Realigning Our Relationships (TCJ Study Guide)

Realigning Relationships Through Christ

Lesson Title:

Anchored in Christ: Restoring Relationships Through Divine Love

Lesson Objective:

To help believers understand how a strong relationship with Jesus Christ transforms and realigns all other relationships through biblical principles of reconciliation, forgiveness, love, trust, and humility.

I. Foundation: Our Identity in Christ

Key Truth:  

Our relationship with Jesus is the cornerstone of our identity, purpose, and eternal destiny.

Scripture Focus:  

- John 10:10 – “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”  

- Colossians 3:3 – “For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.”

Discussion Questions:  

- How does your relationship with Jesus shape your view of yourself and others?  

- What does it mean to live in the fullness of life through Christ?

II. Reconciliation Is a Divine Calling

Key Truth:  

God calls us to be agents of reconciliation, just as He reconciled us to Himself.

Scripture Focus:  

- 2 Corinthians 5:18  

- Matthew 5:24  

- John 17:21  

- Ephesians 4:3

Application:  

- Seek peace and unity in relationships.  

- Prioritize reconciliation over rituals or pride.

Activity:  

Write down one relationship that needs healing. Pray and plan one step toward reconciliation this week.

III. Forgiveness Is Foundational

Key Truth:  

Forgiveness reflects the grace we've received through Christ and is essential for spiritual renewal.

Scripture Focus:  

- Ephesians 4:32  

- Matthew 6:14

Illustration:  

Forgiveness is like the fragrance a flower gives when trampled—beautiful, unexpected, and healing.

Reflection Prompt:  

- Who do you need to forgive today?  

- How does remembering Christ’s sacrifice help you extend grace?

IV. Love Is an Action

Key Truth:  

Love is not just a feeling—it’s a choice to act with patience, kindness, and sacrifice.

Scripture Focus:  

- 1 Corinthians 13:4-5  

- James 3:18

Challenge:  

Practice one act of sacrificial love this week—especially toward someone difficult.

Group Discussion:  

- What does supernatural love look like in everyday life?

V. Build Trust and Honesty

Key Truth:  

Trust is built through truthfulness, listening, and emotional self-control.

Scripture Focus:  

- James 1:19-20  

- Proverbs 15:1

Personal Reflection:  

- How do you respond when you're angry?  

- What helps you speak with gentleness and wisdom?

Practical Tip:  

Use “I feel” statements in conflict to express emotions without blame.

VI. Embrace Humility and Selflessness

Key Truth:  

Humility opens the door to healthy relationships and reflects Christ’s servant heart.

Scripture Focus:  

- Philippians 2:3  

- Mark 10:45 – “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…”

Action Step:  

Ask daily: “How can I be a blessing to someone today?”

Group Exercise:  

Share examples of servant-hearted actions that impacted you or others.

Closing Reflection & Prayer

Reflection Questions:  

- Which principle do you most need to apply right now?  

- How can your relationship with Jesus help you realign a strained relationship?

Prayer Focus:  

Ask God for strength to forgive, courage to reconcile, and humility to love like Christ.

The Christian Journeyman 
(C) 2025 All Rights Reserved.

When A Government Shuts Down (Study Guide)

Lesson Objective:

To equip believers with biblical principles for navigating political instability, leadership failure, and societal disruption with faith, peace, and purpose.

I. Introduction: Understanding the Crisis

• Brief overview of what a government shutdown entails

• Real-life impact: jobs, families, public services

• Emotional toll and political division

• Transition: What does the Bible say about times like these?

II. Stay Prayerful and Peaceful 

Key Scriptures:

• 1 Timothy 2:1–2 – Pray for all in authority

• Romans 12:18 – Live at peace with everyone

Discussion Points:

• Why prayer is essential during political chaos

• How peace begins with personal relationships

• What would change if leaders prayed together?

Application:

• Create a prayer list for government leaders

• Practice peacemaking in your own circles

III. Trust God’s Sovereignty 

Key Scriptures:

• Proverbs 21:1 – God directs the hearts of rulers

• Isaiah 41:10 – Do not fear, God is with you

Discussion Points:

• The difference between human control and divine sovereignty

• Historical examples of God working through broken systems

• America’s spiritual foundation and drift from it

Application:

• Reflect on areas where you’ve trusted human wisdom over God

• Journal ways to re-anchor your trust in God’s rule

IV. Care for the Vulnerable 

Key Scriptures:

• Matthew 25:35–40 – Serve the least of these

• Isaiah 1:17 – Seek justice, defend the oppressed

Discussion Points:

• Shutdowns disproportionately affect the vulnerable

• The Church’s role as a refuge and resource

• Practical ways to serve during times of crisis

Application:

• Organize a service project or donation drive

• Identify local needs and respond as a group

V. Obey God Above All 🛐

Key Scriptures:

• Romans 13:1–7 – Submit to governing authorities

• Acts 5:29 – Obey God rather than men

Discussion Points:

• Balancing respect for authority with obedience to God

• Biblical examples: Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego

• When civil disobedience becomes spiritual obedience

Application:

• Discuss modern scenarios where faith may conflict with law

• Role-play responses that honor God and respect others

VI. Conclusion: Purpose Over Panic 

Summary:

• Believers are called to be prayerful, compassionate, courageous, and anchored in God’s sovereignty.

• The goal is not fear—but faithful purpose.

Final Challenge:

• How will you respond when systems fail?

• What legacy of faith will you leave in times of crisis?

How A Congregation Affects A Pastor? (Study Guide)

 How a Congregation Affects a Pastor?

(Study Guide)

Lesson Objective

To explore the spiritual, emotional, and practical impact a congregation has on its pastor, using biblical principles to encourage mutual respect, support, and unity within the church.

Introduction

- Personal reflection: The journey of pastoral ministry

- The dual nature of congregational influence: strength or strain

- Key question: What kind of congregation are we, and how do we affect our pastor?

I. The Pastor as Shepherd: Mutual Responsibility

Scriptures:

- Acts 20:28

- Hebrews 13:17

Key Points:

- Pastors are called to spiritual oversight with the elders.

- Joyful ministry flows from a cooperative congregation.

- Resistance breeds grief and discouragement.

Discussion Questions:

- How do we respond to pastoral leadership?

- Are we helping our pastor lead with joy?

II. Emotional Impact: Healing and Burden Sharing

Scripture:

- Galatians 6:2

Key Points:

- Pastors often minister to wounded hearts.

- Emotional resilience is needed—but support helps.

- Prayer and encouragement lighten the load.

Discussion Questions:

- Do we pray regularly for our pastor?

- How can we share in the emotional burdens of ministry?

III. Shared Ministry: Empowerment and Support

Scripture:

- Ephesians 4:11–12

Key Points:

- Ministry is a shared responsibility.

- A serving congregation strengthens pastoral leadership.

- Unrealistic expectations hinder growth.

Discussion Questions:

- Are we actively involved in ministry?

- Do we recognize and support our pastor’s humanity?

IV. Spiritual Encouragement: Prayer and Unity

Scripture:

- James 5:14

Key Points:

- Prayer is essential for spiritual health.

- Pastors need prayer just as much as congregants.

- Unity in prayer fosters spiritual vitality.

Discussion Questions:

- How can we build a culture of prayer for our leaders?

- Are we spiritually united with our pastor?

V. Leadership and Accountability

Scripture:

- 1 Timothy 3:5

Key Points:

- Integrity and balance are vital for pastors.

- Congregations must avoid unrealistic demands.

- Encouragement over perfection builds trust.

Discussion Questions:

- Do we hold our pastor to impossible standards?

- How can we support his leadership while respecting his humanity?

Conclusion & Reflection

- A congregation can make or break a pastor.

- Mutual love, respect, and support reflect the heart of Christ.

- Challenge: What kind of congregation are we becoming?

Action Steps:

- Commit to praying for your pastor weekly.

- Find one tangible way to encourage or support your pastor this month.

- Reflect on how your attitude and actions affect the health of your church leadership.

The Christian Journeyman 2025 All Rights Reserved.

How A Pastor Affects A Congregation? (Study Guide)

Bible Lesson Outline: How a Pastor Affects a Congregation

Theme Verse

 “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them… being examples to the flock.” — 1 Peter 5:2–3

Lesson Objective

To understand the transformative role of a pastor in the life of a congregation through biblical principles, personal presence, and servant leadership.

Introduction

- Share the quote: “A shepherd does not give birth to sheep, only sheep give birth to sheep.”

- Discuss the metaphor: The pastor’s role is to care for the sheep, not to replace their role in evangelism.

- Emphasize the importance of presence: A pastor must be among the people to be effective.

I. Shepherding Through Presence

Scripture: 1 Peter 5:2–3  

Key Points:

- Pastors lead by example, not distance.

- Visitation and personal encouragement are as vital as preaching.

- Presence validates the message from the pulpit.

Discussion Questions:

- How does a pastor’s presence impact your spiritual growth?

- Can you recall a time when a pastor’s visit made a difference?

II. Building Genuine Relationships

Scripture: Acts 2:44–47  

Key Points:

- Fellowship fuels growth more than sermons alone.

- Pastors should be friends to all, not just a few.

- Shared life builds trust and unity.

Discussion Questions:

- What does genuine relationship with a pastor look like?

- How can pastors balance accessibility with boundaries?

III. Equipping Through Engagement

Scripture: Ephesians 4:11–13  

Key Points:

- Pastors equip saints through personal interaction.

- Knowing members helps guide them into ministry.

- Ministry is personalized, not one-size-fits-all.

Discussion Questions:

- Have you ever been personally encouraged into ministry by a pastor?

- How can pastors discover the gifts of their members?

IV. Teaching That Connects

Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:2  

Key Points:

- Effective teaching requires knowing the congregation’s needs.

- Compassion and relevance deepen impact.

- Teaching becomes a dialogue, not a monologue.

Discussion Questions:

- What makes a sermon feel “personal” to you?

- How can pastors stay connected to the real-life struggles of their flock?

V. Guiding Through Crisis

Scripture: Acts 20:28  

Key Points:

- Pastors are spiritual anchors in times of trial.

- Their presence represents Christ’s comfort and care.

- Crisis ministry builds resilience and trust.

Discussion Questions:

- How has a pastor helped you through a difficult time?

- What does it mean to be “the arms of Jesus” in someone’s pain?

VI. Modeling Servant Leadership

Scripture: Philippians 2:3–4; John 13  

Key Points:

- Jesus modeled servant leadership by washing feet.

- Pastors serve humbly and inspire others to do the same.

- Leadership is about ministry, not control.

Discussion Questions:

- What are some ways pastors can serve visibly?

- How does servant leadership influence the culture of a church?

Conclusion: Presence is Transformational

- A pastor’s presence turns sermons into conversations.

- Leadership becomes discipleship.

- The congregation becomes a family.

Challenge:  

Encourage participants to pray for their pastor’s presence and to support them in relational ministrChallenge:  

The Christian Journeyman (C) 2025 All Rights Reserved.

Will We Ever Come Together As A Nation? (Study Guide)

Will We Ever Come Together As A Nation?

Lesson Theme:

National Unity Through Righteousness and Repentance

1. Opening Scripture & Theme Verse

- Proverbs 14:34 – “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people.”

  - Key Idea: Unity is not merely political—it is moral and spiritual.

2. Diagnosis of Division

- James 4:1–3 – The root of conflict: selfish desires, jealousy, and violence.

  - Discussion Points:

    - How do personal desires lead to national strife?

    - What does it mean to “ask amiss”?

    - Are we seeing these patterns in our culture today?

3. The Moral Crisis in America

- Observation: A culture obsessed with selfishness, hatred, and violence.

- Reflection Questions:

  - Are we being too critical, or is this a realistic assessment?

  - What are signs of moral decay in society?

  - How does hatred toward those with differing views fuel division?

4. The Path to Healing and Unity

- God’s Solution: Righteousness and Love

  - John 3:16 – God’s love through Christ as the foundation for unity.

  - Practical Application: Loving others as God loves us.

- Jeremiah 29:7 – Seek peace and prosperity for your community.

  - Key Insight: National unity begins with local compassion and prayer.

5. Call to Repentance and Revival

- 2 Chronicles 7:14 – Humility, prayer, and turning from wickedness.

  - Promise: God will hear, forgive, and heal the land.

  - Group Activity: What does it look like to “seek His face” today?

6. Conclusion: A Vision for Unity

- Main Takeaway: Unity begins with individual hearts turning to God.

- Challenge: Will you be part of the healing by pursuing righteousness?

Optional Add-ons:

- Memory Verse: Proverbs 14:34

- Prayer Focus: Healing of the nation and personal repentance

- Discussion Starter: “What does national unity look like in God’s eyes?”

Family Expectations

Family Expectations

Lesson Outline: “Who Is My Family?” — Matthew 12:46–50

1. Introduction: The Scene and the Question

- Scripture Focus: Matthew 12:46–50

- Context: Jesus is teaching when His biological family arrives.

- Key Question: “Who is My mother and who are My brothers?

2. Jesus’ Response: Redefining Family

- Spiritual Family Priority: Jesus points to His disciples as His true family.

- Core Principle: Those who do the will of the Father are His family.

- Clarification: Jesus is not dismissing earthly family, but elevating spiritual kinship

3. The Priority of God’s Will

- Main Goal of Life: Doing the will of our Heavenly Father.

- Contrast with Earthly Expectations:

  - Families often have conditional expectations.

  - God’s expectations are rooted in love and grace.

4. Loving God First Improves All Relationships

- Irony of Divine Order: Putting God first strengthens family bonds.

- Biblical Guidance: Scripture teaches us how to love and minister to one another.

- Unconditional Love: Reflecting God’s love in our relationships.

5. Navigating Family Tensions

- Reality Check: Family conflicts over unmet expectations.

- God’s Example: Even when we fail, He remains faithful.

- Call to Action: Prioritize God’s will over human appapprova

6. Application and Reflection

- Questions for Personal Reflection:

  - Who do I consider my “true family”?

  - Am I placing God above all other relationships?

  - How can I better reflect God’s love in my family?

- Challenge: Adjust your priorities to align with God’s will.

- Encouragement: God’s love is constant—even when we fall short.

7. Conclusion: Living as God’s Family

- Summary: Our spiritual identity is rooted in obedience to God.

- Final Thought: When we live as children of God, we become family to one another.

Would you like this outline turned into a printable handout or formatted for a presentation?

What Is A Family To Do? (Lesson Outline)

 Bible Study Outline: 

What A Family Is To Do?

 Theme Verse

 1 Corinthians 16:14 – “Let all that you do be done in love.”

1 Peter 4:8 – “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.”

The Reality of Imperfection

Key Point: No family is perfect—just like no church is perfect.

Discussion Questions:

Why is it important to acknowledge imperfection in our families?

How does this awareness help us extend grace?

The Central Command: Love

Key Point: Love must be the foundation of all family interactions.

Scripture Focus:

1 Corinthians 16:14 – Love as the guiding principle.

1 Peter 4:8 – Love as a covering for sin.

Discussion Questions:

What does “doing everything in love” look like in daily family life?

How can love “cover” sin without ignoring wrongdoing?

The Enemy Within: Selfishness

Key Point: Self-centeredness breeds bitterness and disunity.

Reflection:

Identify moments when selfishness disrupted family harmony.

Explore how humility and service can counteract selfish tendencies.

The Call to Mercy and Grace

Key Point: Love chooses mercy over vengeance.

Scripture Reflection:

Compare divine forgiveness with human grace.

Explore how patience with flaws reflects Christ-like love.

Application: What Is a Family To Do?

Poetic Reflection:

Action Steps:

Practice daily acts of love and selflessness.

Create a “Family Love Covenant” with commitments to grace, patience, and forgiveness.

Pray together regularly for unity and understanding.

Closing Prayer

:Ask God to help your family grow in love, overcome selfishness, and extend grace to one another as Christ has done for us.

Standing On The Gospel Of Jesus Christ (Lesson Outline)

 Standing on the Gospel of Jesus Christ

I. Introduction

Aaron Tippin once sang, “You’ve got to stand for something, or you’ll fall for anything.”  

As believers, the most important thing we stand for is the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is our foundation for salvation, our source of peace, and our anchor in trials.

II. Scripture Focus

- Galatians 1:9 – “If anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.”

- Romans 5:1–2 – Justification by faith brings peace with God.

- Ephesians 2:8 – Salvation is by grace through faith.

Main Teaching

The gospel is centered on Jesus Christ—His life, death, and resurrection. Paul warns the Galatians not to accept a distorted gospel that mixes faith with works or tradition. Salvation is not earned; it is received by grace through faith.

The crock pot illustration reminds us: just as tender meat slips off the fork, our works cannot hold up the weight of the law. Only Jesus can satisfy God’s righteousness.

IV. Discussion Questions

1. What does Paul mean by “another gospel” in Galatians 1:9?

2. Why is it dangerous to mix works with grace in our understanding of salvation?

3. How does the crock pot illustration help us grasp the futility of relying on works?

4. According to Romans 5:1–2, what benefits come from being justified by faith?

5. Have you personally responded to the true gospel of Jesus Christ?

V. Prayer Prompt

Lord Jesus, thank You for the gospel of grace. Help me to stand firm in Your truth, not relying on my own efforts, but trusting fully in Your finished work. Give me peace in trials and joy in Your presence. Amen.

VI. Takeaway

The only gospel worth standing on is the one that rests entirely on Jesus—His grace, His sacrifice, and our faith in Him.

The Brooks Of Brownstone (By Gary Patterson)

 John Brooks walked over to the fireplace, and gazed at the photos on the mantle. His daughter Mary walked into the living room, unexpectedly, and asked her father, "Dad, what are you looking at?" The question caught him off guard, but he answered, "Oh, just looking, just reminiscing! "How did you kids grow up so fast?" "It seemed like just yesterday, you were playing with dolls, and having fun in the sandbox!"

"Where did the time go?" Mary considered the question, and responded, "It's  inevitable Dad, it's what kids do! "You didn't expect us to stay little forever did you?"
John answered, "Yes, why would that have been a bad thing?" Mary answered, "Are you saying, you don't like us now that we are grown up?" John, not knowing just how to answer, replied, "You know I am proud of how you and your brother turned out." "Time just seemed to shoot by, and with our busy lives now, we just don't seem to have fun together like we did. "Not to change the subject, but what are you doing here?" "That didn't come out right, I mean, shouldn't you be at the courthouse, defending your client?" "Shouldn't you be at the church, doing what you do?" Mary responded. John remembered that Mary had some regrets about growing up as a PK, a "preacher's kid." "I'm waiting for your mother,  she is supposed to be opening up the day care today." "I tell you what, you talk about time going by fast; where has summer gone?" "Here it is September, and we are needing to get the fall ministry projects going." Mary fell back in the recliner, stretched her legs out, and acted as if she was glad this "church stuff" was not her problem. "Well!" Mary scoffed, "It was your idea to start this, as you call "a mission church." "I don't know why you weren't satisfied with pastoring a regular church? "Why you had to go, and start your own work, is beyond me?" "You don't make as much money as you did before, and now you have to pay for your own health insurance. "When you were pastoring a church, everything was "comfortable", "predictable", "easier." "And God knows, less dangerous." And Mary added, "Those people you meet and try to work with are dangerous!" "I know, I've had to defend some of them!" "What were you thinking, by starting this?" John looked directly at his daughter and replied, "Mary, God did not call me to be involved in a ministry that is "cushy and comfortable." "He called me to a ministry that is to meet peoples'needs!
He called me to a work that is to be evangelistic, and a work that serves the people." "Having a church board breathing down my neck, concerning every program we had going on, and trying to please two hundred people all the time, was not rewarding, or fulfilling, and in the long run, not enjoyable!" Yes, this "mission church" is a challenge, but it is both exciting, and rewarding." "It is what I look forward to, every morning when I get up." "I love helping people, and being there for them." "And I know that you can relate to that, because that is what you enjoy about your job as well." "I know you make really good money, but I also know, that with you, it's not about the money, It's about helping people." "The way I look at it, if we can't make a difference in people's lives, just what real purpose do we have in this life?"
Mary thought for a moment, and responded, "Wow dad, you can get real dramatic in the mornings." "I get it that you want to be more involved, and not wanting
to kiss up to the people in the church, but some of the people out there on the street, can be real problems." "They don't want you to meddle in their lives." "They just want to be left alone in their miserable existence." "If you start to press them, and end up at the wrong place, at the wrong time, they will think nothing of taking your life." "I'm asking dad, is it worth your life?
Before John had an opportunity to respond, his wife Molly came into the living room, and plopped down on the dining room table, a bag of toys, and her sack lunch for her noon meal. She looked over at John and Mary, with a questionable look, and asked, "You guys have the day off today?" "It must be nice to be able to stand around, while the rest of us have work to do!" "What were you guys discussing anyway?" John quickly grabbed his coat, and moved slowly toward the front door, "Nothing that can't be tabled for another time. "Mary, would you lock the door before you leave, your mother and I are headed for work." And oh by the way, you have a great day." Mary, turned to go to the kitchen, and before John and Molly exited out the door, she said, "This subject isn't over, we are going to talk about this!"
And in a short moment, the house was quiet.

Brooklyn Heights is a posh residential area of elegant brownstones. It's known for its tree-lined promenade along the East River, with unrivaled views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. The neighborhood also attracts visitors and local families to the landscaped walkways and playgrounds of waterfront Brooklyn Bridge Park. Locals gather at the longstanding bars and restaurants along Henry Street. (AI)

Why Do We Need Jesus? TCJ eBook (By Gary Patterson)

Letter to Bland Medical Clinic

 To Bland Medical Clinic-VMH

100 Melby St, 

Westby, WI 54667

My name is Gary Patterson. 

I am presently residing at Pierson, Iowa.

Six years ago, my family and I lived in Westby, Wisconsin. At that time I saw, Bernadette Adams for my medical needs.

I am writing to let you know that my family and I are in the process of moving back to Viroqua, Wisconsin, in the middle of April, 2025. My request in this letter, is to see if Bernadette is still practicing there at the Bland Medical Clinic. And If she is, I would like for her to look at my recent files, and see the medical need I have right now.

Recently, I admitted myself to the ER, at the Mercy Medical Hospital, in Sioux City, Iowa, where In the process of testing, they found a mass in my prostate bed. I know this is an urgent matter, that will need attention, as soon as we relocate to Viroqua, WI, in a few days. Is there a urologist, that I could see to address this problem? In the mean time, I will send any information that is needed to prepare for a consultation with a urologist in the Viroqua/Westby area.

You can email me concerning this at:

garypat53@gmail.com (or) call me at:

608-632-9139 

Thank you very much!

Gary Patterson

TCJ September 2024 Calendar

 

Feeling Like We Belong

 The Christian Journeyman Walk-Line

Feeling Like We Belong

"For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit."
(1 Corinthians 12:13)
".....Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God." (Romans 15:7)

Walk-Line: As Christians, who are in one Spirit, baptized into one body, no matter the ethnicity, we are made to drink on one Spirit. And we are to welcome one another, just as Christ has welcomed us. Here is the question: Are you made to feel welcome in the Christian community you are trying to join? Yes, Jesus welcomes you, but to the believers you surround yourself with, do they make you feel like you are one of the family, or as an outcast?
To many churches develop cliques, that make up small groups of people who are not friendly towards others. If we are to achieve the unity Jesus prayed we would have, we need to welcome everyone to ourselves, and make everyone in our fellowship feel, wanted, needed, and cared for. GP

Do you feel welcome in the Christian
Community you share?
Are you showing love and concern, for
fellow Christians, with the burdens they must bear.
We are to be one in the Spirit, one in Christ,
in God's Word we are told.
There is to be no question, that we are to feel like we belong, as God's sheep in His Fold.
___g/Patterson

The Christian Journeyman Walk-Line
2024 All Rights Reserved.

A Critical Community

 The Christian Journeyman Walk-Line

Pastor Gary Patterson
"A Critical Community"

"Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony."
(Colossians 3:12-14)

Walk-Line: How can churches today keep from becoming "critical communities?"
The apostle Paul, in writing to the believers at Colossae, tells them (and us) what spiritual clothing we are to wear. That would be compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, bearing with one another, not complaining against one another, and forgiving one another. And above all, we are to put on love. The result,  because of love, will be a harmony, and a unity, the world needs to see. Instead of being a "critical community, we will be a caring community; making a difference in each other's lives. GP

There is no need
to be a critical community,
where words of criticism and complaint
abide.
What is needed
is to be a caring community,
where love, and compassion thrive.
___g/Patterson

The Christian Journeyman Walk-Line
2024 All Rights Reserved.

Moments For Marriage (By Gary Patterson)

 MOMENTS FOR MARRIAGE (By Gary Patterson) 

Here is a collection of post-articles from The Christian Journeyman Blog-site that has some encouragement for married couples today. 

Table Of Contents: 

Together Forever 
Dwelling Together
The Apostle Paul's Relationship Triangle
Dumping Divorce
Love Is Something We Do 

TOGETHER FOREVER 

Matthew 19:5-6  

What do Canadian geese and Swans have to say to married couples today? Jesus said: "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."(Matthew 19:6) Here in this post-article, we look at what Jesus has to say to married couples today!

(Jesus' words)"...and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.” (Matthew 19:5-6) "Canada geese (and swans) do mate for life. Mated pairs not only raise and protect their young together, but also look out for one another over the course of their lives. One mate will stay by the other's side if injured or dying, even if the rest of the flock is moving on. They are extremely devoted to one another." (canadageese.org/faq4.html)

God's Word is not the only source for God's intent for the marriage of a man and woman. Nature shows us that God intends for a man and woman to join together for life. "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate." (Matthew 19:6b) My grandparents and my parents took their vows seriously. They stayed together all through the years of their married life, Today, selfishness takes its toll on marriage relationships. If it is all about me, and all about what I want, then marriage becomes one-sided. It is the balance of love and compromise, and the desire to be obedient to the will of God, that helps a marriage to endure through the years, and yes, for life! GP 

Photo by imagerymajestic. Published on 10 June 2012 www.freedigitalphotos.net

DWELLING TOGETHER 

I Peter 3:7

If there is one thing that is missing in our society today, it is mutual respect and consideration. Selfishness has become too saturated and dominant in our society today. If we see it strongly displayed in marriage, it's no wonder we see it standing out, in society. 

"Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered." (1 Peter 3:7) 

If there is one thing that is missing in our society today, it is mutual respect and consideration. Selfishness has become too saturated and dominant in our society today. If we see it strongly displayed in marriage, it's no wonder we see it standing out, in society.

In 1 Peter 3, Peter has good advice for both husbands and wives. How do you dwell with each other? How can you have your life together be as good as it can be?

Peter uses these single words to help those in marriage understand how to have unity and stability in their life together. Let's begin with the wife. Peter uses the word "submissive" (3:1, 5) In our culture today, that word seems to be an ugly word. It is not a word that infers inferiority, but from the military standpoint, it has the meaning of rank and responsibility. The wife is to place herself under the love and care of her husband, to help him in what he is responsible for, in regards to marriage and the family.

Now to the husbands, Peter uses the word "understanding" (3:7) The husband is to be understanding, and show consideration, not selfishness and disregard. He is to put his wife's needs before His own. Just as Jesus loved the church (His bride) and gave His life for it, the love that the husband is to have for his wife, is sacrificial.

Two words of insight (from the apostle Peter) for couples as they "dwell together."  GP

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THE APOSTLE PAUL'S RELATIONSHIP TRIANGLE 

THE APOSTLE PAUL'S RELATIONSHIP TRIANGLE

1 Corinthians 13:13 

There are different illustrations of what is called: "The Relationship Triangle" The one the Apostle Paul describes, in our text, is one that not only speaks to the priority elements of a successful relationship, but to the marks of spiritual maturity. 

"And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love." (1 Corinthians 13:13) 

There are different illustrations of what is called: "The Relationship Triangle" The one the Apostle Paul describes, in our text, is one that not only speaks to the priority elements of a successful relationship, but to the marks of spiritual maturity.

When we are talking about the marriage relationship, "The foundational Relationship Triangle" is seeing God at the top of the triangle, and the husband and wife at the two bottom points of the triangle. A marriage cannot be a success without God being the main point person, of this relationship.

Than to complete the star formation, we can add "The Relationship Triangle" Paul speaks of in our text. He speaks of "Love" as being the supreme virtue in all of our relationships. There is no room for selfishness in any relationship. And at the next point of the triangle is "Faith." As we trust God, we must trust each other, and be faithful to each other. And than the last point of the triangle is "Hope" Hope is always focused on the positive things, concerning our relationships, and for our future together.

All of this applies to help our relationship with God, and with others, be the best that it can be. With God, and love, being the top points of these two triangles, it demonstrates what should be the most important priorities in our lives. The question is: are they? GP

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DUMPING DIVORCE 

"Now to the married I command, yet not I but the Lord; A wife is not to depart from her husband. But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is not to divorce his wife." (1 Corinthians 7:10-11) 

Marriage, by the command of our Lord Jesus Christ, is for life. "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate." (Matthew 19:6b) 

I believe that many couples lose sight of their responsibility to God in this precious institution. It is in what God has brought together; and it is what He can keep together.

Is it an accident that a man and a woman meet, fall in love, and desire to live together, the rest of their days? Is it ever the consideration that during those days, that God is the third person involved? Why is it that when problems arise (critical in a marriage) we choose to separate, instead of placing ourselves under the direction of God. What He has joined together, He has joined to Himself. When we cut ourselves from each other, we cut ourselves from God as well.

It is amazing what the study of God's Word, and prayer, and fellowship with other Christian couples, can do for a marriage. It may not be the easy way, but it is the best way. And when you have an older couple, who have kept their commitment to Jesus Christ. as mentors, this is a very beneficial support.

We need to dump divorce, and keep our marriages in connection with the One who can, and will, provide the principles and provisions, to keep it together for a lifetime. GP

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LOVE IS SOMETHING WE DO

And you shall love the Lord your God, with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength." (Deuteronomy 6:5) 

I remember a song that was recorded by Clint Black entitled:"Something That We Do" 

The most important relationship of our lives, is our relationship with God, our Heavenly Father. And with every relationship, the words of this song recorded by Clint Black apply. It's not enough to just say the words, "I Love You", but those words need to be backed up by our actions. 

If we love God, with all of our heart, soul, and strength, than our actions will prove, we mean what we say. Our actions are to contain obedience to God's Word. If we love God, we will be obedient to His Word. There will not be any room for what we feel is best, or to compromise God's Word, in order to please those around us. Loving God, is obeying God, with no hesitation or doubt. 

Much of the sin we commit, is because we love our own desires, passions, and gratifications. And instead of disciplining our minds, and our bodies, to be in line with the will of God, we choose to give in to our weaknesses, and sin against God. In all of our thoughts, words, and actions, are we showing that our love for God is fervent, and steadfast? Yes, Love is not just in what we say, but in what we do! GP

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