Join us for daily devotionals, along with prayer for you and your needs! As the Bible teaches us in Matthew 18:19-20: "If two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in Heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them." So please feel free to submit your prayer requests (preferably through the Facebook page), and Jordan and Kristen will pray over them personally.
Jordan Rickards and Kristen Pettet
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Send us a textThis episode confronts the complex question of whether Christians can support abortion, arguing the necessity of understanding both the human and unborn experience. The discussion navigates emotional factors, moral implications, and differing perspectives within the Christian community while emphasizing a compassionate but firm pro-life stance.• Discussion on whether Christians should support abortion • Exploration of the emotional experiences of women who have had abortions • Consideration of differing Christian perspectives on abortion • Debate on empathy in relation to the well-being of both women and unborn children • Importance of distinguishing between personal beliefs and morality • Issues relating to leadership in discussing abortion • Examination of societal pressures affecting women's decisions about abortion • The role of informed choices in discussions surrounding abortion • The significance of unconditional love while standing firm against abortion policies Support the show
Send us a Text Message.Should married couples keep separate bank accounts? Should they talk about money? Should they make financial decisions together? Join us on the Jordan and Kristen Rickards Show as we tackle the controversial question: should Christian couples keep their finances separate? With personal anecdotes and biblical insights, we explore the vital role of openness and unity in financial matters. Learn how the concept of a husband as a provider extends beyond dollars and cents, offering a sense of security that fuels marital success. This episode promises a thought-provoking discussion on how financial secrecy might hint at deeper issues, and why togetherness is key.From navigating significant purchases to merging financial habits, we share strategies for effective money management in marriage. We also dive into the societal pressures of gender roles and how they affect financial responsibilities within a relationship. Communication and collaboration emerge as essential tools in ensuring harmony and minimizing financial stress.Facing financial challenges can test even the strongest marriages, but they can also be a time for growth and unity. Jordan and Kristen recount our own experiences with financial hardships, from sleepless nights worrying about payroll to the pressures of job loss, emphasizing the importance of saving and financial discipline. This episode also includes a heartfelt prayer for financial blessings, urging listeners to embrace a spirit of generosity, and concludes with a moving reflection on the biblical story of the widow's offering, reminding us that the heart behind a gift is what truly counts. Tune in for practical advice and spiritual encouragement to strengthen your marriage through financial unity. Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.Can true Christian love mean staying silent about sin? On this episode of the Jordan and Kristen Rickards Show, we challenge the popular notion that compassion equates to permissiveness. Kristen recounts a fiery response to a friend's Facebook post that suggested Christians should refrain from speaking out on issues like abortion and religious beliefs. We dive into the heart of this controversy, questioning whether love can truly exist without truth, and how silence can lead to harmful consequences.We tackle the misconception that being kind and creating relationships means we can't also stand firm in our beliefs. Kristen passionately argues that genuine love involves guiding others away from destructive paths, much like a parent would protect a child from danger. Tune in as we discuss how to speak the truth in love without alienating others, and why it's crucial for believers to balance compassion with the courage to express their convictions. This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with how to address sin in today's society while maintaining loving relationships. Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.Should Christians drink alcohol? This provocative question is at the heart of our latest episode, where Jordan and Kristen dive deep into the biblical and personal dimensions of alcohol consumption. Kristen starts with a heartfelt prayer, expressing gratitude and seeking comfort for those in hardship. She then shares her personal disdain for alcohol, highlighting its destructive impact on families and the risks of dependency. Jordan offers a counterpoint by referencing biblical texts that indicate wine in biblical times contained alcohol and was consumed openly. Together, they explore the nuanced view that while drinking may not be inherently sinful, it carries significant societal and personal risks. They discuss the unnecessary dangers related to alcohol consumption and the potential benefits of choosing to abstain. Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.Should divorced individuals hold leadership positions within the church? Join us on this profound episode of the Jordan and Kristen Rickards show, where we tackle this pressing question head-on. Kristen opens with a heartfelt prayer for wisdom and peace, setting a reflective atmosphere for our discussion. We delve into the complex realities of divorce, drawing a crucial distinction between those who initiate it and those thrust into it by circumstances like abuse or abandonment. Kristen emphasizes the need for a period of restoration and healing before assuming leadership roles, while Jordan offers his perspective as a divorce attorney, highlighting that victims of abusive marriages shouldn't be barred from leadership after suitable healing. Both agree that elective divorces for non-emergency reasons, such as midlife crises, require a different consideration for leadership roles.Moreover, we explore the delicate balance of grace, accountability, and leadership within Christian communities. By delving into Jesus' teachings on marriage and divorce, we stress the importance of accountability in church leadership, but also the necessity of grace and forgiveness. Through real-life examples of influential Christian leaders who have experienced divorce, we assert that repentance and personal growth are essential for anyone aspiring to leadership. We also touch on the challenges of setting church policies and the critical importance of leading by example to uphold moral standards. Tune in for a thoughtful and engaging discussion that promises to offer wisdom and clarity on this nuanced topic. Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.What happens when relentless suffering makes you feel forsaken by God? In this deeply moving episode, we explore Kristen's poignant journey through severe health issues. Despite enduring constant pain, Kristen's unwavering commitment to praise God amidst her trials offers a compelling testament to the power of faith. She opens up about her battles with doubt and despair, reminding us that even in the depths of suffering, there's room for gratitude and hope for eventual healing.Drawing inspiration from the biblical story of Job, we delve into how hardships can lead to a profound intimacy with God. This episode emphasizes shifting our perspective to recognize and be grateful for even the smallest blessings, and to understand that challenges do not negate God's promise or presence. We also discuss the enemy's tactics and encourage listeners to stay steadfast in their faith, surrendering their struggles to God for both physical and emotional healing. Concluding with a heartfelt prayer, this episode aims to renew your strength and belief that through God's power, any obstacle can be overcome. Tune in and share this message of hope with those who need it most. Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.Can creative liberties in faith-based storytelling go too far? Join us for a special edition of the Jordan and Kristen Rickards show as we tackle a controversial plot twist from The Chosen's latest season. We start with a heartfelt prayer for guidance and then dive deep into the shocking moment where Thomas's fiancée, Ramah, is murdered by a Roman soldier, with Jesus seemingly allowing it to happen. Is this creative choice consistent with Biblical teachings, or does it blur the lines between scripture and fiction too much?We share our profound admiration for The Chosen's impact on spreading the gospel but express serious concerns about the theological implications of introducing such dramatic, non-Biblical events. Does this scene risk confusing viewers about what is truly Biblical? Throughout our discussion, we highlight the balance that must be struck between creative storytelling and Biblical fidelity, touching on the risks and rewards involved. Despite our criticisms, we remain hopeful for the show's continued success and positive influence, and we conclude with a prayer for its enduring mission to bring people to Christ. Don't miss this engaging and thought-provoking episode! Support the Show.
When Kristen faced a daunting health diagnosis, her world seemed to topple, but through faith, she found an unexpected source of resilience. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and a cornerstone of our heartfelt discussion on navigating life's tumultuous seas. In this episode, we lay bare the often-unspoken truth: life's trials spare no one, righteous or otherwise. Yet, it's not about seeking a life devoid of problems but finding solace in the promise of divine support. Drawn from the wisdom of Psalms and Isaiah, our conversation turns personal as we share narratives of struggle and the discovery that prayer and unwavering faith can be the instruments of profound personal growth and fortitude.Reflecting on the extraordinary faith of Horatio Spafford, we unravel the myth that we are only given what we can bear. Instead, we shed light on the idea that it's through God's strength we find the ability to endure and emerge stronger. Challenging the 'It Gets Better' sentiment, we emphasize the significance of welcoming life's challenges as mechanisms for building a more resilient self. We discuss how children who gradually face adversity often grow into well-adjusted adults, illustrating the importance of not shying away from life's tests. Our episode culminates with an open invitation to listeners to seek companionship and strength in their spiritual walk, reinforcing that the journey of faith is marked not by the absence of storms but by the courage to sail through them. Support the show
If your heart has been shattered by the storm of adultery, you might wonder if the pieces can ever be put back together. We're here to walk with you through the valley of healing and share the hopeful possibility of a renewed marriage. In the sanctuary of our latest episode, we open up about the painstaking journey from betrayal to forgiveness, underpinned by both spiritual wisdom and practical guidance. We delve into the prerequisites for reconciliation—genuine repentance and a steadfast commitment to change. It's not just about weathering the storm; it's about learning to dance in the rain, discovering self-trust, and allowing God to be the cornerstone of a new beginning for your relationship.Let's embark on a quest for solace and strength, exploring how to rebuild the fortress of trust that infidelity has breached. Real repentance isn't just about ceasing wrongful acts, but actively cultivating positive ones that foster healing and prevent future missteps. We also extend an olive branch to those yearning for spiritual renewal, guiding listeners through a heartfelt prayer of salvation. Whether you're navigating the aftermath of an affair or seeking to fortify your faith, this discussion is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards an enduring commitment, both to your partner and to the divine. Join us, and let the transformation begin. Support the show
Can a marriage emerge stronger after the storm of infidelity? That's the heart-rending question Jordan and Kristen tackle through the lens of biblical stories like that of Hosea, examining the raw realities of betrayal and the healing potential of forgiveness within the context of a sacred covenant. With Jordan's background as a divorce attorney and their shared Christian faith, Jordan and Kristen navigate the complexities of adultery—a frequent catalyst for divorce—and discuss the arduous journey towards possible reconciliation. From the tangible acts of unfaithfulness to the less visible, yet equally damaging, emotional betrayals in the digital age, we confront the profound impacts on relationships. Yet, in the midst of the pain, we underscore the transformative might of repentance and the boundless grace offered by the Gospel, holding onto the belief that with genuine remorse and open hearts, marriages can find a path to restoration.Moving to the frontlines of marital defense, this episode also lays out strategies to preemptively shield your union from the perils of infidelity. Jordan and Kristen dissect the dangerous cocktail of pride and the misconception of self-imperviousness, emphasizing that simply professing immunity to temptation is far from sufficient. They share the critical importance of establishing clear boundaries in all facets of life to avert the smallest lapse that could lead to significant transgressions, and reveal how spiritual fortitude, daily prayer, and cultivating a deep connection with your spouse act as bulwarks against external enticements. As we offer these insights, we hold firm to the belief that prevention is key, and while God can mend a marriage fractured by betrayal, the path is often smoother when fortified by proactive measures and a shared commitment to fidelity. Support the show
Cohabitation before marriage: society seems to tout it as a compatibility litmus test, but what if that's not the whole story? Join Jordan and Kristen as they pull back the curtain on this modern-day relationship rite, sharing personal experiences and societal insights that challenge the perceived wisdom of living together pre-nuptials. We navigate through the complex layers of commitment, contrasting the deep-rooted vows of marriage with the impermanent nature of an unmarried couple's shared domicile. With the aid of intriguing stats and thought-provoking discussion, we aim to present why skipping the home trial might just pave the way for a stronger, more lasting partnership.As we wrap up this candid episode, we extend a heartfelt thank you to you—our faithful listeners—for journeying with us through these often-taboo topics. Looking ahead, we're preparing to bare our own marital tales of joy and tribulation, an intimate conversation you won't want to miss. Until our paths cross again, remember to seek us out on JordanAndKristen.com, our YouTube channel, and our Spotify offerings for more heartfelt discussions. Keep sending those prayer requests, and as you step into your week, may it brim with grace and the excitement of deepening connections with Jordan and Kristen Ministries. Support the show
When your steps seemed shrouded in uncertainty, it is the unexpected calm amidst chaos that whispers of a higher plan. This episode is a journey into the heart of such divine guidance, where we explore the transformative power of tuning into God's gentle nudges. We dissect the echoes of peace that often signal His direction, sharing candid moments when that still, small voice has led us through life's tumultuous seas. Far from being an exclusive dialogue for the spiritually elite, we reveal that God's communication lines are open to each one of us, patiently waiting for us to listen. Support the show
Few things are more destructive than a critical spirit. Join us as we unravel the complexities of criticism, revealing how it can forge paths to personal growth or, when misused, create barriers in relationships. There's an important line between well-meaning feedback and damaging jabs. Our candid discussion serves as a reminder to tread carefully on the tightrope of critique, aiming always to uplift rather than undercut. Whether you're the giver or receiver of criticism, this episode promises to equip you with a renewed perspective on feedback and set the stage for a year marked by kindness and self-improvement. Support the show
Prepare to sift through the complexities of the prosperity doctrine with us—unveiling the rich tapestry of Biblical wisdom that treasures our holistic well-being above mere material wealth. Through the lens of our personal financial voyages, we expose the dangers of prosperity becoming an idol and reaffirm our commitment to prioritizing God in our lives. You'll be navigated through the murky waters of skepticism towards miracles and divine intervention, all while we anchor our hearts to the unwavering promise of God's will as the true north of prosperity.This episode isn't just about abundance; it's an invitation to weave the golden threads of health and happiness with the sturdy fibers of faith. As we traverse the Biblical landscape of responsible wealth management and the pure elation of generosity, you're called to join us in a prayerful celebration of thanksgiving. We challenge you to embrace a spirit of giving that transcends the confines of the wallet, encouraging acts of kindness that resonate throughout the holiday season and ripple into a bounteous new year. With every story shared and scripture pondered, we hope to light your way to a richer, more generous life in the Kingdom of God. Support the show
Should the church remain politically neutral? Join Jordan and Kristen as they break down the complexities of faith entwined with politics, spurred by feedback from those who feel the church has become a shadow of political parties, especially within American evangelical circles. They're taking on the challenge of dissecting whether our faith communities have strayed too far into partisan territories or if there's a moral imperative to stand firm on issues that align with our spiritual convictions. Expect an honest, no-holds-barred conversation about the role of the church in an era where political affiliation seems as integral to identity as religious belief.Through prayer and thought-provoking discussion, we grapple with the image of Jesus in the realm of modern politics and the difficulty of being His followers amidst today's morally charged political landscape. Should the church be a bastion of peace, untouched by the chaos of the political world, or does it have a duty to address the pressing matters that affect our moral compass? Tune in as we explore the delicate balance between advocating for what's right and avoiding the pitfalls of becoming entangled in political strife, all the while seeking to honor our convictions without succumbing to the divisive nature of partisanship. Support the show
What if you held the power to revive the church? That's right, the journey towards restoring the Christian influence in today's world starts with you. Each one of us has the potential to spark a spiritual renaissance, and this episode is all about harnessing that power to enact meaningful change. We're not just waiting for miracles – we're making them happen. Through sharing the love and message of Christ intentionally, and understanding the profound impact our actions can hold, we can turn the tides on the declining church. Inspired by a powerful meme from our friend, Cliff, we delve into the transformative influence that each individual can have, potentially touching a billion lives. Even as we get practical, we never lose sight of the spiritual core of our faith. As Christmas draws near, we're reminded of the need to be a beacon of hope and positivity in a world that often seems dark. More than just celebrating, we're embracing the Holy Spirit – letting it fill us up and flow outwards, touching the lives of those around us. So, join us as we navigate the complexities of prayer, the beauty of blessings, and the joy of being a light in the world. We wish you a Merry Christmas, but more importantly, we implore you to not just receive blessings, but to become one yourself. Tune in and let's light up this world with love, one person at a time. Support the show
We're posing a question you may not want to hear - why is the Church in decline in the United States, and what can we do to address this unsettling reality? We're not here to sugarcoat the situation, but rather to explore the sobering statistics and uncover the roots of the problem, particularly the disconnection among the younger generation. Kristen, with her insightful observations and personal experiences, opens an intriguing discussion on the fundamental human need for belonging, an area where some churches appear to fall short. Join us as we wrestle with the hard truths and navigate through the potential solutions. No stone is left unturned, from the stark decrease in church membership and religious affiliation to the shift in key cultural influencers like Hollywood, media, government, and academia. As we grapple with this challenging topic, we invite you to tune in. We may not have all the answers, but we're committed to igniting the conversations that matter. Through prayer and trust in God, we are hopeful to reveal a beacon of light in these seemingly dark times. Support the show
Have you ever felt the pressure of curating the perfect holiday gathering, only to feel stretched thin by trying to meet everybody's expectations? Ever wondered how to keep your marriage a priority amidst the holiday chaos? Join us, Jordan and Kristen, as we share personal stories and strategies for managing these seasonal stressors. We highlight the importance of presence over perfection, embracing traditions without losing sight of joy, and finding the balance through compromise. Moving forward, we dissect the art of safeguarding your relationship during the holiday rush. We delve into the essence of compromise, the beauty of quality time over quantity, and the significance of placing God at the center of our decisions. We encourage you to see holidays as an opportunity to foster unity with a focus on Christ, rather than a stress-filled event. As we conclude, we underscore the transformative power of prayer for our families and loved ones during the festive season. With love and warmth, we wish you a joyous holiday rooted in God's love. Support the show
Are we doing enough to address the rising issue of suicide, especially among children and teens? Today, we tackle this heavy question head-on, leaving no stone unturned. We discuss the disturbing increase in suicide rates and the complex factors contributing to this trend. The impact of social media, the disintegration of traditional family structures, and the failure of institutions like schools and churches to provide adequate support are just a few of the issues we examine. From the personal choices we make to the traps laid by the enemy, we confront the harsh realities that can push someone towards this drastic act.But this conversation isn't just about understanding the causes; it's about finding hope and extending support. In a world that seems increasingly cold and indifferent, we believe in the transformative power of love and understanding. Whether you're the one battling these dark thoughts or you know someone who is, we want you to know - you are not alone. We're here for you, ready to lend an ear, a shoulder, a helping hand. We care about you and your well-being. So, join us in spreading this message of hope and support. Together, we can make a world of difference. Support the show
Ever wrestled with the jagged edges of forgiveness? You're not alone. On this week's episode, we're pulling back the curtain on this challenging concept with the same warmth and laughter you've come to love us for. Kicking off with Kristen's heartfelt prayer for anyone experiencing tough times, we're reminded that even in the face of uncertainty, there's strength to be found in God's love.Strap in for a thought-provoking journey where we explore the bumps and bruises that come with practicing forgiveness. We question the depth of our own forgiveness when past grievances rear their ugly heads and propose a different perspective - could forgiveness be a decision rather than an emotion? We'll discuss the physical and emotional toll associated with the process of forgiving, and why it's so essential for our wellbeing. Join us in this intimate conversation, as we share, learn, and grow together. You'll want to be part of this enlightening discussion, trust us! Support the show
Jordan and Kristen discuss Jordan's experience as a divorce attorney, along with the tell-tale signs that a divorce may be coming, and how to prevent divorce from happening to your marriage. Support the show
Anxiety affects all of us, and for some, it truly limits our lives. You don't have to live with it. In this video, Jordan and Kristen share their personal experiences with anxiety and how they overcame it. Support the show
One of the misconceptions about Christianity is that by becoming more Christ-like we have to give up our individualism. Nothing can be further from the truth. The body of Christ has to be unified, but that body has many different parts that serve many different purposes. God wants us to be more of ourselves, and that happens by not conforming to the world but transforming ourselves to Christ.
Marriage is designed to be freeing and empowering, to help both partners live their best life and achieve to their fullest. But marriage is under attack in our culture, and as part of that attack it's become fashionable to complain how marriage is oppressive, in particular to women. That's nonsense. In this episode, Jordan and Kristen explain how the entire purpose of marriage is for both husband and wife to thrive. Support the show
Can a marriage survive adultery? Should it? In this video, Jordan and Kristen discuss, amongst other things: the story of Hosea, who God strangely commanded to marry the sluttiest girl he could find (and what happened when he did); the extent to which adultery in marriage can be overcome; and what God requires, and does not require, of the spouse who is cheated on.
The Bible says we should "fear the Lord our God." But why should we fear someone who loves us? How do we reconcile these two competing emotions, and what are the real-world implications of it?
In this special episode, Kristen interviews April Barber, who talks about her daughter's heart condition. April's daughter was born with a heart defect that had doctors convinced she would not live. But ten years and numerous surgeries later, her daughter continues to defy the odds, and God continues to be faithful. In this interview, April tells her story of faith, hope, and answered prayers.
Having recently celebrated their first wedding anniversary, Jordan and Kristen discuss the lessons they've learned from their first year of marriage.
We live in a society where being offended is a favorite hobby. No wonder we have no idea how to be successful in relationships! Every relationship has in it opportunities to be offended. Successful relationships are those where both partners choose instead to think the best of the other person.
In our last episode, we discussed how many people don't even know how to love themselves. In this episode, we discuss a key to loving another person: humility, because without humility there can be no growth, and if you're not growing together than you're growing apart. Humility is what causes us to reflect on how we can improve for the other person, and just as importantly, for ourselves.
Why do so many marriages and relationships fail? It's no surprise that so many of us don't know how to love each other, when so few of us know how, or even why, to love ourselves.
God accepts us the way we are, but He doesn't want to leave us the way we are. He wants to give us new life, conformed to His will, because he values us, as we are each unique and irreplaceable.
We all want divine appointments: meeting the love of our life, or someone with an exciting opportunity, or someone else who will propel us forward. But whether we realize it or not, we probably have countless divine appointments every day, and it's important to make the most out of those as well, as we wait for the ones we're believing for.
In order to get the good things that God has for us, we need to transition from "God give me" to "God use me."
A lot of people like the philosophical elements of Christianity, but have difficulty with the miracles, in particular Christ's resurrection. Some even wonder aloud whether the resurrection is a necessary component to Christianity. Why, is it not enough, to simply follow Christ's teachings? Because Jesus was not simply presenting a way of life, He was presenting Himself as life.
Last week we spoke about the importance of letting God take control. We continue with that theme this week, explaining how the best way to stop controlling things is to understand who God is, and what his promises are.
Marriage is like two people trying to use their own pieces from their own puzzles to put a single puzzle together, on a table that sometimes seems too small. The problem is not the dream, the problem is trying to control what God wants to do. The key to success is submission, and letting God take over the process.
"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, and His love endures forever!"
We can't always be everything to our spouse, but we can always be faithful, just as God is faithful to us.
When we pray for healing, it's important to remember the importance of praying for forgiveness as well. Sickness is not punishment for sin, but it's sometimes linked to sin, and even more than that, is an opportunity that God uses to get our attention, and display His glory.
Most people are familiar with the story of the Prodigal Son, and the main lesson, which is that God welcomes us back when we repent. But there are two other lessons just as important to learn.
Successful relationships require that both parties speak boldly to each other. But that's often misunderstood.
We all want something better, but oftentimes, we're afraid to leave the old thing behind before the new thing arrives.
You may have heard of the "five love languages": acts of service, gift giving, quality time, physical touch, and words of affirmation. But there's a sixth love language that's even more important than the first five combined, because without it the others fail: personal growth. When Paul writes his famous "love is patient, love is kind, it does not envy" verses, he ends by reminding us that we have to put aside childish things and grow, and that's true in our relationship with our partner and with our God.
Relationships are often easiest and happiest in the beginning when couples fall in love. But too often, that feeling fades, and when that happens the relationship is at risk of decay, and often people look for new partners to get that “in love” feeling back. The cycle then repeats itself when that relationship loses its newness. It doesn't have to be that way. God is a God of renewal, who wants to constantly refresh our love for Him, and by extension, with our partners.
Accepting Christ doesn't just redeem us from our past, it actually puts to death the old person and replaces it with an entirely new one. As the Apostle Paul said in 2 Corinthians 5: "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has gone, and the new has come." So not only are we washed clean of our sins, we are made totally new creatures who have never had a sinful life in the first place.
We all want the ideal spouse, kids, job, house, vacations, even the ideal day. That's fine, but not when our happiness, and by extension our faith and our relationship with God, is tied to the perfection of those ideals. Only God is perfect, therefore, only God should be our ideal. When we demand perfection from other things, we're replacing our perfect God with imperfect idols, and we set ourselves up for disappointment and failure. Remember: "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." -- Isaiah 55:8-9
The Bible says "Delight yourself int he Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." What's important when you read a verse like that is to see what it's not saying as well. It does not say God will give you the desires of your flesh. In this video, we discuss this important, and commonly overlooked distinction.
One of the worst habits people have is to hoard junk, and we don't just mean material things, but rather petty resentments and grievances which, by themselves, aren't worth much of anything, but when accumulated over the course of years or decades, are fatal to a relationship. Instead, discard the silly annoyances when they occur, and hoard the positive things your partner does for you. As the Bible says: "whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."
Do you ever feel like you've come up against an insurmountable wall, even after doing all the right things? You prayed for deliverance, you followed God, you were totally obedient, and still you've reached a point where you feel like you've wandered into the middle of nowhere, with a wall in front of you preventing further progress. The Israelites must have felt the same way when they were brought out of Egypt, only to have their progress stopped by the Red Sea, with Pharoah's army right behind them. They even lamented having left slavery in Egypt and wished to go back! When you reach the obstacle, that's not the time to look back, it's the time to stretch out in faith, with expectation that God did not bring you this far to leave you or forsake you, but to deliver you.
When Jesus explains how to pray in his famous "Lord's Prayer" speech, one of the things He tells us to pray for is "our daily bread." We take that to mean, all too often, material blessings, even if only in the form of our basic necessities. But it should be understood to mean provision for all things that we need to get through the day, at the emotional, physical, and in particular spiritual level as well.