Relationships

Life is never what it seems to be. There are bumps in the road, and the bumps in the road should be reminders for us to pray and pray hard.

As I'm learning about relationships and how to counsel people in different types of relationships I am encouraged, but I'm also more aware of what is going on in relationships these days.

For instance, I have friends and family going through divorces and major marital problems. Divorce, abuse, pain, confusion and all sorts of problems play into what is going on in our world. Life has never been easy. Each century faces its own challenges, some of them unique and some of them are universal. It seems that divorce is so common these days. It makes those of us that are single a bit weary about the institution. Not, that we don't want to get married, we are just aware that the chances that it will be "happily ever after" are slim.

One of the other hot buttons in relationships these days is the idea of same-sex relationships. The newest person I have heard that is "out of the closet" is the gospel singer Ray Boltz (Thank You, Shepherd Boy, Pledge Allegiance to the Lamb, etc.). I find this to be sad, but also an urge to be on my knees in prayer for the direction that our country is taking.

Of course there is also politics to discuss. All Christians that are eligible should register to vote, pay attention to the issues and where the candidates stand (local, state and federal), pray about the decisions and then in November go out and vote. By law your employer/school is required to allow you the time to go to the polls. There is NO EXCUSE to not vote.

All elected officials make decisions everyday that can and do have an affect on our relationships. The legality of same-sex marriage is one of them. Financial decisions affect relationships, decisions regarding military action and personal views affect relationships.

Relationships are not easy for anyone. They require sacrifice, patience, love, conflict resolution skills and a desire for success.

I want all my friends and family to know that I am praying for you and praying that you can successfully negotiate the speed bumps of 21st century life.