Forgiveness is NOT a License......

.....to stay in YOUR MESS!


You've heard it over and over again "I'm sorry, I promise I will change - things will be different from now on..."  

Forgiveness is extended because we are commanded to forgive yet, not long after the tears, the pleading and the promise offense has made its way again, and again AND again.  When does the change come into play?! NEVER! WHY? Because despite the genuine desire to change and various attempts, it takes a lot more than words.  It truly takes humility to look within and know that it is impossible to do without God.

I DEMAND Respect!

How often have you heard or uttered these words: "I DEMAND RESPECT!"

I've heard them growing up as my parents quarreled and experienced it myself in my own marriage.

I remember an incident in which a male was very upset in a store and arguing with a cashier. He was cursing up a storm.  My husband was irritated by his vulgarity and told the man to have respect for his wife (me) and his children that were present.  The man surprisingly calmed down and apologized to us.

One day my husband and I got into a "heated fellowship" and he began to speak to me in a very disrespectful way. Of course, I was angry and hurt but more than anything I was puzzled.

How is it possible that you will take a stand and demand others to respect your spouse and not put the same demand on yourself!

CHOOSE: Temptation or Way of Escape?

Have you noticed when you make the commitment to "fast" the enemy quickly lays out his table of temptations?

- Suddenly your co-workers break out the Krispy Creme doughnuts and Starbucks coffee every morning!
- Your spouse spontaneously decides to take you out to lunch or a special dinner just because...
- As you drive, every billboard is an advertisement of delicious, tempting treats
- You receive an invitation to an event: wedding, birthday, family reunion, etc..
- Oh yes, let's not forget the temptation to "lick" our fingers if we are handling or preparing food for others!!

These occurrences were never an issue before.  Why now?

ANSWER:  Because you entered into a commitment.

Think about it.  What happens when you commit to join a gym? What happens when you commit to eating healthy? What happens when you commit to a project/hobby or ministry?  What happens when you commit to breaking a bad "habit"?