33 years ago today I married my best friend – Janet.  As I said in a message a couple months ago – I AM COMMITTED TO HER FOR LIFE !  Period.    

We haven’t arrived, but we are on this journey together/forever.  We’ve had our share of ups and downs.  There have been times when we’ve struggled.  There have been times when our marriage wasn’t solid.  There have been times of crisis that we’ve had to walk through together.   But that’s a key – we’ve chosen to walk through them together.

We have our share of differences and arguments.  As we learned in Love & Respect (we’re still growing & learning in our relationship) she’s not wrong – just different — I’m not wrong – just different!  We still have crazy cycles; usually because one or both of us is being selfish and/or self-centered.

I guess I’m simply saying that our marriage isn’t perfect, but it’s sure great!  We love and respect each other now more than we did when we were first married.  We’ve learned a lot about what “real love” and “commitment” means because we’ve been willing.

I was trying to think of some of the things that have helped us most to get to this point.  Here are a few (not exhaustive list).   1) a common & growing commitment and love for Christ, 2) consistency in God’s Word & Prayer, 3) consistent connection with a community of faith – a church family & great small groups, 4) a willingness to learn from others, 5) striving to maintain a godly & fun home environment, 6) getting wise help & counsel when needed, 7) the example of a strong commitment to Christ & marriage from our parents, 8) a willingness to follow God’s will regardless of the risk and cost, 9) a common commitment to Biblical principles when it comes to finances & parenting, and 10) developing great friendships with others who are striving to follow Christ wholeheartedly.  

We’ve learned that the more we love Christ – the more we’re able to love each other with the kind of love defined by our Creator.  We’ve learned a lot in 33 years and have a lot to learn, but Janet’s my completer – counselor – helper – advisor – companion – encourager – “hot mama” – lover – best friend….and the list could go on.  I LOVE YOU SWEETHEART & AM COMMITTED TO YOU FOR LIFE!