ANTI-THIEF

One of the most oft-quoted stats by church leaders today is:  "The divorce rate among Christians is no better than that among unbelievers."

Not exactly.

The more accurate truth is that those who practice a serious religious faith have a divorce rate significantly lower than the rest of the nation -- approximately 35% lower.  

The difference is faith practice and faith commitment.

'Every single day there is a fight for allegiance.'

That isn't exactly rocket science -- or at least it shouldn't be for Bible-believing Christ-followers.  It is not only gratifying but also intuitive that those who regularly practice faith-based behaviors and who regularly hold to faith-based attitudes -- who are faithful to do life in Christian community -- who read their Bibles -- pray -- engage in spiritual disciplines -- living not as perfect disciples, but serious ones -- experience significantly lower divorce rates than the general public.

Even so, the numbers are still too high.  The thief comes to steal.

The enemy of my soul fully intends to destroy my marriage to Joelene -- and yours to your beloved -- even though you may have so far survived.  These are the realities of spiritual warfare.  Only committed faith in Christ and leaning on His great power can give us triumph over the destructive plans of our enemy.

Every single day there is a fight for allegiance.  The enemy tries to steal the faith right out of your heart.  He tries to hurt it - wound it - scar it - kill it.  This is not a thief who attempts to make off with your four best dishtowels and all your electronics.  He's looking for more precious quarry.  

Jesus, your Savior, however, is the opposite of a thief.  He is an anti-thief.  He doesn't come to steal, but to bless -- to give hope.  He doesn't break in to your life.  He patiently stands at your heart's door and knocks.  If invited in, He walks thru your spiritual house placing precious objects on mantels and shelves and in the cupboards of your life.  He fills you up with everything life is worth living for.

And be blessed.