But if you were to hear a sermon from Pastor Craig, you would love it too! It was from listening to Pastor Craig that I learned that it isn't about me. That we are all the church as Christians no matter the denomination. I decided that the Catholic Church would be our church so that the hubs and I wouldn't have to argue about it anymore. (Marriage is compromise right? Someone had to give! lol)
But then our lives started with the military taking over. In Virginia, my husband endured high physical stress, so the idea of getting up on Sunday morning for him wasn't happening. Now here in Florida, countless hours of studying for flight school when he absolutely cannot fail a test or he loses his career weighs on him. I pray for him everyday to have the strength for it all but I can't get him up on Sunday morning for anything.
Don't take this as me blaming him. I'm to blame because I'm not going to be the one who goes to mass by myself. I am intimidated by the Catholic church because all I can remember from it is from when I was maybe 7 years old. All through High School and College I would go by myself to church, but it wasn't Catholic church. If he doesn't go with me, I don't go. It is awkward enough being the only one sitting down when everyone gets up for the bread and wine. Not to mention my lack of fire and feeling lost the past couple months hasn't helped in me wanting to get up on Sunday morning either. :-/
Thankfully Lifechurch has online services that I "attend" but we all know that it isn't the same as being among other believers in a face-to-face environment. I have been doing a daily devotional on my phone and I always get scripture sent to my email daily and it is a funny thing how they are all relating lately! It is as if the moment God broke His silence to me, he now won't stop talking! Every day since last week has been a lot of "I hear you God" and "Ah! Hah! I got You Lord!" Even the songs on the Christian radio and on Pandora have seemed to be around the same memo that God wants to drill in my head. Don't you love when that happens? When God is loud and clear? Especially when He had been silent!
I guess I have to go back to Pastor Craig's message when he said that it wasn't about me. That it's about God. I must set the example and overcome my fears and nerves. I need to suck it up and get in that car.
Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives. ~ 1 Peter 3:1-2
As a Christian, I know I cannot be perfect. That is why we need Christ! It is from my truth that I hope to inspire other newlyweds and brides-to-be. We aren't going to have this thing figured out just because we got married. We don't have to behave as if we have the experience and knowledge of having been married 20 years. We just get to live life the best we can and live it for Him. The best part is that Jesus is always with us through it all.
It is my hope that anything I have shared today speaks to you. :-)
~
So who else does the online church thing?
Are you also having troubles getting to church on Sunday for various reasons?
Maybe it's the stress of planning the wedding that makes you want to stay home and not see your family who is going to be there.
Maybe it's that you or your partner work so much to make ends meet that you work clear through the weekends.
Are you having troubles finding a new church home from moving?
Are you and your fiance dealing with whose church to go to?
Share in the comments below or share on the Wedding Pickle Facebook Page. Or just pray about it and I'll be praying with you! :-)
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Scripture: Two are better than one
Two are better than one: they get a good wage for their labor. If the one falls, the other will lift up his companion. Woe to the solitary man! For if he should fall, he has no one to lift him up. So also, if two sleep together, they keep each other warm. How can one alone keep warm? Where a lone man may be overcome, two together can resist. A three-ply cord is not easily broken. ~ Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
ContextThe book of Ecclesiastes is the story of a man, the Teacher, in search for what is meaningful in life but finds that everything he has searched in order to find the meaning in life is meaningless. The chapter that the passage is in is titled "Oppression, Toil, Friendlessness"
Meaning
All of our achievements and success and "chasing after the wind" is meaningless. The passage describes a man who is alone who has no one to share his wealth with asks in verse 8, "For whom am I toiling . . . and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?" He works hard for his riches yet there is no point if no one is around. It is hard to find meaning in our life's work if it isn't for others.
This passage is a statement of truth and what a blessing it is that we have found that person to share our life with. And if we are blessed with successes and riches, it is for each other and not for ourselves. The passage basically describes how we can't even truly succeed if we don't have someone to share it with. If we don't have someone who supports us and warms our hearts to live life in Love, sharing that love with others. We also need another to help us overcome turmoil and evil in life.
I honestly don't understand why anyone out there says that they never want to get married or fall in love because it will only bring them down. That's funny because it is only having another in our lives that lifts us up and makes all efforts worthwhile!
So what is the point of a soul mate? Of a life partner? Of a love of your life? Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 answers such questions. <3
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Marriage Monday: God Spoke to Me
Okay, so it's not Monday. I spent yesterday revising and revising the heck out of this post. I was also scared to post this and got the courage to do it today. I'm very bad at sticking to routines. My bible study posts seem to come every other week instead of weekly. Though I did mention how Marriage Monday was going to be more of me sharing notes and thoughts of my own reading and studying on being a better wife and striving for a fulfilling marriage. I was going to sit down and write up my notes continuing that bible study that I started but something happened to me Saturday that moved me. Sometimes when God speaks to you, you can't help but want to tell the world!
I'm always trying to sprinkle in a bit of myself in my posts, but it has always been a debate within myself on revealing more of me to you. In my effort to shift the focus of the blog to being a Christian wedding AND marriage blog, I've decided to do better about documenting my own journey as a Christian newlywed trying to make her marriage rooted in Christ. This blog is a part of that effort because it holds me accountable. But, I'm not perfect. No one is. That is the beauty of being a Christian. We live for Christ because we aren't perfect. And He loves us anyway.
So now I reveal an internal struggle I have been dealing with the past few months.
I am so lost.
I'm lost in myself trying to find my passion. I'm lost in this world trying to find my place. I'm lost in my home trying to be a good wife.
My blog reached its 1 year anniversary and I started to realize that more than wanting to be a wedding planner, I wanted to be a writer. I learned from this blog that it is writing on weddings and Christ that make me so happy.
However, my priorities and routines are all whack right now. I wake up in the morning only wanting to go back to bed feeling like, what is the point of getting up? I'll write a post, do my work out, feed the dog, run, stare at my house and procrastinate on chores. I feel like a mouse on a wheel. Moving yet going nowhere.
I have been feeling like I have no purpose. It is a silly feeling. When I blog and when I run are the only times that I feel like I'm doing something worthwhile. I guess I feel like I'm just going through the motions with everything else.
I have prayed countless times and cried, begging and pleading God to light a fire under me. To show me direction. He once was opening doors and closing doors for me like crazy and I followed without hesitation. I lived with such excitement everyday and everything reflected that. But lately. . .
Nothing. . .
I have endured pain in my past to be unable to deny God's existence. So I know at all times that He is present even when I can't feel Him.
But man is it lonely.
I rely on my faith and knowing His hand is always there to keep me going.
I came across this article just a few days ago that warmed my heart concerning God's silence. That God is planning a party for me and is using this silent period as a way to make me a better Christian. I endure it solely because I know it is a part of His plan. And we'll celebrate when I get out of this funk.
Then God broke His silence. Just Saturday when I was writing the post for Sunday on Ruth 1:16-17, He spoke.
I always do my scripture and reading on my online Bible at YouVersion.com but I pulled out my old Women's Devotional Bible because I knew it gave more history and background on each book of the bible. I wanted to learn more on the book of Ruth so there that old Bible was in front of me. Curious, I dug through the pockets of the cover and found old sermon notes all the way from when I was in High School from my old church. There aren't many but for some reason, I saved a few. And I know I didn't save them on purpose. They just happen to be ones I didn't throw out. The first one I pulled out was this one from July 2004!
Wow. There you go. God broke His silence to answer my prayers of begging for Him to guide me. He just told me WHY He's been silent and what I needed to DO. My heart was so moved. It still is.
I never doubted His presence. I just felt alone. I'll take a moment and thank my husband for dealing with my mood swings and laziness lately lol! Thank God for him! (This is me keeping in mind number 4 of what to do!)
Our God is so wonderful in that He loves us! He is there always no matter what. I'm not saying I'm all figured out. I'm still figuring what my purpose is. A common struggle I'm sure many of us have. It's just hard to do when He is silent.
I feel that maybe some of you have been feeling like this? You quit your job, get married, move out of state and have to start over. Ever wonder what you are doing is right? Do you feel lost at times? All in all, are you feeling like God could speak up a bit? He wants to hear us and Lord knows I need to hear you! I pray that with my openness in this post that we can encourage one another. :-)
He love us! Oh, how He loves us!
~ Melina
I'm always trying to sprinkle in a bit of myself in my posts, but it has always been a debate within myself on revealing more of me to you. In my effort to shift the focus of the blog to being a Christian wedding AND marriage blog, I've decided to do better about documenting my own journey as a Christian newlywed trying to make her marriage rooted in Christ. This blog is a part of that effort because it holds me accountable. But, I'm not perfect. No one is. That is the beauty of being a Christian. We live for Christ because we aren't perfect. And He loves us anyway.
So now I reveal an internal struggle I have been dealing with the past few months.
I am so lost.
I'm lost in myself trying to find my passion. I'm lost in this world trying to find my place. I'm lost in my home trying to be a good wife.
My blog reached its 1 year anniversary and I started to realize that more than wanting to be a wedding planner, I wanted to be a writer. I learned from this blog that it is writing on weddings and Christ that make me so happy.
However, my priorities and routines are all whack right now. I wake up in the morning only wanting to go back to bed feeling like, what is the point of getting up? I'll write a post, do my work out, feed the dog, run, stare at my house and procrastinate on chores. I feel like a mouse on a wheel. Moving yet going nowhere.
I have been feeling like I have no purpose. It is a silly feeling. When I blog and when I run are the only times that I feel like I'm doing something worthwhile. I guess I feel like I'm just going through the motions with everything else.
I have prayed countless times and cried, begging and pleading God to light a fire under me. To show me direction. He once was opening doors and closing doors for me like crazy and I followed without hesitation. I lived with such excitement everyday and everything reflected that. But lately. . .
Nothing. . .
I have endured pain in my past to be unable to deny God's existence. So I know at all times that He is present even when I can't feel Him.
But man is it lonely.
I rely on my faith and knowing His hand is always there to keep me going.
I came across this article just a few days ago that warmed my heart concerning God's silence. That God is planning a party for me and is using this silent period as a way to make me a better Christian. I endure it solely because I know it is a part of His plan. And we'll celebrate when I get out of this funk.
Then God broke His silence. Just Saturday when I was writing the post for Sunday on Ruth 1:16-17, He spoke.
I always do my scripture and reading on my online Bible at YouVersion.com but I pulled out my old Women's Devotional Bible because I knew it gave more history and background on each book of the bible. I wanted to learn more on the book of Ruth so there that old Bible was in front of me. Curious, I dug through the pockets of the cover and found old sermon notes all the way from when I was in High School from my old church. There aren't many but for some reason, I saved a few. And I know I didn't save them on purpose. They just happen to be ones I didn't throw out. The first one I pulled out was this one from July 2004!
When God Seems Distant
The reason for his distance:
1. Sin in your life
2. Shape your life
3. Sharpen your life
What do you do?
1. Tell God how you feel
2. Focus on who God is
3. Trust God to keep His promises
4. Remember what God has already done for you
Wow. There you go. God broke His silence to answer my prayers of begging for Him to guide me. He just told me WHY He's been silent and what I needed to DO. My heart was so moved. It still is.
I never doubted His presence. I just felt alone. I'll take a moment and thank my husband for dealing with my mood swings and laziness lately lol! Thank God for him! (This is me keeping in mind number 4 of what to do!)
Our God is so wonderful in that He loves us! He is there always no matter what. I'm not saying I'm all figured out. I'm still figuring what my purpose is. A common struggle I'm sure many of us have. It's just hard to do when He is silent.
I feel that maybe some of you have been feeling like this? You quit your job, get married, move out of state and have to start over. Ever wonder what you are doing is right? Do you feel lost at times? All in all, are you feeling like God could speak up a bit? He wants to hear us and Lord knows I need to hear you! I pray that with my openness in this post that we can encourage one another. :-)
He love us! Oh, how He loves us!
~ Melina
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Scripture Series: Ruth 1:16-17
Looking for scripture to use for your ceremony readings? Today we will look at Ruth 1:16-17 and hopefully feel more connected to it. I'm hoping that this series helps you to build a truly meaningful ceremony!
For the last few months, I spent time diving into probably the most popular scripture read at ceremonies, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, and I had a blast looking at the definitions of what Love is! Let me tell you, when I sat down to look at today's reading, I was just as excited! I tend to get lost in the everyday trying to find my place in this world and figuring out what God wants for me, but when I look at Scripture, I feel rooted.
Now on to Ruth 1:16-17:
Sounds great for a bride or a groom to speak to each other. But let's look at what really is happening in this passage.
Ruth is actually speaking to her Mother-in-law.
That is right. It isn't a wonderful speech from one lover to another. It is from a woman in deep emotion to another woman.
In this story we see that Ruth followed her Mother-in-law to the promise land, the land of Judah. Her mother-in-law, Naomi, lost her husband and her sons, and was left with only her daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah. Orpah chose to stay behind while Ruth said the passage I posted above.
Ruth isn't from the land of the Lord but yet she follows her Mother-in-law into that land. Do you know what happens when we give all up and just follow the Lord?
He leads us where we are meant to be.
Ruth followed blindly based on Love and loyalty. By doing so, she was led into the land of God. She remarried and bore a son who continued the genealogy line to Jesus. She was able to build a new life based on what God had desired for her all because she followed.
Now knowing this, I definitely can imagine this as being a wife following my husband as Ruth followed her mother-in-law. May the Lord deal with me severely "if anything but death separates you and me."
For the last few months, I spent time diving into probably the most popular scripture read at ceremonies, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, and I had a blast looking at the definitions of what Love is! Let me tell you, when I sat down to look at today's reading, I was just as excited! I tend to get lost in the everyday trying to find my place in this world and figuring out what God wants for me, but when I look at Scripture, I feel rooted.
Now on to Ruth 1:16-17:
But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you. Where you go, I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your People will be my people and your God my God. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me."
Sounds great for a bride or a groom to speak to each other. But let's look at what really is happening in this passage.
Ruth is actually speaking to her Mother-in-law.
That is right. It isn't a wonderful speech from one lover to another. It is from a woman in deep emotion to another woman.
In this story we see that Ruth followed her Mother-in-law to the promise land, the land of Judah. Her mother-in-law, Naomi, lost her husband and her sons, and was left with only her daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah. Orpah chose to stay behind while Ruth said the passage I posted above.
Ruth isn't from the land of the Lord but yet she follows her Mother-in-law into that land. Do you know what happens when we give all up and just follow the Lord?
He leads us where we are meant to be.
Ruth followed blindly based on Love and loyalty. By doing so, she was led into the land of God. She remarried and bore a son who continued the genealogy line to Jesus. She was able to build a new life based on what God had desired for her all because she followed.
Now knowing this, I definitely can imagine this as being a wife following my husband as Ruth followed her mother-in-law. May the Lord deal with me severely "if anything but death separates you and me."
Friday, January 13, 2012
Bride's Prayer: I Don't Feel Pretty
This is the time of year when we all come up with resolutions and oftentimes those resolutions are to make ourselves better because there is something about ourselves that we are not happy with. There is nothing like a looming wedding day to feel the pressure of having clear skin, shiny hair, and a body that fits in your dream dress. Telling yourself, "I'm too fat" or "I'm too skinny"
Then again, you might be that girl that everyone says, "You look perfect, you don't need to change a thing!" Yet you look in the mirror and find something missing that you want to fix. That glow, that confidence, the lack of fear to be in front of everyone watching you live one of the most important moments of your life. Maybe you are considering a drastic change of yourself.
I just recently caught up on some of my DVR recordings, and yes, I do watch David Tutera's My Fair Wedding! I remember he asked one of his brides if she felt pretty (I don't recall the exact words). She said no and when he asked why, she just responded, "I've always felt this way." That made me sad! Getting married is a time when a woman should feel the most beautiful because she is surrounded by so much love!
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. - Romans 12:1-2
Take care of yourself and don't do any harmful remedies or diets that would hinder you. If you are acceptable to God, you should be acceptable to yourself! Don't worry what it is that society deems you should look like. If you need to lose weight, do it to be healthy and do it in healthy manner. If you feel the need to altar your appearance, do it in a way that doesn't alter what God already deemed acceptable (such as nose jobs, boob jobs, etc). Place your heart and mind in God so that you can have the confidence you need because God loves us as we are!
Then again, you might be that girl that everyone says, "You look perfect, you don't need to change a thing!" Yet you look in the mirror and find something missing that you want to fix. That glow, that confidence, the lack of fear to be in front of everyone watching you live one of the most important moments of your life. Maybe you are considering a drastic change of yourself.
I just recently caught up on some of my DVR recordings, and yes, I do watch David Tutera's My Fair Wedding! I remember he asked one of his brides if she felt pretty (I don't recall the exact words). She said no and when he asked why, she just responded, "I've always felt this way." That made me sad! Getting married is a time when a woman should feel the most beautiful because she is surrounded by so much love!
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. - Romans 12:1-2
Take care of yourself and don't do any harmful remedies or diets that would hinder you. If you are acceptable to God, you should be acceptable to yourself! Don't worry what it is that society deems you should look like. If you need to lose weight, do it to be healthy and do it in healthy manner. If you feel the need to altar your appearance, do it in a way that doesn't alter what God already deemed acceptable (such as nose jobs, boob jobs, etc). Place your heart and mind in God so that you can have the confidence you need because God loves us as we are!
The Prayer:
God, help me to shift my focus on your will and not on things that make me less of a living sacrifice for you. Help me to understand that any improvements of myself are to make me a better version for serving your purpose rather than to fit in with what society deems as perfection. I am acceptable to you. Help me be acceptable to myself.
Have a request for Bride's Prayer? Comment below, on the Wedding Pickle Facebook Page or fill out the anonymous form!
Have a blessed weekend and congrats if you are getting married this weekend! <3
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Wanted: Scripture for New Series!
I'm doing a lot of change around here but one thing I know for sure is that I like focusing on scripture and I intend to keep my Sundays looking at passages and analyzing the meaning. It is important to not only learn lines of scripture but to also look at the context it comes from. I had a lot of fun when I did the 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Series, but unfortunately, I have gotten through all the lines of that passage.
I wanted to give you all a chance to request any popular or not well known passages that are typically used in wedding ceremonies or just sharing your favorite passages on love from the Bible. I'd like for this ongoing series to be a resource for those of you searching for that perfect scripture to have read at your wedding. :-)
I wanted to give you all a chance to request any popular or not well known passages that are typically used in wedding ceremonies or just sharing your favorite passages on love from the Bible. I'd like for this ongoing series to be a resource for those of you searching for that perfect scripture to have read at your wedding. :-)
Now go ahead and share away! Share in the comments below or take it to the Wedding Pickle Facebook Page! I look forward to hearing your suggestions!
Monday, January 2, 2012
Marriage Monday Week 5 Discussion
Week 5 looks at Loving One Another from the Marriage Preparation and Improvement Study series. I mentioned last week how I was just going to publish my notes and thoughts for discussion for each part of the series. The Loving One Another section is actually going to be divided into two parts, so this week I only look at the first three parts that looks at how Love is a concern for the well-being of others, a choice of the will and must be expressed in both word and action. The last two sections will be discussed in Week 6.
I loved this passage so much when I came to it that I had to share:
Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. ~ Philippians 2:1-4
Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. ~ 1 John 3:18
I loved this passage so much when I came to it that I had to share:
Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. ~ Philippians 2:1-4
Then the study goes on to list examples of how a husband or wife can be selfish in their marriage. One got to me:
"The wife prefers to socialize with her friends, leaving the house in a mess."
Yep, it got me. Not that I am out and about with friends. I never really leave my house much at all. I just prefer to read blogs, browse Pinterest, catch up on Real Housewives of Atlanta and Beverly Hills, Workout, and nap. If you look at my house right now, my coffee table is a mess, and there is even a pile of towels I need to fold sitting next to me on the couch as I type this. :-/ (I'm so embarrassed to admit that!)
I have been selfish in my laziness at times. There is no reason that I shouldn't take care of my home better so that my husband can come home and feel relaxed. There is no reason that I shouldn't keep the dining table uncluttered and actually make dinner so that we can eat at the table together for that necessary 'us' time.
I love how the second section, "Love is a choice of the Will" talks about falling in love and falling out of love and how some people just give up when the love is gone. This has always been a pet peeve of mine for anyone thinking that falling out of love can be a legit excuse for divorce. If you fall out of love you were never in love to begin with. It was never love at all. Love takes work and a decision from both the husband and wife to work at it.
We are to love as Christ loves us. He died for us. If He can die for us, it shouldn't be hard to choose to keep working on a marriage. This is something you and your fiance should definitely be on the same page about!
What are ways we can show love for one another?
- Saying "I love you" at random times and not just when you are saying goodbye
- Telling the other person that you will always be there for them.
- PDA! Hold hands, kiss, and hug! (I love when my husband will just embrace me when I'm busy in the kitchen. As if to let me know he appreciates me without even having to say it. Makes me want to be a better wife!)
- Loving God :-)
Another good passage that I love because it describes the way that we should be wives and husbands:
The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife. Do not deprive each other except perhaps by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. I say this as a concession, not as a command. ~ 1 Corinthians 7:3-6
Did you do the study? What thoughts do you want to share? If you didn't do the study, that's okay, we can still discuss what I talked about today! :-) Share in the comments below or take it to the Wedding Pickle Facebook Page!
Monday, December 19, 2011
Marriage Monday Week 4 Discussion
I have an announcement to make about my Marriage Monday Bible Study. This week will actually be the last week that I will be making handouts and questions for the study. No worries though! I'm still going to do the study but instead I will just be taking my own notes as I do it and discuss thoughts and points brought up. You can still share your thoughts and findings too!
To be honest, the handouts just feel like an extra step that I don't need to be taking and I'm trying to get simplified in my life so that I don't lose the joy in the things I do. (Morbid comment but I'd rather speak with openness and honesty) As I try to find my place in this world, I stumble upon truths that I must embrace and apply to my life. I will likely be posting a personal/announcement post tomorrow about the direction I want to take this blog as it grows in readership!
Now on to talking about marriage!
1. What are your thoughts on the example of a noble woman described in Proverbs 31:10-31?
This is definitely one of my fave passages on the role a woman plays as wife in her marriage and her family. I especially love the verses 11-12 that tells how the husband and wife both have a role to support each other.
2. What is the difference between choosing to marry based on character and choosing to marry based on emotion?
The easiest example I can think of is if I married my husband based on emotion, when my husband and I had that giddy new love, we would've gotten married years ago. But I look at my life and I'm thinking I would have been 19 and taking on a responsibility that I wasn't ready for. We got married when our character was more mature. We cried through things, laughed through things and still loved the adults we became.
3. What are some things you think a person should know about the person they want to marry to be considered as knowing them well?
I felt like I knew my husband, then boyfriend, really well but you don't know how a person really is in certain situations until it comes to it. When my grandma was in the hospital dying, I was probably very irritable, angry, sad, and boring. I was so comforted by how my husband was in dealing with me. He was patient and supportive. I had never seen this side of him. The situation was not ideal but it did help me know more about him.
4. List some differences you and your fiance have that you should discuss and workout before getting married?
I think the obvious ones are practicing faith, raising children, handling finances, and career ambitions. If thoughts aren't aligned or at least at an agreement, it could definitely bring big problems in the future.
5. Take a moment and make a list of what you want in a spouse.
I actually had a list written before I even met my husband. I'll spare the long list, but will leave this with a thought. No matter what, I knew I'd only marry a man who could provide for me, protect me, and support me. :-) That and he must be a man who can lead his family and be a positive role model.
6. Write down your reaction to the section "Young people need experience with life and people before they make a choice"
I am a big supporter for this one because we all change and grow as we come to different experiences in life. My husband and I at 17 and 19 was completely different to who we were at 23 and 25 when we finally got married. In the 6 and a half years we were together before getting married, we grew a lot and fell in love with who we became. After all that, we had no doubts at all when it came to joining our lives together!
Go ahead share your thoughts! I'd love to hear what you think and what you learned! You can comment below or take it to the Wedding Pickle Facebook Page wall!
Next week will be an off week for the study but will pick it up again with a discussion for Week 5- Loving One Another on January 2nd. Don't miss it!
To be honest, the handouts just feel like an extra step that I don't need to be taking and I'm trying to get simplified in my life so that I don't lose the joy in the things I do. (Morbid comment but I'd rather speak with openness and honesty) As I try to find my place in this world, I stumble upon truths that I must embrace and apply to my life. I will likely be posting a personal/announcement post tomorrow about the direction I want to take this blog as it grows in readership!
Now on to talking about marriage!
1. What are your thoughts on the example of a noble woman described in Proverbs 31:10-31?
This is definitely one of my fave passages on the role a woman plays as wife in her marriage and her family. I especially love the verses 11-12 that tells how the husband and wife both have a role to support each other.
Her husband has full confidence in herMy other fave verse from this passage is one that I want on display at all times to remind myself of the kind of woman I want to always be for my husband. It is funny because just before even doing this study, I first found that verse on Pinterest:
and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
2. What is the difference between choosing to marry based on character and choosing to marry based on emotion?
The easiest example I can think of is if I married my husband based on emotion, when my husband and I had that giddy new love, we would've gotten married years ago. But I look at my life and I'm thinking I would have been 19 and taking on a responsibility that I wasn't ready for. We got married when our character was more mature. We cried through things, laughed through things and still loved the adults we became.
3. What are some things you think a person should know about the person they want to marry to be considered as knowing them well?
I felt like I knew my husband, then boyfriend, really well but you don't know how a person really is in certain situations until it comes to it. When my grandma was in the hospital dying, I was probably very irritable, angry, sad, and boring. I was so comforted by how my husband was in dealing with me. He was patient and supportive. I had never seen this side of him. The situation was not ideal but it did help me know more about him.
4. List some differences you and your fiance have that you should discuss and workout before getting married?
I think the obvious ones are practicing faith, raising children, handling finances, and career ambitions. If thoughts aren't aligned or at least at an agreement, it could definitely bring big problems in the future.
5. Take a moment and make a list of what you want in a spouse.
I actually had a list written before I even met my husband. I'll spare the long list, but will leave this with a thought. No matter what, I knew I'd only marry a man who could provide for me, protect me, and support me. :-) That and he must be a man who can lead his family and be a positive role model.
6. Write down your reaction to the section "Young people need experience with life and people before they make a choice"
I am a big supporter for this one because we all change and grow as we come to different experiences in life. My husband and I at 17 and 19 was completely different to who we were at 23 and 25 when we finally got married. In the 6 and a half years we were together before getting married, we grew a lot and fell in love with who we became. After all that, we had no doubts at all when it came to joining our lives together!
Go ahead share your thoughts! I'd love to hear what you think and what you learned! You can comment below or take it to the Wedding Pickle Facebook Page wall!
Next week will be an off week for the study but will pick it up again with a discussion for Week 5- Loving One Another on January 2nd. Don't miss it!
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Corinthians {15} Love Never Fails
It was months in the works creating this series and I'm honestly very sad to be at the end of the breakdown of the best definition of love ever! I did have a lot of fun when I would do each post because it taught me on how to love the way it was meant to be done and it would keep me in check on my selfish tendencies.
4. to lose strength or vigor; become weak
How might we see this in our relationship and marriage?
- Not giving your 100% to save your marriage when it comes to the tough times
If you haven't yet, be sure to Like Wedding Pickle on Facebook! Or get on the page and/or comment below if you have any requests for scripture to be analyzed in this series! :-)
I do plan to start another series on more popular scripture that you can use for ceremony readings. :-)
In case you missed the start of this series, check out the kick off of breaking down this popular wedding ceremony reading: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.
What does it mean to fail? It is defined by dictionary.com as this:
1. to fall short of success or achievement in something expected, attempted, desired, or approved
In case you missed the start of this series, check out the kick off of breaking down this popular wedding ceremony reading: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
Part Fifteen looks at
1. to fall short of success or achievement in something expected, attempted, desired, or approved
2. to be or become deficient or lacking; be insufficient or absent; fall short
3. to dwindle, pass, or die away4. to lose strength or vigor; become weak
How might we see this in our relationship and marriage?
- Not giving your 100% to save your marriage when it comes to the tough times
- Divorce
- Lack of effort in maintaining romance, affection and communication
- Saying, "We just fell out of love."
If any of the above occurs then it never really was real love in the first place because love never ends, it just keeps going. It can be tested, it can be strengthened, it can be hurt, it can be glorified. But the bottom line is that it never fails because it is real. The love with our spouse should be an example and celebration of God's never ending love for us! If you ever feel like your love is failing, always come back to this scripture and strive to make your love do all that the bible says it is.
Do you have any examples or stories to share today for how Love Never Fails? Do share!
Do you have any examples or stories to share today for how Love Never Fails? Do share!
If you haven't yet, be sure to Like Wedding Pickle on Facebook! Or get on the page and/or comment below if you have any requests for scripture to be analyzed in this series! :-)
Monday, December 5, 2011
Marriage Monday Week 3 Discussion
Wow, somebody dropped the ball on this blog! Wait, that would be me! I have totally been absent the past few days from here and from social media, you'd almost think I fell off the face of the Earth. Obviously, I didn't but mentally I really did. I think I was spaced out in anticipation of the Big 12 Championship Oklahoma State vs Oklahoma game. Then we won and then we were on the edge of our seat waiting for the BCS peeps to announce who would be going to the national championship game. It won't be us but we are still so stoked! Seriously, did we just beat OU? Was that really OU playing that night? See, I'm still in a daze.
That and I've been busy launching a new project which I'm not ready to announce what it is yet. You know how it is when something is new and shiny one gets consumed in it! Needless to say I'm giving myself a run for my money going into 2012!
So here it is, finally. My answers to last week's bible study questions! Again, feel free to comment, discuss and/or add your own answers. Let's get growing in God for our marriages!
1. What are your thoughts on divorce?
I have to say that it is something I really don't believe in. My parents are divorced and it has taught me a lot on the pain and confusion it causes. That and I still believe my parents to be married in the eyes of the Lord. Divorce on paper is no divorce in God!
2. Why is it that God hates divorce?
"The man who hates and divorces his wife," says the Lord, the God of Israel, "does violence to the one he should protect,"says the Lord Almighty. So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful. - Malachi 2:16
That and I've been busy launching a new project which I'm not ready to announce what it is yet. You know how it is when something is new and shiny one gets consumed in it! Needless to say I'm giving myself a run for my money going into 2012!
So here it is, finally. My answers to last week's bible study questions! Again, feel free to comment, discuss and/or add your own answers. Let's get growing in God for our marriages!
1. What are your thoughts on divorce?
I have to say that it is something I really don't believe in. My parents are divorced and it has taught me a lot on the pain and confusion it causes. That and I still believe my parents to be married in the eyes of the Lord. Divorce on paper is no divorce in God!
2. Why is it that God hates divorce?
"The man who hates and divorces his wife," says the Lord, the God of Israel, "does violence to the one he should protect,"says the Lord Almighty. So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful. - Malachi 2:16
When we get married we are partners. We are one. So to against that just goes against all of what God intended for marriage.
3. Write down your thoughts on death and infidelity being the only reasons that allows a person to remarry?
I honestly was surprised by this one. My own views is that only in death, "'till death do us part" could a person remarry. I remember hearing people say that infidelity is another reason but I never looked it up until now. Now, I don't see it as a reason for divorce since my husband and I have agreed that divorce is not an option. I believe turning to God can salvage the marriage.
4. Have you talked about Divorce not being an option for when times get tough? List some ways that you plan to deal with difficult situations.
Other than prayer and surrounding ourselves with fellow Christians, the hubs and I are not shy when it comes to the idea of going to counseling. Also, fixing communication. In our past when we had troubles, we reverted back to a simple email to explain our feelings to each other rather than trying to talk where our voices can get raised and words misunderstood.
My favorite passage for this week:
"So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together let no one separate." - Matthew 19:6
Chime in below as a comment or share your thoughts on the Wedding Pickle Facebook Page!
The handout for Week 4 will be up ASAP!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Bible Study Week 3 Handout
So it is not necessarily Marriage Monday but since I'm doing things with a bit of a delay this week, I'm posting this study sheet today. It is a short study so you can do the study every other day this week, focusing on a specific thought and praying about it in the mean time.
Marriage Monday Week 3:The Permanence of Marriage
Don't forget to tune in next Monday for the answers and discussion on this week's study and to get the handout for the next week's study.
Marriage Monday Week 3:The Permanence of Marriage
Don't forget to tune in next Monday for the answers and discussion on this week's study and to get the handout for the next week's study.
If you haven't yet, be sure to Like Wedding Pickle on Facebook!
Monday, November 28, 2011
Corinthians {14} Love Always Perseveres
I'm a whole day off coming out of Thanksgiving vacation and to make it easier on myself, I'm going to shift everything over a day. The handout for the 3rd week of the Marriage Monday Bible Study will be up tomorrow!
In case you missed the start of this series, check out the kick off of breaking down this popular wedding ceremony reading: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.
What does it mean to persevere? It is defined by dictionary.com as this:
1. to persist in anything undertaken; maintain a purpose inspite of difficulty, obstacles, or discouragement; continue steadfastly.
How might we see this in our relationship and marriage?
- Stay together through the ups and downs
- Having the motto "Divorce is not an option" and sticking to it
- If having to go to couple's counseling, to keep on going even if you aren't seeing it work right away
Do you have any examples or stories to share today for how Love Always Perseveres? Do share!
In case you missed the start of this series, check out the kick off of breaking down this popular wedding ceremony reading: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
Part Fourteen looks at
1. to persist in anything undertaken; maintain a purpose inspite of difficulty, obstacles, or discouragement; continue steadfastly.
How might we see this in our relationship and marriage?
- Stay together through the ups and downs
- Having the motto "Divorce is not an option" and sticking to it
- If having to go to couple's counseling, to keep on going even if you aren't seeing it work right away
Do you have any examples or stories to share today for how Love Always Perseveres? Do share!
Be sure to Like Wedding Pickle on Facebook!
Monday, November 21, 2011
Marriage Monday: Week 2 Discussion
I had a blast this weekend since my dad paid a visit and I hadn't seen him in nearly a year! This would be why I didn't post this past Friday and Saturday.
Can you believe that we are already to the week of Thanksgiving? I'll have a few posts for you this week (along with a giveaway!) and then the blog will be on a break until the following Marriage Monday where we will carry on with the discussion from this week's study.
1. Recall some reasons from last week on why it is important to help one another serve God.
Without looking back right now, I would say that it is important to help one another serve God because God made us to serve Him, because it sets the foundation for being able to raise our children in God, and it helps us to better serve His purpose for us.
2. What are some ways that you love one another as you love yourself?
Putting my husband's needs above mine, waking up early in the morning to take care of him even though I don't need to be up, let him have the bigger piece even though I want it but he needs to eat more to not be hungry later, thinking about how something would affect his feelings before saying something, (I can probably list a bunch of random and serious ones here but I will spare you having to read a long post!)
3. What are some ways you plan to bring up your kids in the training and instruction of the Lord?
We plan to take our kids to church every Sunday, but on top of that I want to be involved in the church with other moms so that my kids are more involved as well such as different church events and activities. I also would love for my family to read a bit of the Bible together every night as a part of the bedtime reading. No kids yet, but this is hopefully a plan I can live up to!
4. List the reasons why you want to (or did) marry the one you love? Are they Godly reasons? Are they proper or misled reasons?
He understands me, respects me, loves me, makes me laugh, recognizes my pain, he has similar beliefs as I do, both of us being Christian, he has a wonderful family that supports each other, and heck, who wouldn't want to marry an Italian and take on a cool last name! lol
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| Daddy and I at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola |
Now on to the bible study answers and discussion!
1. Recall some reasons from last week on why it is important to help one another serve God.
Without looking back right now, I would say that it is important to help one another serve God because God made us to serve Him, because it sets the foundation for being able to raise our children in God, and it helps us to better serve His purpose for us.
2. What are some ways that you love one another as you love yourself?
Putting my husband's needs above mine, waking up early in the morning to take care of him even though I don't need to be up, let him have the bigger piece even though I want it but he needs to eat more to not be hungry later, thinking about how something would affect his feelings before saying something, (I can probably list a bunch of random and serious ones here but I will spare you having to read a long post!)
3. What are some ways you plan to bring up your kids in the training and instruction of the Lord?
We plan to take our kids to church every Sunday, but on top of that I want to be involved in the church with other moms so that my kids are more involved as well such as different church events and activities. I also would love for my family to read a bit of the Bible together every night as a part of the bedtime reading. No kids yet, but this is hopefully a plan I can live up to!
4. List the reasons why you want to (or did) marry the one you love? Are they Godly reasons? Are they proper or misled reasons?
He understands me, respects me, loves me, makes me laugh, recognizes my pain, he has similar beliefs as I do, both of us being Christian, he has a wonderful family that supports each other, and heck, who wouldn't want to marry an Italian and take on a cool last name! lol
My fave scripture from this study:
That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh. - Genesis 2:24
What are some of your answers, comments and/or questions from this study? Which scripture was your fave or spoke to you most this week?
Carry the discussion in the comments below or share on the Wedding Pickle Facebook Page wall!
Oh and instead of grabbing a handout for Week 3, we will all take a break to be with our families and enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday week. Give thanks and give love! :-) (Don't worry, the Week 3 handout will be available next Monday when we continue!)
Oh and instead of grabbing a handout for Week 3, we will all take a break to be with our families and enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday week. Give thanks and give love! :-) (Don't worry, the Week 3 handout will be available next Monday when we continue!)
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Corinthians {13} Love Always Hopes
In case you missed the start of this series, check out the kick off of breaking down this popular wedding ceremony reading: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.
What is hope? It is defined by dictionary.com as this:
1. the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best
2. to look forward to with desire and reasonable confidence.
3. to believe, desire, or trust
How might we see this in our relationship and marriage?
- When one of you is suffering an illness, the other of keeps the hope that it will get better
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
Part Thirteen looks at
1. the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best
2. to look forward to with desire and reasonable confidence.
3. to believe, desire, or trust
How might we see this in our relationship and marriage?
- When one of you is suffering an illness, the other of keeps the hope that it will get better
- If your relationship hits a rough patch and one wants to give up, the other never gives up the hope that the issue will be worked out.
- Working towards and always believing that you'll both get to live in your dream home someday
- Believing that he will return from deployment to hold you in his arms
I remember after dating for four years, my husband (then boyfriend) and I had a time where we were on a break. It was really tough and very emotional of a time and while he worried what our future would hold, I kept believing in us and that we would get through it. I have to tell you, a lot of times I believed that I was losing hope but I never gave up. It would have been easier to give up but I loved him. Good thing I held on since we did end up getting married! That experience taught me a lot about my own strength and it also helped us learn more about each other which was necessary for us to feel ready for marriage someday. :-)
Do you have any examples or stories to share today for how Love Always Hopes? Do share!
I remember after dating for four years, my husband (then boyfriend) and I had a time where we were on a break. It was really tough and very emotional of a time and while he worried what our future would hold, I kept believing in us and that we would get through it. I have to tell you, a lot of times I believed that I was losing hope but I never gave up. It would have been easier to give up but I loved him. Good thing I held on since we did end up getting married! That experience taught me a lot about my own strength and it also helped us learn more about each other which was necessary for us to feel ready for marriage someday. :-)
Do you have any examples or stories to share today for how Love Always Hopes? Do share!
Be sure to Like Wedding Pickle on Facebook!
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Bible Study Week 2 Handout
Shame on me for not getting this out to you guys yesterday! It's okay though, the study is shorter so even starting today would still be on schedule! Week two will look at the purpose of marriage according to the Bible.
Download your copy and then be sure to check back next Monday for discussion and answers to the questions on this week's study topic. :-)
Marriage Monday Week 2: The Purpose of Marriage
Download your copy and then be sure to check back next Monday for discussion and answers to the questions on this week's study topic. :-)
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Corinthians {12} Love Always Trusts
In case you missed the start of this series, check out the kick off of breaking down this popular wedding ceremony reading: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.
What is trust? It is defined by dictionary.com as this:
1. reliance on the integrity, strength, ability, surety, etc., of a person or thing; confidence.
2. confident expectation of something; hope.
How might we see this in our relationship and marriage?
- You know without a doubt that he isn't going to throw away your old high school t-shirt that you know he hates but that you love
- You know that he isn't going to go out with his buddies and do anything to jeopardize your relationship
- You can tell him your feelings in confidence and know that he won't blab it to anyone else. He is your best friend!
- You are going to marry him. Tell me that is not the ultimate act of trust when you take that leap to spend the rest of your life with him!
I actually remember when I started this blog I was too embarrassed to actually tell my husband that I had started a wedding blog because we were newlyweds and I worried that he would make fun of me for not being able to let go of the wedding bug or that he would think I was stupid for wasting so much time on something no one reads. I waited months for the blog to grow before telling him and would sneak in time to write posts so that he wouldn't know about my wedding obsession!
Anyway, how silly did I feel when he did find out (I left the tab of my blog open on my computer, lol) and he didn't make fun of me or make me feel stupid. He just told me that he was just okay with me doing whatever made me happy. I should have known that I could have trusted my feelings with him. To know that he is my best friend and if I can't confide in him with something as menial as starting a blog then I actually hinder the fact that I trust him. Now I know!
Do you have any examples or stories to share today for how Love Always Trusts? Do share!
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
Part Twelve looks at
1. reliance on the integrity, strength, ability, surety, etc., of a person or thing; confidence.
2. confident expectation of something; hope.
3. a person on whom or thing on which one relies
How might we see this in our relationship and marriage?
- You know without a doubt that he isn't going to throw away your old high school t-shirt that you know he hates but that you love
- You know that he isn't going to go out with his buddies and do anything to jeopardize your relationship
- You can tell him your feelings in confidence and know that he won't blab it to anyone else. He is your best friend!
- You are going to marry him. Tell me that is not the ultimate act of trust when you take that leap to spend the rest of your life with him!
I actually remember when I started this blog I was too embarrassed to actually tell my husband that I had started a wedding blog because we were newlyweds and I worried that he would make fun of me for not being able to let go of the wedding bug or that he would think I was stupid for wasting so much time on something no one reads. I waited months for the blog to grow before telling him and would sneak in time to write posts so that he wouldn't know about my wedding obsession!
Anyway, how silly did I feel when he did find out (I left the tab of my blog open on my computer, lol) and he didn't make fun of me or make me feel stupid. He just told me that he was just okay with me doing whatever made me happy. I should have known that I could have trusted my feelings with him. To know that he is my best friend and if I can't confide in him with something as menial as starting a blog then I actually hinder the fact that I trust him. Now I know!
Do you have any examples or stories to share today for how Love Always Trusts? Do share!
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Friday, November 11, 2011
Bride's Prayer: Are you Ready?
Ever feel like ever since you got engaged that all of a sudden no one is backing your relationship? Naturally it would give you doubts. They probably are asking all the time, "Are you sure you are ready to get married?" Hear it enough and now you might be asking yourself the same thing.
You might be telling yourself that you are just following your heart and you are just going to have to go with that.
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? - Jeremiah 17:9
You might be telling yourself that you are just following your heart and you are just going to have to go with that.
The problem is that you shouldn't follow your heart. You should follow God. But how do we know we are following God when we make such big decisions? First seek God, if your heart is with Him, then you can have faith that the choices you make take you in the right direction.
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. - Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. - Jeremiah 29:11
The Prayer:
God, I praise you for the gift I have to be able to turn to you. Please help me to fill my heart with you so that when I follow it, I know I am going the right direction. Guide me towards confidence rather than doubt as I get closer to marrying the man I love.
Find more on the Bride's Prayer Page!
Got a Bride's Prayer request? Leave a comment below or fill out the form!
Glad You're Here!
My name is Melina. Welcome to my blog where we get inspired by wedding pretties and moved by the Love of Christ. I write to share things that make me giddy and an outlet for us all to grow in our faith. Happy wedding planning and beyond! Check out my About page for more about me and the purpose for my blog :-)
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