Nothing apart from Him
I’ve been having a wonderful time this last week! Early on in the week I enjoyed my first meeting with the other ladies in the “Ministry Wives” group at our church. Pastor Mike’s wife, Carlynn exhorted us to learn from the example set by a ministry wife–Sarah Edwards, who left a great impact on numerous lives as she kept her home in order, raised eleven children and faithfully loved and served alongside her husband. I was struck by the quotes Carlynn read of how people were deeply affected by her hospitality, unordinary cheerfulness and meaningful conversation. She has an amazing life story which inspired me to seek the qualities that she possessed, namely the depth and intimacy she shared with the Lord.
This discussion about Sarah Edwards had me thinking a lot on how I could be a more godly wife and helper to Bobby because Thursday we celebrated our 4-year anniversary! I can see many ways that we have matured and grown together and I want to continue seeking opportunities to improve as a companion to Bobby, in keeping our home and now as a mother.
I was reflecting on some of the key things I have learned since I’ve been married. I remember someone telling me early on in the first year of marriage that God’s desire was more for my holiness than my happiness in marriage. I thought, that was true, but I feel now that I am learning just how true that is. Now, this is not to say that I am not happy in marriage, I am very much! What I am saying is that marriage has been like a green house for me. I think I’ve probably had more temptations, discouragements and frustrations as a wife than I ever had when I was single. Bobby is a wonderful husband because he is first of all very forgiving toward me and second, concerned about my number one priority–God. Every day he is asking me, “Did you do your daily Bible reading?” “Have you prayed about this or that?” He is a great accountability for me.
One of the main things I think I’ve learned is how necessary it is to command my thoughts and feelings when they want to stray to “self.” I have found it very easy to feel sorry for myself if I start to think about all that I’m doing for others. Because then I start thinking, “What am I getting?” But reality is that I’m not able to do anything for others without the ability that the Lord provides as I depend on Him. John 15:5 says, “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” God doesn’t provide the ability for me to only fill my role out of duty either. He changes my heart and mind so that my feelings and thoughts can come into submission to His will so that I can love and serve Bobby with a whole heart as doing it unto the Lord.
In Carolyn Mahaney’s book Feminine Appeal she writes:
will sooner or later determine our behavior. Sinful thoughts and
sinful feelings lead to sinful behavior. Therefore, dare not ignore
these faculties, but we must exercise self-control in them.”
p. 73
but in lowliness of mined let each esteem others better than
himself. Let each of you look not only for his own interests,
but also for the interests of others.”
Philippians 2:3-4
Though I have learned some truths about selflessness, I still have a long way to go. My encouragement is found in the promises of God that grant me the mercy of each new day, forgiveness when I fail and the assurance that “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
July 4th, 2006
Sis!
It has been a while since you have posted a pic of only you and Bobby, and what a great pic! Sounds like some cool stuff about Sarah Edwards. It is so encouraging to see how much you and Bobby encourage each other. I never really think of just Bobby leading a youth group; I think of both of you doing it together. Looking forward to seeing you all today!
July 4th, 2006
Great thoughts on marriage and great picture. I have been married 10 years and can also see how God has matured us individually and as a couple. He is so good! I love 2 Corinthians 12:9.
I always look forward to reading your posts. Thanks.
July 4th, 2006
I remember when I was a young mom I thought I was honoring the Lord with all my service–to my husband young children, home, and church. While I was busy serving, I was truly honoring the Lord only when I was serving the Lord from my heart. I needed not only the actions of a servant, but the heart of a servant. God has taught me much over the years about the importance of my thought life. I am thankful you are learning these lessons so early!
July 4th, 2006
Hey,
I really enjoy your blog! Thanks for your honest heart and truthfulness, it is refreshing to hear someone be real. Its cool to read about real people who serve Jesus.
I am a musician, and I would be honored if you would check out my music. All music on my site is free for download. Anyway, don’t want to be a pest, I just thought that I’d share.
Thanks,
-Sean
_____________________
http://www.SeanDietrich.com
“All my music is free.”
July 7th, 2006
Christa, I love when you post about being a wife and mother. You put into words exactly what I feel! I have heard alot about Feminine Appeal, esp. since he and his wife moved to Little Rock and attend my home church. I should read it!
Your comment about marriage is to make us holy not necessarily happy reminded me of a book Matt and I are reading together. You may have heard of it: Sacred Marriage (by Gary Thompson if I remember correctly…it’s in the car). You should check it out if you haven’t already!
July 12th, 2006
AAAHHH, Christa, this is Dawn’s mom, she has posted wrong information. It is because she is confused
The Mahaney’s have NOT moved to Little Rock and they don’t attend our church. Last fall they came to our church and did a mens/womens conference. They still live in Maryland. The Macks (Wayne/Carol) have moved to Little Rock for part of the year, the rest of the year they are in South Africa. Oh I hope this doesn’t start rumors 
you know how the “grace vine” can be 
Kathie