Marriage and Family:
Starting From Scratch or "Help God!"

James 1:2-5 Count it all joy my brothers when you face various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. Let steadfastness finish its work so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault and it will be given to him."

Doug and I were married on May 25, 1975. (We just recently celebrated our 25th anniversary!) We were both 21 years old when we got married and having just recently become believers, we were full of youthful idealism and our eyes were clouded over. Neither of us could see the tremendous problems that were facing us just around the corner. I was looking for a strong man to take care of me. My fears of life and responsiblity so overwhelmed me that I was anxious to find a safe place. Doug looked strong but unfortunately, I did not know enough to look beyond his arm muscles.  You see, inwardly, he was not a strong person either.