12 KEYS TO A WIFE'S/WOMAN'S HEART - WIN HER AND KEEP HER - (KEYS 10 - 12) Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part XII

No it's not money that are the keys to a good woman's heart but a lot of what is presented for entertainment purposes only could convince you otherwise. Not to mention the songs, variety of rap lyrics and publications

which have portrayed opportunistic women as gold diggers. While economic ability in men is required by God, (even if your talent is small), it is not the only character quality that the Creator intends should be one of the keys to obtaining the pure affections of a woman's heart.

10. A COMPANION WITH PURE MANLY TRAITS

Many who have grown to the years and stature of manhood are deficient in the elements that constitute a noble, manly character. God does not regard them as men. They are not reliable. Let a young woman accept as a life companion only one who possesses pure, manly traits of character, one who is diligent, aspiring, and honest, one who loves and fears God. (1 Corinthians 13:11/Proverbs 13:5,10:4/Luke 8:15)

What does it mean to be manly ? Every effort made to break away from the power of a bad habit is manly. To sin is unmanly; to indulge in injurious habits of eating and drinking is weak, cowardly, debased; but to deny perverted appetite is strong, brave, noble. It is manly to do right. (Ephesians 4:24/Proverbs 12:3/Philippians 2:8/Job 17:9)

11. TO BE DESIRED; TO BE EMBRACED, HELD, TOUCHED AND KISSED IN PRIVACY

I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me. His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me. (Song of Solomon 7:10,2:6) Husbands and wives should feel it their privilege and their duty to reserve for the privacy of each other's society the interchange of love tokens between themselves. His left hand should be under my head, and his right hand should embrace me. Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth... (Song of Solomon 8:3,1:2)“...rejoice with the wife of thy youth. Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. And, what exactly does the word ravished mean ? RAVISHED means delighted to ecstasy. Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest. (Ecclesiastes 9:9 12)

12. A HUSBAND WHO SUBMITS TO CHRIST

The husband who stands as the head of his wife as Christ stands as the head of His church, who loves his wife as he loves his own body, and cherishes and nourishes her as Christ the church, will not act in a way to destroy either his own powers or the powers of his wife. But it was not the design of God that the husband should have control, as head of the house, when he himself does not submit to Christ. He must be under the rule of Christ that he may represent the relation of Christ to church. If he is a coarse, rough, boisterous, egotistical, harsh, and overbearing man, let him never utter the word that the husband is the head of the wife, and that she must submit to him in everything; for he is not the Lord, he is not the husband in the true significance of the term. That man is not fit to stand as the head of his wife who does not realize his obligations to God to purify himself even as He is pure, and to present his body to God a living sacrifice.

When the Spirit of Christ controls the husband, the wife's subjection will only result in rest and benefit, for he will require from her only that which will result in good, and in the same way that Christ requires submission from the church. (Mark 9:35/Luke 14:11/Colossians 3:18/Ephesians 5:28/1 John 3:3)

EXCELLENCE OF CHARACTER IN A MAN

All that makes men manly, or women womanly, is reflected from the character of Christ. In the beginning God created man a gentleman, which means a man who can do work cheerfully. When the Spirit of God is in man, it leads him to relieve rather than to create suffering. To be a man before the Lord is to be kind and sympathetic. It is to be compassionate and Christlike. The true man is one who is willing to sacrifice his own interest for the good of others and who exercises himself in binding up the brokenhearted. God's standard of man is elevated to the highest meaning of the term, and if he acts up to his God-given manhood he will promote happiness in this life, which will lead to glory and an eternal reward in the life to come To obey God's commandments is to do right and only right. This is Christian manliness. The right which one has to claim to be a man is determined by the use made of his intellect. Man's words, if of any value, echo the words of God. God has made man capable of constant progress in everything that constitutes mental and moral dignity. No other creature of his hand is capable of such advancement. Man can reach an eminence in self-control and dignity that will raise him above the slavery of appetite and passion, where he can stand before God as a man, his name written in the books of heaven. (Genesis 5:2/Galatians 3:28/Philippians 2:5/2 Corinthians 5:17/1 Peter 4:11/Luke 1:6/Revelation 22:14/1 Timothy 6:11)

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post. Have a wonderful weekend in Christ.

You have just been reading from pages 12 and 13 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

12 KEYS TO A WIFE'S/WOMAN'S HEART - WIN HER AND KEEP HER - (KEYS 7 - 9) Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part XI

The entertainment industry has provided modern society with a Superman, Batman, Spiderman and Iron Man as heroes. The Christian man will not be starring in any role as one of Hollywood's heroes because his character qualities are the opposite of what the world generally admires. While it is true that physical strength and intelligence are qualities that may make a man attractive to a woman, these alone do not define the kind of man that God intends should obtain the pure affections of a woman's heart. In this post, we continue looking at keys 7-9 which would entitle him to her love according to God's plan for marriage and relationships. Please take special care to notice the connections between health and character. Think you'll see this kind of man as the hero in a movie..???

7. A MEEK AND PATIENT HUSBAND

Meekness is the inward adorning, which God estimates as of great price. The apostle speaks of this as more excellent and valuable than gold or pearls or costly array. While the outward adorning beautifies only the mortal body, the ornament of meekness adorns the soul and connects finite man with the infinite God. This is the ornament of God's own choice. He who garnished the heavens with the orbs of light has by the same Spirit promised that "he will beautify the meek with salvation" (Psalm 149:4). Angels of heaven will register as best adorned those who put on the Lord Jesus Christ and walk with Him in meekness and lowliness of mind.

No man can be a Christian without having the spirit of Christ, manifesting meekness, gentleness, and refinement of manners. The husband should maintain his position in his family with all meekness, yet with decision. Meekness is a precious grace, willing to suffer silently, willing to endure trials. Meekness is patient and labors to be happy under all circumstances. Meekness is always thankful and makes its own songs of happiness, making melody in the heart to God. Nothing tends more to promote health of body and of soul than does a spirit of gratitude and praise. Meekness will suffer disappointment and wrong, and will not retaliate.

Meekness is not to be silent and sulky. To be meek is not to surrender our rights; but it is the preservation of self-control under provocation to give way to anger or to the spirit of retaliation. Under the influence of meekness, kindness, and gentleness, an atmosphere is created that will heal and not destroy. One smile of pleasure, one peaceful, approving word spoken in the spirit of meekness, would be a power to soothe, to comfort, and to bless. It is no evidence of manliness in the husband for him to dwell constantly upon his position as head of the family. It does not increase respect for him to hear him quoting Scripture to sustain his claims to authority. Wherever the power of intellect, of authority, or of force is employed, and love is not manifestly present, the affections and will of those whom we seek to reach assume a defensive, repelling position, and their strength of resistance is increased. Any show of power without love only causes a person to close their heart and resist. (Matthew 11:29/Colossians 3:12/2 Timothy 2:25/James 3:13/1 Peter 3:4)

8. A HUSBAND WHO CAN CONTROL HIMSELF

Before a man enters a union as close as the marriage relation, he should learn how to control himself and how to deal with others. If they fulfill the words of Christ, their love will not be of a base, earthly, sensual character that will lead to the destruction of their own bodies and bring upon their wives debility and disease. Uncontrolled passion is not strength, but weakness. When the passions are indulged, the blood, instead of circulating to all parts of the body, thereby relieving the heart and clearing the mind, is called in undue amount to the internal organs. Disease comes as the result. All the passions of man, if properly controlled and rightly directed, will contribute to his physical and moral health, and insure to him a great amount of happiness. The husband is to be as a Saviour in his family. We cannot reveal a Saviour, of whom we have no knowledge. If we have not in our character the precious attributes of Christ, if we do not cherish His meekness, patience, longsuffering, kindness, and love, we may profess to know Christ, but we know Him not. (Proverbs 25:28/Galatians 5:22,23/Romans 8:7/1 Corinthians 9:27)

9. A KIND AFFECTIONATE HUSBAND

The husband is to be kind and affectionate. He is to love his wife as a part of himself, and to cherish her as Christ does his Church. Many men love their wives, but are too selfish to manifest it. They have a false dignity and pride, and will not show their love by words and deeds. There are many men who never know how starved is the heart of the wife for words of tender appreciation and affection. They bury their loved ones from their sight and murmur at the providence of God that has deprived them of their companions, when, could they look into the inner life of those companions, they would see that their own course was the cause of their premature death. Infirmities and disease especially affect women. The more closely we are united with Jesus Christ, the more tender and affectionate will be our conduct toward one another. (Romans 12:10/Ephesians 4:32, 5:28,29)

By the grace of God, we will continue with the next 3 keys in another post. Have a wonderful weekend in Christ.

You have just been reading from pages 11 and 12 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

12 KEYS TO A WIFE'S/WOMAN'S HEART - WIN HER AND KEEP HER - (KEYS 3 - 6) Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part X

Hollywood movies continue to belittle the legitimate needs and desires of men and women of which the Creator Himself is author. Is there any wonder why so many are or have been in so many broken relationships. The entertainment industry does not provide instructions. In this post, we continue looking at the character qualities of the kind of man that would be able to obtain the pure affections of a woman's heart. One who would be entitled to her love according to God's plan for marriage and relationships.

3. AN INTERESTED TENDER HUSBAND

Wherever the love of Jesus reigns there is pitying tenderness and thoughtfulness of others. While women want men of strong and noble characters, whom they can respect and love, these qualities need to be mingled with tenderness and affection, patience and forbearance. When the nature of man is renewed by grace, he will be full of tenderness, sympathy, and love. The tenderness and mercy that Christ has revealed in His own precious life will be seen in those who become sharers of His grace. Communion with Christ imparts to them tenderness of heart; there will be sympathy in their looks, in the tones of the voice. The words that fall from their lips are molded into expressions of Christlike tenderness and love. Many women pine for words of love and kindness and the common attentions and courtesies due them from their husbands who have selected them as their life companions. That which brings sickness of body and mind to nearly all is dissatisfied feelings and discontented repinings. Kind, cheerful, and encouraging words will prove more effective than the most healing medicines. (Ephesians 4:32/Psalms 145:8/1 Peter 3:8/Luke 7:13/Proverbs 12:18,13:12)

4. A NOBLE HUSBAND WHO SPEAKS WORDS OF COMFORT AND SEEKS TO KEEP HIS WIFE HEALTHY

Noble - of an excellent disposition; elevated

No one can try to be like Christ without growing more noble and more true. When the husband has the nobility of character, purity of heart, elevation of mind, that every true Christian must possess, it will be made manifest in the marriage relation. He will seek to keep his wife in health and courage. He will strive to speak words of comfort, to create an atmosphere of peace in the home circle. Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones. (Proverbs 16:24) Of all the gifts which God has given to man, none is more noble or a greater blessing than the gift of speech, if it is sanctified by the Holy Spirit. (James 3:2/Colossians 4:6/Proverbs 18:21,15:26/Psalms 118:15)

Wherever there is purity of heart and nobleness of character, it will be revealed in purity and nobility of action and speech. A man shows that he has true wisdom by using the talent of speech to produce music in the souls of those who are trying to do their appointed work, and who are in need of encouragement. A noble nature does not exult in causing others pain, or delight in discovering their deficiencies. The highest evidence of nobility in a Christian is self-control. The greatness and nobility of a man are measured, not by the power of his feelings to subdue him, but by his power to subdue them. (Luke 6:45/Psalms 37:30/Proverbs 10:32,15:28)

5. AN INDUSTRIOUS HUSBAND THAT SUPPORTS HIS FAMILY AND SHARES HIS MONEY

The husband should cultivate industrious habits, doing his best to support his family. This will lead his wife to have respect for him. In order to maintain health, a sufficient supply of good, nourishing food is needed. As far as possible, every member of the family should be supplied with suitable clothing, sufficient for health and comfort in the changes of weather that are liable to occur. In some instances the husband proves to be too indolent to provide for a family, and his wife and children suffer. (Proverbs 19:24) None who are able to labor should be taught to expect food and clothing and shelter free of cost. (1 Timothy 5:8/2 Thessalonians 3:10/Ecclesiastes 10:18)

One of the first laws of the being is that of action. Every organ of the body has its appointed work, upon the development of which depends its strength. The normal action of all the organs gives vigor and life; inaction brings decay and death. Inaction of any of the organs of the body will be followed by a decrease in size and strength of the muscles, and will cause the blood to flow sluggishly through the blood-vessels. Had happiness consisted in doing nothing, man in his state of holy innocence would have been left unemployed. But he who formed man, knew what would be for his best happiness, and he no sooner created him than he gave him his appointed work. A life of useful labor is indispensable to the physical, mental, and moral well-being of man. It is impossible for us to enjoy health without labor. While excessive labor destroys physical and mental vigor, do-nothings rust from inaction. (Proverbs 10:16,12:24,21:25/Romans 12:11/Ecclesiastes 2:24)

Give your wife a share of the money that you receive. Let her have this as her own, and let her use it as she desires. Money is a constant test of the affections. (Acts 20:35/1 Peter 3:7)

6. A PROTECTOR

Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. (Proverbs 30:5) Eve was created from a rib taken from the side of Adam, signifying that she was not to control him as the head, nor to be trampled under his feet as an inferior, but to stand by his side as an equal, to be loved and protected by him. The Lord has constituted the husband the head of the wife to be her protector... to protect means to cover or shield from danger or injury; to defend; to guard; to preserve in safety. This is a husband’s duty. (Psalms 82:3/Ephesians 5:25)

You have just been reading from pages 9 and 10 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

CLUES - HINTS AND TIPS FOR MEN ABOUT WOMEN - Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part IX

Although there are some men who seem to have a naturally kind disposition toward women, this is not true for every man. Not every man knows how to treat a woman or court a lady. None of us are necessarily born with all the right qualifications as candidates for successful relationships and especially is this true with regard to marriage. However, even if we don't plan to marry or remarry, somewhere along life's way we need to learn what kind of person it takes to make someone else beside ourselves happy. This post speaks to married, marrying or remarrying men but can easily apply to any man in a relationship with a woman. Please take special care to note the relationship between a woman's health and the treatment she receives. In future posts, we will also look at the other side of the relationship equation, "What A Husband/Man Needs - 12 Keys To His Heart - Win Him And Keep Him."

but for right now we are looking at....

WHAT A WIFE/WOMAN NEEDS - 12 KEYS TO HER HEART - WIN HER AND KEEP HER

1. A HUSBAND THAT SHOWS APPRECIATION FOR HER

The husband should let his wife know that he appreciates her work. Let your wife be the object of your special and hearty attention. When you feel as God would have you, you will feel lost without the society of your wife. Only let a woman realize that she is appreciated by her husband and is precious to him, not merely because she is useful and convenient in his house, but because she is a part of himself, and she will respond to his affection and reflect the love bestowed upon her. The husband should show his wife that he appreciates her. Why is the expression of appreciation so important ? The consciousness of being appreciated is a wonderful stimulus and satisfaction. To appreciate means to value and to be appreciated is one of life’s most satisfying joys. Satisfying joys will give vigor to the mind and health and vital energy to the body. (Proverbs 12:25,31:10-12/Psalms 51:8/Ephesians 5:25,28/1 Corinthians 6:20)

2. CONSTANT CAREFUL FAITHFUL ATTENTION, LOVE, SYMPATHY AND COMPASSION

Husbands should be careful, attentive, constant, faithful, and compassionate. They should manifest love and sympathy. Many a wife has sickened and died prematurely for the want of encouraging words of sympathy and love manifested in kindly attentions and in words. Nothing is so fruitful a cause of disease as depression, gloominess, and sadness. Sadness deadens the circulation in the blood vessels and nerves and also retards the action of the liver. It hinders the process of digestion and of nutrition, and has a tendency to dry up the marrow [interior substance] of the whole system. A husband needs to realize, “He can shut the door against much disease. Courage, hope, faith, sympathy, love, promote health and prolong life. (Proverbs 17:22,15:13,12:18,16:24/ Lamentations 2:11)

Sympathy and respect encourage the striving after excellence. God has so constituted us that even the strongest desire sympathy. Love your wife. She is hungering for deep, true, elevating love. Let her have tangible proof that her care and interest for you, shown in her attention to your comfort, is appreciated and returned. Seek her opinion and approval in whatever you engage in. Respect her judgment. Do not feel that you know all that is worth knowing. (Mark 5:19/Zechariah 7:9/Matthew 20:34)

By the grace of God, we will continue with the other 10 keys in other posts. Have a wonderful weekend in Christ.

T.K.

© 2009 Tyrone Keels

www.issues-of-life.com

You have just been reading from page 8 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

SHOW ME SOME LOVE - AFFECTIONS & THE PURPOSE OF A HUSBAND - Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part VIII

What a tragedy that modern entertainment and publishers mock the blueprint for happiness to be found in the marriage relationship. The elusive Mr. Right is ever portrayed as just enough out of reach as to be a tease. According to God, the purpose of the husband is to obtain the pure affections of a woman's heart. One of the ways that he is to do this involves his own conduct. He himself must first give and display pure affection in order to obtain it.

Love begets love and affection begets affection. In order for a man to give pure affection, he must connect with One who is pure - Jesus Christ. Christ alone can purify and sanctify his affections and when He does this, a man's wife is recognized as his first earthly obligation.

When the affections are sanctified, our obligations to God are made primary, everything else secondary. (Galatians 5:24/Colossians 3:2)

And the man who allows his wife to occupy the second place in his affections is dishonoring himself and his God. (Ephesians 5:25)

Ladies listen: he who is not true to his God cannot be true to His wife. You cannot be first in his affections if God is not first in his affections.

Some women don't want a religious man because they think he will not be as charming, appealing or enjoyable. Women generally want a good man who will do what is right but what many of them don't always seem to realize is that no man can be, can do or can stay good and right without a connection to the One who is always good and right. The man may look good and sound good and it may feel right but that cannot last without the influence of Christ in the man's life.

Affection may be as clear as crystal and beauteous in its purity, yet it may be shallow because it has not been tested and tried. Only where Christ reigns can there be a deep, true, unselfish affection Make Christ first and last and best in everything. Constantly behold Him, and your love for Him will daily become deeper and stronger as it is submitted to the test of trial. And as your love for Him increases, your love for each other will grow deeper and stronger. Those who are one with Christ are one with each other. (James 1:12/Romans 8:35,38,39)

The conduct of the husband toward the wife and of the wife toward the husband may be such that it will make the home life a preparation for entrance to the family above. If the husband is tyrannical, exacting, critical of the actions of his wife, he cannot hold her respect and affection, and the marriage relation will become odious to her. She will not love her husband, because he does not try to make himself lovable. (Proverbs 18:24/Matthew 12:30/Ephesians 3:15-19)

Being loving and lovable is the true way to experience love. Men and women generally fail to understand this and consequently suffer much needless heartache and pain as they spend much of their lives focusing on being loved rather than longing to give love. (Acts 20:35)

The husband should read and study the Bible with his wife in his effort to obtain pure affections from her. Why should the husband read and study the Bible with his wife you may ask ? The affections are centered just where the mind is. By contemplation of great truths, the mind is elevated, the affections purified and refined; for the Spirit of God, through the truth of God, quickens the lifeless spiritual faculties, and attracts the soul heavenward. Christ will take charge of the affections of those who love and honor God, causing them to center upon proper objects. (This is the only true safeguard against adultery or any other form of infidelity) The heart that loves Jesus will not desire the unlawful affections of another. (Colossians 3:2/Galatians 5:24/John 12:32/2 Corinthians 10:5)

Unsanctified human affection always misleads, for it beckons in other paths than the way God has pointed out. ( Unsanctified affection is often mistaken as love but it is better described as strong infatuation or lust) (Romans 1:26,31)

The heart should have only pure, sanctified affection, worthy of the followers of Jesus Christ, exalted in its nature, and more heavenly than earthly. Anything different from this is debasing, degrading in courtship; and marriage cannot be holy and honorable in the sight of a pure and holy God, unless it is after the exalted scriptural principle. (Colossians 3:5/Romans 12:10)

God has given men and women affections and intellect that they may appreciate the character of God as it was revealed in the earthly life of Christ, and through faith in Christ reveal the same attributes. (These attributes in the characters of the husband and wife make the marriage life a foretaste of heaven) (1 Corinthians 14:12/Romans 12:2)

Husband and wife are to be faithful to each other so long as life shall last, ever revealing the self sacrifice that leads to the truest happiness and the highest perfection of character. Living for God, the soul sends forth to Him its best and highest affections. Is the greatest outflow of your love toward Him who died for you ? If it is, your love for each other will be after heaven's order. (Mark 10:7-9/Matthew 22:37-39)

It is true that there are many who don't believe in God and yet apparently are able to stay together in relationships and particularly in marriages for what may seem a long time. However, they will never reach the potential or fulfill the purpose of God for their union without Christ. The high, noble, lofty design of God in the institution of marriage is not discerned; therefore the purest affections of the heart, the noblest traits of character are not developed. (Proverbs 30:5/Romans 8:28/Ephesians 5:25-27)

God created man with affections capable of embracing eternal realities. These affections were to be kept pure and holy, free from all earthliness. (Colossians 3:2/John 3:31)

Knowing his own purpose and understanding GOD’s design for marriage, the husband is better prepared to recognize and fulfill the needs in his wife’s heart that GOD created him to fulfill. He must first let Christ take charge in his own life to meet these needs.

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post. Have a wonderful weekend.

T.K.

© 2009 Tyrone Keels

www.issues-of-life.com

You have just been reading from page 7 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

THE GREATEST BATTLE EVER FOUGHT - LOOK IN THE MIRROR - Principles of Victory In The Christian Life - Part VI

The games people play cannot compare to the game of life being played for human souls. Whether we wish to accept it or not, believe it or not or think about it, there is, according to God, a battle being waged for control of the human mind. The outcome of this struggle will result in victory through Christ Jesus over self or the triumph of selfishness in the lives of those who reject the love of God. There is no greater battle to be fought here on earth than the battle with oneself. Consequently, there is no greater or sweeter victory than the victory in triumph over one's self. This is not possible without the grace of God in Jesus Christ. Many sincere souls are seeking and claiming a victory in a war that they have not been called to fight. The Christian warfare is chiefly with his fallen sinful nature as he is empowered and inspired by the Holy Spirit to do valiant battle against self. Let us consider victory in this post.

VICTORY - the defeat of an enemy or opponent

The greatest victories to the church of Christ or to the individual Christian are not those that are gained by talent or education, by wealth or the favor of men. They are those victories that are gained in the audience chamber with God, when earnest, agonizing faith lays hold upon the mighty arm of power. (1 Corinthians 15:57/1 John 5:4/1 Peter 3:12)

Prayer brings Jesus to our side, and gives to the fainting, perplexed soul new strength to overcome the world, the flesh, and the devil. Prayer turns aside the attacks of Satan. (Psalms 6:9/Psalms 102:17/Proverbs 15:29/James 5:16)

The true Christian has willingly chosen to engage in a warfare that is really a struggle within his or herself between two natures - the selfish carnal mind against the spiritual character of Christ. The Christian life is a battle and a march. But the victory to be gained is not won by human power. The field of conflict is the domain of the heart. The battle which we have to fight--the greatest battle that was ever fought by man--is the surrender of self to the will of God, the yielding of the heart to the sovereignty of love. The old nature, born of blood and of the will of the flesh, can not inherit the kingdom of God. The hereditary tendencies, the formed habits, must be given up. (Psalms 85:15/1 Timothy 6:12/Ephesians 6:11-18/1 Corinthians 6:9,10)

Victories are frequently lost through delays. Defeat today prepares the way for still greater defeat tomorrow; victory today ensures an easier victory tomorrow. Obedience to God is sure to bring the victory. (Psalms 119:60/Romans 6:16/Hebrews 5:8.9/Philippians 2:8.9/Acts 5:32)

Victory is not found in shunning trials--getting rid of them--but in meeting them heroically, enduring them patiently. Through the grace of Christ, by courage, by faith, by watchfulness, we may gain the victory. We need to repent constantly, that we may be constantly victorious. When we have true humility, we have victory. (James 1:2/1 Peter 4:12-16,3:17/2 Corinthians 7:10,11)

If you have made mistakes, you certainly gain a victory if you see these mistakes and regard them as beacons of warning. Thus you turn defeat into victory, disappointing the enemy and honoring your Redeemer. (Revelation 2:5,7,14-17,20, 25,26, 3:2,3,5,15,18,21)

Man's efforts alone are nothing but worthlessness; but cooperation with Christ means a victory. The power of God is the one element of efficiency in the grand work of obtaining the victory over the world, the flesh, and the devil. Victory is sure when self is surrendered to God. (James 4:6,7/Romans 1:16/2 Timothy 1:9/)

The principalities and powers of earth are in bitter revolt against the God of heaven. They are filled with hatred against all who serve Him, and soon, very soon, is to be fought the last great battle between good and evil. The earth is to be the battlefield--the scene of the final contest and the final victory. (Ephesians 6:12/Revelation 16:13,14)

Those who are finally victorious will have seasons of terrible perplexity and trial in their religious life; but they must not cast away their confidence, for this is a part of their discipline in the School of Christ, and it is essential in order that all dross may be purged away. (Acts 14:22/Hebrews 10:35,36/James 1:12/2 timothy 3:12/John 16:33)

God and the angels rejoice over every victory gained by the Christian, but when temptation overcomes the soul, there is sorrow in heaven. The Christian life is a life of warfare, of continual conflict. It is a battle and a march. But every act of obedience to Christ, every act of self-denial for His sake, every trial well endured, every victory gained over temptation, is a step in the march to the glory of final victory. (Luke 15:7,10/Proverbs 4:18/2 Timothy 4:7,8)

It is not the will of our heavenly Father that so many would be deceived concerning salvation and eternal life in these last days. While GOD loves everyone and will forgive anyone HE does not change our character against our will or without our cooperation.

A Christ-like character is the only kind of character that could enjoy heaven and a Christ-like character is the only kind of character that could be trusted in heaven.

We are given a life-time, (be it long or short) to cooperate with God in developing a Christ-like character for eternal life in heaven. It begins with the new birth experience.

Ask Jesus Christ to come into your life today and to begin the work of changing you for heaven. Confess your sins and acknowledge your need of Him. He loves you and wants the privilege of enjoying friendship with you forever.

© 2009 Tyrone Keels

www.issues-of-life.com

You have just been reading from page 6 of a booklet entitled, "Principles of Victory in the Christian Life" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blogs... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

WINNING A HEART VERSUS STEALING AFFECTIONS - THE PURPOSE OF A HUSBAND - Marriage Counseling With The Wondeful Counselor - Part VII

THE PURPOSE OF THE HUSBAND IS TO OBTAIN THE PURE AFFECTIONS OF A WOMAN’S HEART

OBTAINING THE PURE AFFECTIONS

Affection - a zealous (enthusiastic) attachment ADEL

Are you attached to someone or have feelings of attachment to someone ? That is affection. How did you get there ? Were you won by character qualities or were your affections stolen without you understanding how it happened ? Communication of some sort certainly played a role. Is it a physical thing ? It is nothing unusual for a man to obtain the affections of a woman’s heart. It happens all the time. For an impure man to obtain the impure affections of a woman’s heart is a great tragedy. Yet, when a pure man obtains the pure affections of a woman’s heart, it is a miracle of the grace of GOD in JESUS CHRIST. How is it a miracle do you ask ? Only God can make a human heart pure.

Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin ? (PROVERBS 20:9) Obviously, no man or woman can make such a claim. The human heart and the affections that stream out of it are not naturally pure and clean. The fountain of the heart must be purified before the streams can become pure. And just what is it that makes a heart pure or impure in God's view of things ? Foul and explicit language or indiscreet or perverted acts of sexual expression do not make a heart impure. These are just the outward evidence testifying that the heart is impure. So what is it that makes a heart pure or impure according to God ? Selfish or unselfish motives. An impure heart is ruled by selfish motives and a pure heart is generally guided by unselfish motives under the influence of the Holy Spirit. Consequently, it may be understood that all failed relationships share a common bond - selfishness.

Whenever the motives are selfish for obtaining another person's affections, it will ultimately result in emotional confusion and pain.

God does not bless selfishness and He is constantly exerting an influence upon our thoughts and feelings - upon our very consciences to lead us away from it. No one in heaven lives for self and no one controlled by selfishness will ever be permitted to live there throughout eternity.

The husband will have no assurance that his own affections are pure or that he is obtaining the pure affections of his wife’s heart unless he knows that both their hearts are being made pure by the presence of CHRIST. How do we reach this conclusion ? Their affections are not naturally pure because their hearts are not naturally pure. The heart of no human being is naturally pure. This is hard truth for some to accept and often proves to be a crossroads for many when challenged to receive Jesus Christ as personal Lord and Savior.

The heart must be purified and sanctified. If the feelings of the natural heart are not restrained and brought into subjection by the sanctifying influence of the grace of God received through the channel of faith, the thoughts of the heart are not pure and holy. The heart must be cleansed from its impurity. (Psalms 51:2/1 Timothy 1:5/1 John 1:9, 3:2,3/1 Peter 1:22/2 Corinthians 7:1)

Nothing but repentance and faith can make an impure heart pure. Through faithful, thorough confession of sin, the heart is cleansed from its moral impurity. (1 John 1:9) God intended the marriage relationship to be a foretaste of heaven. Heaven is pure and holy, and those who pass thru the gates of the city of God must be clothed with inward and outward purity. (Matthew 5:8/Revelation 21:27/Psalms 24:3,4)

Pure affections come from a pure heart. By making CHRIST first in their affections, the hearts of both the husband and wife will be made purer and purer and drawn closer together.

Let the affections first center in Christ, pass through the right channel, be purified by his Spirit, then they will lead to a yearning of soul for each other... Pure and holy affection is not a feeling, but a principle. If the heart is glowing with the love of God, there will be pure affection... (Colossians 3:1,2/Romans 12:10/Galatians 5:24/2 Timothy 2:22)

Thought question: What if the heart is not glowing with the love of GOD, can there be pure affection between two people ?

The purpose of the husband is to obtain the pure affections of a woman's heart. (Ephesians 5:25,26) He is to win and continue winning the pure affections of her heart. Winning a heart is better than stealing affections and in the long run provides the foundation for a more secure and enduring relationship. Modern society makes no distinction between winning and stealing when it comes to hearts and affection but God does and it is still addressed by the 8th commandment - "Thou shalt not steal" (Exodus 20:15)

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post. Have a wonderful weekend.

T.K.

© 2009 Tyrone Keels

www.issues-of-life.com

You have just been reading from page 6 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

SPECIAL REPORT: SWINE FLU SURVIVORS - WITHOUT VACCINATIONS - Health Instead of Disease Series - Part II

We had it last week. That's right. The swine flu. H1N1 virus. At least 7 out of the 9 symptoms. No diarrhea or vomiting. Mild nausea. Definitely respiratory. The whole family. And we're still here by the grace of God.

Could have easily been infected with it through contact with the public which is part of my job. In the interest of safeguarding the identity and privacy of family members, I don't mention names or ages. I will say, however, that I don't have children who are 2 years old or 5 years old or under 8; the ones being identified as being in the risk groups.

WE DID NOT TAKE ANY VACCINATIONS

Initially, I did not think it was anything more than a common cold when family members were telling me about their symptoms. But as the amount of symptoms increased and tended to linger a bit, I decided to pursue a more aggressive approach to assist the body to heal itself. Here's what we used.

I gave 3 capsules of the herb Cat's Claw (immune system stimulator) to family members.

It was given in 1/4 cup of orange juice that had 1 packet of Emergen - C dissolved in it.

I also gave 3 capsules of Kyolic (garlic in powder form) to them.

I also gave 3 capsules of GOLDENSEAL (antibiotic and digestive tonic) in a separate 1/4 cup of water. Goldenseal is a very powerful antibiotic and digestive tonic. Check with your doctor if you have pre-existing conditions. I repeated this the next day.

It took about 12 hours and symptoms were pretty much gone. They are definitely all gone today - 3 days later. That's it. Bear in mind that the 8 laws of health must be followed as well. I drank plenty of water and even went outside to get fresh air.

Sure...there are many other ways to overcome the H1N1 using natural remedies and we even had some suggestions from friends and acquaintances. I just wanted to try one particular way to see if it would work and it did. No drug medications or vaccinations were used.

For by thy sorceries were all nations deceived. (Revelation 18:23)

In the book of Revelation in the Bible, the word sorceries comes from the greek word - pharmakeia

The word pharmakeia is where we get our word pharmacy from. Here is the entry in the Strong's Bible concordance.

Strong's number 5331 // farmakeia // pharmakeia // far-mak-i'-ah //

from 5332 ; n f

AV - sorcery 2, witchcraft 1; 3

1) the use or the administering of drugs

2) poisoning

According to the Bible, in the last days, many people will be deceived and poisoned by a modern form of sorcery called drug medication.

Drugs never cure. They only change the form and the location of the disease. Herbs when used with understanding, provide a safe and powerful alternative to poisonous drug therapy.

The use of herbs should complement obedience to the 8 laws of health. More information about this at www.issues-of-life.com under health issues.

By attempting to put into practice anything that you have read in this article you release Tyrone Keels from any responsibility for the results if you are dissatisfied with the outcome. Read the full disclaimer for health issues at www.issues-of-life.com

© 2009 Tyrone Keels

www.issues-of-life.com

KRAZY GLUE - NEW FORMULA BONDS RELATIONSHIPS FOREVER - Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part VI

For many people in marriage, business and in relationships generally, there are times when a unity of minds seems almost and is sometimes really unachievable.

Although it is a situation accepted as quite normal in this world, it was not in the plan of the Creator. It is has always been God's desire and aim to have perfect harmony among all His created beings while retaining a diversity of Christlike characters.

True and lasting unity is the result of having noble goals and purposes in common with one or more other persons. We'll explore it further in this post.

UNITED BY HOLY PURPOSES

AND

SHARED GOALS OF EXCELLENCE

Right thoughts, pure and holy purposes, do not come to us naturally. We shall have to strive for them. A sanctified ambition to excel in imitating the character of Christ is a safe ambition to cherish. (Isaiah 55:7/Philippians 3:8)

It is only by individual, personal effort, aided by the grace of God, that a high standard of moral excellence can be reached. God has elected a certain excellence of character; and every one who, through the grace of Christ, shall reach the standard of his requirement, will have an abundant entrance into the kingdom of glory. (2 Peter 1:3-11)

Those who are united in a common hope and faith in Christ Jesus can be a blessing to one another. (Ephesians 4:11-16/1 Corinthians 1:10)

Christ abiding in the heart of the wife, will be at agreement with Christ abiding in the heart of the husband. They will be striving together for the mansions Christ has gone to prepare for those who love him. (Matthew 18:20,19:6/1 Peter 3:7/1 Corinthians 7:5)

God is the embodiment of benevolence, mercy, and love. Those who are truly connected with Him cannot be at variance with one another. His Spirit ruling in the heart will create harmony, love, and unity."The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance." When these are abiding in the soul, there will be unity of thought and action. Spiritual life will lead to unity. The meekness and lowliness of Christ always leads to unity and hence to strength in united action. (Psalms 55:14/2 Corinthians 13:11/1 Peter 3:8)

All difference and disunion are destroyed by a union with the great Center. Unity with Christ establishes a bond of unity with one another. The safe bond of all acquaintance for those who desire to grow up in Christ's perfection of character is in confiding love and faith in Christ above all others. This is the strong and safe bond of friendship and union and will never become a snare. In union is strength. Like will attract like. Those who are drinking from the same fountain of blessing will draw nearer together. (Amos 3:3/2 Corinthians 6:14/Colossians 2:2/Hebrews 10:25/2 Corinthians 3:18)

We shall have our tests, our grievances, our differences of opinion; but if Christ is abiding in the heart of each, there can be no dissension. The love of Christ will lead to love of one another, and the lessons of the Master will harmonize all differences, bringing us into unity, till we shall be of one mind and one judgment. (Romans 12:16/Philippians 2:2, 3:16)

HOLY PURPOSES

(Purposes can either be holy or unholy. Holy purposes basically have the same objectives; the transformation & elevation of human character; the glory of God.)

(An example of this is music.) Music was made to serve a holy purpose, to lift the thoughts to that which is pure, noble, and elevating, and to awaken in the soul devotion and gratitude to God.

Yet, another example of something having a holy purpose is the power of reasoning. God has given us our reasoning powers for a high and holy purpose,--that we may grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ and become like Him in character. (Proverbs 15:22, 20:18/Romans 8:28/2 Timothy 1:9)

All who enter into matrimonial relations with a holy purpose--the husband to obtain the pure affections of a woman's heart, the wife to soften and improve her husband's character and give it completeness--fulfill God's purpose for them. (1 Corinthians 7:2-4,10,11,14,16/Ephesians 5:25/1 Peter 3:1)

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post. Have a wonderful weekend.

T.K.

© 2009 Tyrone Keels

www.issues-of-life.com

You have just been reading from page 5 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

POISON IN RELATIONSHIPS - Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part V

THE ISSUES THAT CAUSE THE PROBLEMS

Sometimes up, sometimes down. This describes many people's relationships. It is often said that opposites attract and this usually refers to opposite personalities. While it may be true that such mismatched or "odd couples" may actually work well together and may even be able to successfully move forward through some of the varied scenes of life, this cannot be said for opposite characters. Opposite characters cannot blend in harmony together without the ruin of one, two or all individuals who are involved in attempting the elusive unity.

"RED ALERT" There is danger in entering into any intimate relation with those who have no connection with Heaven. An intimate, daily intercourse which occupies time without contributing in any degree to the strength of the intellect or morals is dangerous. Everyone is exerting an influence upon others, and will be held accountable for the result of that influence. (Romans 14:7,12/Matthew 12:30/Psalms 1:1,5)

Our influence upon others depends not so much upon what we say as upon what we are. Every life is either a light to brighten and cheer the path of others, or as a desolating tempest to destroy. We lead others either upward to happiness and immortal life or downward to sorrow and eternal ruin. Humanity has no power to regenerate itself. It does not tend upward, toward the divine, but downward, toward the satanic. The tendencies of the natural heart are downward. (Matthew 7:13,14/Proverbs 16:29/James 1:14)

Holiness of heart and purity of life were the great subjects of the teachings of Christ. Without this holiness, the human heart is selfish, sinful, and vicious. Unless a strict watch is kept over the heart, wrong principles will prevail in the life, and great unhappiness will be wrought. Every departure from righteousness becomes a force that works against the Lord Jesus. When right words and deeds are left out of the home life, there come in unChristlike words and deeds. (Jeremiah 17:9/Proverbs 4:23, 15:17)

Many are unhappy because they are unholy. It is the absence of spirituality, of holiness, which leads to unrighteous acts, to envy, hatred, jealousy, evil surmisings, and every hateful and abominable sin. If there is not a growth in piety and grace, there is a growth in worldliness and sin. The inner life of the soul will reveal itself in the outward conduct. (Romans 8:10/Galatians 5:19-24)

Sin is the cause of all our woes. It is sin that darkens our minds and dims our perceptions. Sin is blinding and deceiving in its nature. Sin is Satan's attribute, and it is always leagued against good. Through indulgence in sin, self-respect is destroyed; and when that is gone, respect for others is lessened; we think that others are as unrighteous as we are ourselves. And when respect is gone, love does not long abide. When sin is cherished in the heart, there can be nothing but unhappiness in the end; and the sin which leads to the most unhappy results is pride of heart, the lack of Christ-like sympathy and love.. If we would have true peace and happiness of mind, sin must be removed. (Ecclesiastes 9:18/James 4:17/1 John 1:7/Roman 5:19/Proverbs 13:6)

All sin is selfishness. Selfishness will require of others that which we are unwilling to give them. Selfishness is at the root of all unfairness and all lack of fidelity. Were self kept under control, serious errors in home and business life would be avoided. The sharp, rude angles and rough points in our character, the manifestation of selfishness in unkind words and actions, tear away the delicate fabric of human love and happiness. Those who sow selfishness will reap selfishness. In rejecting the love of Christ they reject that which alone can impart purity and steadfastness to human love. (Proverbs 14:21/John 15:5)

Selfishness and pride hinder the pure love that unites us in spirit with Jesus Christ. If pride and selfishness were laid aside, 5 minutes would remove most difficulties. (Proverbs 13;21/Luke 15:7/2 Corinthians 5:17,18)

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post. Have a wonderful weekend.

T.K.

© 2009 Tyrone Keels

www.issues-of-life.com

You have just been reading from page 4 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.