"My wife and I were remarried after years of being apart. Our children were our witnesses. What an awesome God we serve." (Arkansas)
"I want to praise God for touching my prodigal's heart to send me money for my birthday. He didn't get me anything last year, but this year he wired the money and texted me telling me to enjoy my birthday." (Virginia)
My spouse came home months ago because he had no job. He is seeing the Lord work. Today, my husband got a job minutes after I had prayed for a door to open. God never fails. He has used this time to work in my husband's heart, to finish the good work He has started. I give Him all praise and glory. (Florida)
"The prodigal's wife will not go to church with him. I am praying that God will show him the error of his ways. I feel in my heart God is working in this marriage. Praise God." (Florida)
"A co-worker suggested that we begin praying for one another's needs and that we fast. We prayed over the phone Thursday night. Over the weekend, my Lord showed Himself strong and powerful. My husband's car broke down and I used my roadside assistance to have it towed. I had not been to his apartment in a year. My husband called on Sunday and suggested that I come and pick him up so we could go out to eat as a family before the children went back to school. We had a wonderful time together. On Tuesday morning my husband showed up at our home at 6:30 A.M. He cooked breakfast and went to our first grader’s school to meet her teacher. On my way to work, I looked up and a truck was in front of me with the logo, 'First Restoration.' God is so faithful." (Texas)
"I was ready to give up, but then I read Charlyne's devotional. God has given me so much strength to stand tall and stand firm. He alone made me see that He is so much bigger than things and new cars. He is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords and nothing is too big for Him. Our Lord told me to let God be God and to stand for my family. Thank You, Lord, for loving me that much." (Indiana)
"Witnessing a remarriage ceremony in person last night was amazing. It was a victorious night in the name of Jesus for the couple and for our church. I cried out of joy through the whole ceremony. I could picture me renewing vows with my prodigal. Praise God. Marriages are being restored. I witnessed it last night." (Texas)
“The lowly he sets on high, and those who mourn are lifted to Safety. He thwarts the plans of the crafty, so that their hands achieve no success. He catches the wise in their craftiness, and the schemes of the wily are swept away.” Job 5:11-13
“Last year, on our 19th anniversary, my husband noticed I had a flat tire when he picked up the kids. He offered to come by and fix it later, when we spent nearly an hour together on a beautiful cold day. The mail came right before he did and in it was my first set of tapes from Charlyne. I couldn't wait to have time later to open them. I am thankful that through the past 2 years of my stand God has provided for me wondrously and I look forward to His provision on our 20th anniversary in this new year.” (British Colombia)
"I received a call from an elderly couple who had attended our wedding and reception. They reminded me that our reception site had been destroyed in a fire a few years back; however, it has since been rebuilt and restored and is even better than it was at first. The Holy Spirit reminded me that what happened to our wedding reception location is symbolic of what is now happening with our marriage. We are in the process of restoration and rebuilding. Glory to God." (California)
"O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago." Isaiah 25:1
"God really does move mountains and softens the hardest of hearts! For six months I have had no contact with my husband and on my birthday he sent me a message wishing me a happy birthday and asked if it would be okay for us to talk over the phone. We talked for hours and he told me how much he has missed me. We still have a long ways to go, but I know that God will heal all the hurt between us. I praise God for this contact that I have been praying for." (South Carolina)
"God's been wonderful in touching and softening my husband's heart. We are finally emailing each other after a period of not communicating at all." (California)
"As I seek God's will for myself and my prodigal husband, I find guidance from Him through my sister in law. As I struggled if I should invite my husband to Christmas eve, she sought God’s will for me. She got an immediate answer that kindness is never out of fashion, so I invited him. My husband accepted, drove hours to and from my home to be with me and our children and grandson. We went to church, he kissed me publicly and we had a wonderful family time. God's will and timing is perfect." (Ohio)
"I give our Lord the praise and glory that I was able to spend time with my wife yesterday. Like every weekend, I had the kids and we had made plans to meet for the exchange. I was able to see her to give her some flowers and a small gift from me. I praise God for orchestrating the events that allowed that to take place. My wife mentioned that she could not afford to eat out. I felt the Holy Spirit telling me that I should treat them to a meal. Before I left, I gave her some money and told her that it was Mother's Day and she should not have to cook. She gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek. It was the first time in months that my wife has hugged me or given me a kiss. I had been praying for a physical demonstration from my wife that her heart is softening and God heard my prayer." (New Jersey)
"My wife and I have been separated for months, with little communication. I cried out to the Lord, as I have many times before, badly needing some encouragement. My wife called me and said she missed talking to me, and that she doesn't have anyone to talk to. We talked over her break at work and had a pleasant conversation. Praise God for lifting up His children when they really need it." (Pennsylvania)
"Since I have been standing blessings have abound. My oldest son came to the Lord. I was healed of disease. My finances are getting better, and the best is the peace I have from the Lord. 'We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God' Romans 8:28." (California)
"My family traveled to one of my children's college graduation in another state. My husband traveled with our family. This gave us a lot of time together to laugh and share memories. It was like old times. I thank God that when we returned home my husband called to tell me he enjoyed being with me. I praise God He let me see a change in my husband. God is working on restoring my marriage." (Mississippi)
"It's been three years since my husband left our home. This past year he has been coming over every week having supper with me and kids. Last night when he came, he brought flowers and a card for my birthday. He took us out to eat and we had a great time. He also revealed how his Mom is not very happy with him, since he has left his family. His mother also sent me a birthday card, still calling me her daughter-in-law. My husband has not filed for divorce. I know God is working all things out for our good and my husband will return home. Praise God." (Massachusetts)
"My husband moved across the country. I have virtually no contact with him. But, I have continued to fast, pray and stay close to God. Last Monday my husband called me out of the blue, asking about me, the kids, our church and others. He will be coming back to our area next month. He also called his Mother on Mother's Day, as he had not spoken to her since he left either. I know God is working." (Indiana)
"I praise God for His faithfulness. My husband left our home. It devastated me, but I thank God for His faithfulness in leading me to a godly resource that encourages me each day to draw closer to Him, and in my obedience are my blessings. I have been saved for a long time, but this trial has brought me to my knees as no other. I was led to call my husband on Thanksgiving morning and praise God he answered his phone. He told me how much he misses me each day, more than I can ever imagine. I give God all the glory and honor for this step toward healing and restoration." (Kentucky)
"We serve an awesome and wonderful God. My husband's attorney called and again our trial date has been rescheduled. All of this and I haven't even hired an attorney. I have the greatest Counselor ever and that is the Lord. I have been praying that the Lord will keep getting the dates continued while He does His wonderful work in my husband. I am so excited because I know my husband is coming home to the Lord first and then to me. I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with the man the Lord will bring home to me. I praise the Lord for what he is doing in me. I believe I needed this time to draw closer to the Lord and be the wife the Lord wants me to be." (Oklahoma)
"I asked God for a clear sign when I felt confused because friends encouraged me to start dating. I googled 'Christian Singles Groups' but found Rejoice Marriage Ministries. While looking at a magazine, the page opened to a full-page ad with four inch letters reading 'stand', (a footwear ad). I had my clear sign." (Wisconsin)
"My husband apologized to me and we are now spending time together. He does not want a divorce. God is working on our marriage and bringing us back together." (Oklahoma)
“I am young in my stand. It has been a few months since my husband left home and only a few weeks since I have allowed God to pull me from deep depression. He has really impressed upon me the need to shower myself in the Word. Yesterday, in church, I asked God to speak. First, we sang a song that refers to Ezekiel resurrecting the dry bones. The pastor began a sermon about hope and standing on God's promises. He had us turn to the person next to us and pray for each other. I was next to my Mom. She and I have been carving out a new relationship after a childhood filled with abuse. We both began to cry from the sheer beauty of it and felt a closer bond than ever. It was truly a day of God speaking to my situation and I give Him all the praise.” (Kansas)
“Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off–for all whom the Lord our God will call.” Acts 2:38-39
“Last week my husband ran into a friend of ours and my sister and her family, all in one day. He spoke to all of them. I also heard from his sister twice in the same week, and this week his mother. I sent him a card to let him know I was thinking of him for Thanksgiving. God has also blessed me with a part time second job a couple of months ago so I am hopefully seeing the light at the end of the tunnel financially. God is moving mountains. I just keep praying. Thanks for all your email and encouragement. They have really hit home.” (Iowa)
“My prodigal returned in March this year after moving out of our home in November last year. Although the period may seem short, it was the longest and hardest, yet best, time in my life. I learned more about my Savior and His love than I have in the 15 years since I have been saved! He taught me how to cast my cares on Him daily. He taught me how to find comfort in His Word, rather than look for comfort in people or things. He gave me such a desire for the Word that now all I want to do is please Him in my life and in my marriage. My husband is back home for good. The old me would still be playing the blame card, but now I realize that the devil is a thief who wants to destroy what God has put together. Now, rather than blame, I pray and trust Him to make all tings work out for our good. I will not allow the devil to rob my wonderful children of the joy of growing up in a Christian home where both parents love and worship Jesus. He has made us more than over comers and I intend to prove through my life and prayers what is the acceptable and perfect will of God concerning marriage.” (United Kingdom)
“I have been standing for three years. All this time I saw/heard nothing, but God was steadily moving on my behalf! I thank Him for His mercy to keep me ignorant of all my husband’s trials. God in His mercy knew I couldn't handle knowing all of this while it was happening! If you don't see anything, praise God! He's busy on your behalf.” (Texas)
“God is so good. My husband has been home for three years. Our family is restored, children are well, happy, healthy, husband is serving in church, and going to Bible study. We are better than ever, and each year is sweeter and sweeter. Daily I thank God for my marriage and it just keeps getting better and better. The pain of that two year stand is nothing compared to the joy of our life together now. God is able and more than willing to restore hurting marriages, all it takes is one to stand and trust Him. My desire is to help someone like you helped me.” (Florida)
"Shout with joy to God all the earth! Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious! Say to God, "How awesome are your deeds! So great is your power that your enemies cringe before you." Psalm 66:1-3
"I was in prayer less than an hour ago asking the Lord to please send me a sign to let me know that I am going to make it financially. My husband has given me no financial help in over a year. Money is getting tight, but I have remained steadfast in my giving to the Lord and He has provided for me miraculously month to month. I was discouraged today and all morning I've been considering selling a piece of jewelry my husband gave me to pay bills. After I prayed, I logged on to my computer and the first thing I read was the verse Jeremiah 29:11 from the Charlyne Cares Memorial Day message; and then at the end of the message the verses from Matthew 6. These were the signs I asked for. Thank you for letting God use you to speak to others." (Alabama)
"My prodigal husband of many weeks returned home today with such a different outlook concerning our marriage. He apologized for hurting us and said to me that marriage is for life. Praise God and thank you so much for your prayers." (Florida)
"I left my husband. My daughter and I stayed in a domestic violence shelter for months. I did not want a divorce, and told my husband so when we finally began to talk. I have confessed my sins to him and asked forgiveness. I took a stand that I would continue to pray for our marriage to be healed. The Lord has helped me to consistently be kind and show unconditional love. However, the divorce is proceeding, and will soon be final. I was feeling sad at work yesterday. I began to feel like a failure. The Lord suddenly directed my attention to a poster on the wall at the school I work at. It said, 'Losing doesn't mean you are a failure. Quitting does.' It was just the lift I needed to be reminded that as long as I don't quit praying, that 'losing' by going through the divorce still does not mean the end." (Wisconsin)
“I would like to report the goodness of the Lord. Recently, my husband came to visit me and poured out his heart about the things that caused him to move into the pig’s pen. Although painful, God gave me such peace and an assurance that He is still working, still being faithful, still melting and molding the two of us. Thank You Father, for Your perfect plan will come into existence.” (Newfoundland)
'Bob's message really hit me today. He wrote, 'Do not go around loosening the lugs on your mate's trust bike by checking up on them. Do not intercept their mail, dig through their personal items, or hit redial on their cell phone, and such. All you will be doing is giving the enemy grand opportunities to misrepresent something to you, and the evil one always will. If there is something that you, as a stander, needs to know, the Lord will reveal it to you.' Wow! I have been trying to untangle myself from knowing everything about my spouse's actions, however in terms of financial activity, I've had a difficult time. Against the advise of a trusted friend, I checked his bank account. I knew I shouldn't and vowed yet again to back off. Bob's message really made the situation crystal clear to me about how my prodigal may view the situation.” (Colorado)
"I have not been in contact with my prodigal husband for years. He finally went through with the divorce, but through that process, God opened the doors of communication. Now we are emailing back and forth many times a day and I am hopeful this will be a step toward my prodigal’s heart softening toward me." (Michigan)
“My prodigal's last call was a month ago asking for a divorce. I was able to tell him that I will always be his wife and wait for his return. My son and I do not know where he lives or any other details. I did not beg him or cry as usual. God was there by my side keeping me strong willed and positive. We have not contacted each other for a month now and I was praying last night that God would turn the heart of the father to the child and vice versa. This morning, our son was playing and started to divide the portions to each member of his family and he mentioned a portion for his father. An hour later, the telephone rang. It was my husband calling to speak with our son. I praise God for hearing my prayers. God is so good even when you cannot see the mountain tumbling before your eyes. Praise God for His kindness.” (Malaysia)
"I just read Bob's 'Charlyne's Cares' and I just wanted to shout Hallelujah. To have this message sounded from anywhere apart from the pulpit of the church, is just glorious. I always knew that you were sincere, but this piece cemented my belief in the genuineness of your relationship and experience with the Lord. Your reference to unbecoming dress when leading worship, immorality, churches accepting divorce as a viable option and the other signs of moral decay in our churches, was a breath of fresh air. I also treasure your ministry because you were instrumental in helping me maintain hope for the restoration of my marriage when it seemed that all hope was gone. May the Lord continue to work on you and refine you in your thoughts and spirit so that you can pass on more godly instructions to those who read "Charlyne Cares." (New Jersey)
"You give me your shield of victory, and your right hand sustains me; you stoop down to make me great. You broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn." Psalm 18:35-36
"I've sold my house and I am in the middle of moving. It's been so busy, but God has been so good. I started an in-home Bible study. Although my husband still is not home my stand remains strong." (Oklahoma)
"I have been standing for a few months and have learned much about God's guidance. I had gone out of town one day and noticed a Covenant Transport truck. That was the first sign to me of God and His reminder of my marriage. I wondered if God really cared and a car passed me with a license plate that said 'God loves you.' I know God is still in control. I am thankful for the reminders that God puts in my path." (South Carolina)
"Yesterday was my anniversary. It's been years since I saw or heard from my prodigal. This morning I asked God once again for some encouragement. God gave me a full rainbow promise, followed by a car ahead of me with the license that read 'TRST GOD.' 'Thank you, Lord, for Your personalized encouragement to wait on You.'" (Florida)
"Today is my wedding anniversary. One year ago on our anniversary, our divorce was final on paper. My husband and I talk often. He texted me today asking if I was okay. I was able to tell him that I am well, the Lord is with me and I am still praying for our marriage to be restored. Praise God my faith is in God alone that He can and will restore our marriage." (Arizona)
"Our anniversary passed and for the first time I was led not to contact my husband. Then in my devotions this morning, I was reading Genesis 24 where Abraham's servant is going to seek a wife for Isaac and asks God for success today. My eyes kept going over those words, and God spoke to my heart. I prayed that God would show me success with my husband initiating communication. He texted me a question about an hour after praying. We had a nice exchange. I praise God for His faithfulness." (Florida)
"God has really been good to me and my family and I want to give Him praise. My husband and I spent a wonderful evening together at our daughter's pageant and she was delighted to have her daddy there. Yesterday God allowed it that both of us met at her school at the same time to view her work. God is indeed a good God." (Jamaica)
"My prodigal was admitted to the hospital. It was on my heart to go see him and pray for him. The other person was by his bedside. Praying beforehand God gave me the grace to walk in the Spirit and be loving and kind to both of them. I praise God for the work He is doing in me." (California)
"I thank God for answering my prayers. He renewed my marriage with a fresh start and new way in which to communicate." (Missouri)
"Just when I thought the day couldn’t get any better, my husband called. He said he could not sleep. He had a lot on his mind. I quieted his apologies with love and assurance that all was forgiven. Our talk wasn’t long but it was refreshing and completely unexpected. I praise God for speaking to my husband’s heart." (Maryland)
"My husband promised that if I get a helper, he'll pay her salary. I was a bit reluctant because of the history with the previous helper. I decided to take everything to God. I thank God that this was the first month to pay the new helper and I didn't even remind him. He gave the money to me and he was even very friendly. To God be the glory because I know He is working in both me and my husband." (South Africa)