Greetings!
My name is Cynthia. I was born again in 1996, and I have been happily married to my fantastic husband, Eric, since September 24, 1998. We are the proud "parents" of several beautiful cats, dogs, and finches. (I'm glad to shamelessly brag about them with minimum provocation. Click here if you don't believe me. ;) )
Since we became a couple in 1994, Eric and I have worked through many issues in our relationship. Both of us came from somewhat similar dysfunctional families, so we had issues to work through from our pasts that we brought into our relationship, as well as new issues such as financial and in-law problems. In addition, I had been married before, so I also had plenty of guilt and insecurities of my own from that previous failed marriage that I brought into our marriage. God has helped me become healed, emotionally healthy and happy, and for that I will always be grateful.
Thank God, He has helped us both to work on issues and to become better spouses, and people in general. Not that we or our marriage is perfect- perfection doesn't exist. But we are happy and able to work on problems together as they arise. We also both know our places in this marriage. Eric may be the king of our home, but I am also the queen!
The more people I talk to, the more I see the institution of marriage is under attack in today's society. The divorce rate is skyrocketing, and of those who haven't divorced, many are miserable, in an extramarital affair or contemplating divorce or separation. It is tragic! This isn't what God wants for us! Jesus died to give us eternal life, but He also made such a great sacrifice so we may life the abundant life (see John 10:10). A happy, close, loving marriage is a part of that abundant life, I believe. But so many couples these days seem too busy or preoccupied to focus on making their marriages the safe haven it should be. Marriage takes time, communication and devotion, as well as keeping God as top priority to work. I wrote a book called "Romantic Inspirations" to help couples get back on the right track in their marriages. God showed me in His word just how to put romance back into stagnant marriages.
I believe the rolls of husbands and wives has become somewhat blurred in society, and is partly responsible for the damage done to marriages. I also believe that if we do our part to be the best husband or wife we can be, based on God's word, God will bless that and help change our spouse for the better as well. I have experienced this first hand.
Ladies, encourage and support that wonderful man you married. Love him in whatever ways you know speak to his heart! And gentlemen, remember that the Bible tells you to "love your wife as Christ hath loved the church" That means you don't take her for granted or expect her to be your servant. Treat her as the queen that she is! And to both husbands and wives- remember, that person you are annoyed with right now is still that same person you pledged to love, honor and cherish, until death do you part. Never forget that!
Please feel free to take a look around our site. I pray it will bless you and your marriage tremendously!
May God bless and keep you,
Cynthia R.