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    I have a burden, a burden for marriages that are in trouble. Can God save a marriage that seems headed for divorce court? I really believe he can.

    Margaret Carlson describes a romantic scene a restaurant in New Orleans. A handsome young man hides a ten carat diamond engagement ring in his girlfriend’s desert. When he sees her scoop up the sparkling ring, he asks, “Will you marry me?”

“Do you mean really, really marry you?”

    She looks deep into his eyes and asks, “Do you mean really, really marry you?”

    Why would she say that? In Lousiana they have a marriage commitment called covenant marriage. Engaged couples can choose between an old easy way out version and the new, no way out marriage commitment.

    I’ve been an elder in a church for fourteen years and I’ve agonized over families I know who have been ripped apart by divorce. If you’ve never been married, let me urge you to think long and hard before you enter this serious covenant. Commit your life to Jesus Christ. Only marry somebody who loves Jesus Christ more than he or she loves you.

    Now if you’re already married, but you’re thinking about leaving, stop, pray, and decide to keep your covenant and ask God to help you.

    For resources on life and faith call 1 (800) 759-3000 or email herald@abilene.com. Several booklets Randy is offering free this month deal with the following subjects:

• Helping Children Cope with Their Cancer
• When Today Means Pain
• Knowing How to Pray for Others
• Suffering and the God of Jesus

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