Good morning! Thank you for joining me as we continue in Matthew chapter 19. We will pick up on verse 7, continuing the conversation between Jesus and the Pharisees on their discussion on divorce and marriage.

BIBLE VERSE – Matthew 19:7-12 NLT
“⁷ “Then why did Moses say in the law that a man could give his wife a written notice of divorce and send her away?”[Deuteronomy 24:1] they asked.

⁸ Jesus replied, “Moses permitted divorce only as a concession to your hard hearts, but it was not what God had originally intended. ⁹ And I tell you this, whoever divorces his wife and marries someone else commits adultery—unless his wife has been unfaithful.]”

¹⁰ Jesus’ disciples then said to him, “If this is the case, it is better not to marry!”

¹¹ “Not everyone can accept this statement, “Jesus said. “Only those whom God helps. ¹² Some are born as eunuchs, some have been made eunuchs by others, and some choose not to marry for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Let anyone accept this who can.””

REFLECTION
Marriage is not an easy process to maneuver through, it definitely takes a lot of work, patience and love (sometimes sacrificial love). Yet, through it all it’s important to keep God first in your marriage. Being single is not as easy and carefree as some might think, it definitely takes a lot of patience, self reflection, growth, self-control, learning how to love and acceptance of who you are in Christ.

In the verses we read, that divorce was permitted as a concession to cold hearts, but it wasn’t what God originally intended for us. While I don’t know all the details about your marriage or your single life, I do know God wants the very best for you. Please seek Him and his direction for your marriage or while you are single (whether by election, widowed or divorce). Ask the Lord, to give you clarity of mind and to guide your steps.

PRAYER
Father God, in the name of Jesus we come to you in prayer for marriages around the world. Lord, the enemy has been busy tearing apart families and insisting on the destruction of your original plan. Lord, today we come to you and ask for forgiveness for any parts we have played in allowing the enemy to take a foothold in our marriages. Lord, forgive us for the actions we have taken, the words we have spoken, for the sinful acts committed and for the bitterness that has enraged our hearts. Lord, we don’t want to have cold hearts anymore. Lord, take our hearts and warm them up, let the blood flow with love and forgiveness that only you can supply. Lord, when we fall short remind us of how you desire for us to be a husband or wife. Lord, remind us of Ephesians 5:21-33, how to love and respect one another. Lord, you know what is best for us, so Lord be with those who are single today. Lord, speak to the men and women who are thinking about marriage and guide them to the person who is equally yoked, who loves You and is willing to love them as Christ loves the church. Lord, their is no greater love than the love you extend, their is no greater advice than the guidance you provide, so Lord speak to the singles, soften their hearts to hear from you. Lord, direct their thoughts, relationships and desires, as you prepare them for what you have planned for them.

Lord, wherever there is brokenness we ask that you heal and make it whole. Lord, wherever there is regret and remorse, remind them that there is forgiveness and restoration in You. Lord, wherever there is divorce and the remnants of that pain or bitterness, Lord we pray for forgiveness and ask for you to remove those bitter roots and spring up new life within, life that is in you and intent on following your plans for our lives. Lord, be with those who are struggling with the decision to divorce or marry, Lord give them wisdom, your perfect insight, healing in the midst of doubt and bind the enemy from clouding their thoughts. Lord, we pray for husbands to seek you and to follow you with their whole heart. Lord, when temptation appears, give them the strength to flee and turn to you. Lord, surround our husbands with godly men who truly serve you and are committed to a life of following you. Lord, we pray for wives and ask that you comfort them and shower them with your love. Lord, we ask that you remind them daily of your love for them. Lord, strengthen their relationship with you and their trust in you for their marriage and household. Lord, help them to seek you for the best way to respect, love and honor you and their spouse. Lord, equip them with words that edify their spouse and not tear them down. Lord, help them to move past the worldly standards and look to your word for the ultimate guidance on being a wife, one who has God in the center of her life, heart and tongue.

Lord, we want to experience and value your best for us. Lord, continue to work in all of our lives (single or married). In the name of Jesus, amen.

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