To all:<p>It has been brought to my attention that the xow in our life knows of this site, what handle my h and I use, etc. I sincerely believe that the latest flood of mean people (crashers) is due to xow and her entourage. There is no denying that this has to be the "ugliest" group of crashers we have seen in a while... Even Bonnieb had a little more class. <p>My h and I feel a sense of sadness because of the positive encouragement that I received when I first became a member here and knowing there are many out there who need the same encouragement. I truly feel sorry for the newbies and pray that they will find the strength they need to endure this bump in the road. Christ's love never fails so I pray that all the newbies will lean on Him during this early stage of discovery. The load does get lighter in God's time. And lo and behold, your marriage may be renewed in a way that would have never been possible without such eye-opening tribulation. God has definitely been more than good to us.<p>Friends, please remember not to let the crashers infiltrate your minds and your hearts. My h and I have been asking God for clarity and discernment regarding the recent attacks on this site, and He very gently reminded us that WE, now, walk in the Holy Spirit, they unfortunately, continue to walk in darkness (the devil's spirit). It is this type of spirit that anxiously awaits the opportunity to strike, harm, manipulate and cause destruction. For those of us who logon on regular basis with the motivation to encourage and help, may God bless you. But for those of you who logon to do evil, with only those intentions, may God knock you down onto your face and may you repent and call on his name. Trust me, I am no better than "you", I was there in your shoes. I was walking in darkness - with an evil intent, but for whatever reason, God chose to bring me to my face and offer His way. It wasn't overnight that I opted to take that route, it was a slow and agonizing process to be able to see the joy in following Christ, but what a wonderful blessing it was. Christ's way seems boring and no fun, i know, but it is fun, it brings joy beyond measure. It can even take away the pain of abondonment.<p>I can't stress enough how much these people need prayer. Just last night at the dinner table, my h and i prayed for "you" and your friends. I know life hasn't been that peachy for you, and although you think it was roses for me, it wasn't. Ultimately, the ONLY thing that really matters is that during this lifetime, you, me, whoever, find the truth... Jesus Christ. Because once that happens, life is beautiful. It is only when we step in darkness that we are discouraged and feel a sense of hopelessness. We don't have to be enemies. Christ doesn't promote hate, but there is someone who does and I afraid you are holding his hand too tightly. <p>I pray that everyone here who has been influenced in a wonderful way (or unfortunately, a discourageing way) be blessed by God. There may be people who try to take away your family, your friends, your belongings, your courage, your hope, they can even take your dignity. But they can't take away your faith.<p>Colossians 1:10-14
That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet (qualified) to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdowm of his dear son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even forgiveness of sins.<p>[ March 04, 2002: Message edited by: mnca6713julia3 ]</p>
