“Can you be loyal when life’s not lovely?”
One of the hardest things to do in a relationship is to continue to be loyal when life is not lovely. Today marriages, families and singles are being hit with some of the most challenging life situations. People are losing their precious family members, friends and co-workers to COVID-19, health challenges or the stress of simply trying to live. Many have also lost their jobs and are having to distance themselves from everyone. This week’s message is two-fold; I want to encourage married couples to keep being loyal to God and each other in the midst of everything happening. I also want to challenge all of the singles to keep being loyal to God!
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE LOYAL?
What does it mean to be loyal? To be loyal is to give or show firm and constant support or allegiance to a person. To sum it up, it’s simply being faithful! Are you a faithful husband/wife? Can your spouse count on you to be there or are you more loyal to other people and things? I am reminded of Proverbs 17:17 which says; “A friend loves at all times and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” As a husband/wife, we should be that friend to one another who loves at all times. It’s easy to love and be loyal when everything is good, all the bills are paid and everything is laid. However, if life is not so lovely right now, can you still be loyal?
To all of the singles, God wants to know; Will you be loyal in your relationship with Him? Will you continue to worship, serve Him, read your Bible and pray during this challenging season? Many are turning away, but God wants you to be loyal to Him. Faithfulness is the key. I Corinthians 7:35, “. . . An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord’s affairs; Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world how she may please her husband.” I know this is directed towards women, but brothers can do the same.
CAN WE REALLY BE LOYAL?
With God’s help, we can be loyal when life is not lovely. Human nature is to give up under pressure and to give up when things are not lovely. However, with God, we can endure. He is a very present help in the time of trouble. He said He would never leave us not forsake us. No matter how unlovely your life may be. God will see you through.
HOW CAN I BE LOYAL?
Keep praying! Keep praising God in spite of what things may look like! Open the Word of God for comfort, direction, and wisdom to endure. Apply the Word to your everyday life. Be transparent and accountable to someone who will encourage you to do the godly thing. Seek godly counsel and apply what you learn. Hang in there and remain loyal to God and loyal to your spouse. Treat others the way you want to be treated. I can hear someone saying, it’s too late. If you feel this way, repent and ask the Lord to forgive you and your spouse if necessary. Lord, please help us to be Loyal!
Until next week. . .
Carolyn
Marriage from A to Z 