Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6
What does the Lord desire for our restored families and ministries? I believe His desire is that He receives glory through our restoration and that we share what He has done with others.
Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. 1 Chronicles 16:8
In 1990, Bob wrote words that he sensed the Lord would be pleased to have him write. His words affirmed that prodigals do come home. Little did he realize that manuscript would be the launching pad for a ministry that would touch thousands of couples around the world.
It is important that you and your mate proceed into your personal ministry at the same pace. If your returned prodigal is uncomfortable sharing your family’s story right now, wait until the Lord moves on their heart. Your marriage could be damaged and possibly destroyed if one mate shares too much detailed testimony before the other is ready.
Pray about your spouse becoming comfortable using your restoration story to help others. Don’t force or manipulate that one you love in an attempt to move the process along. Ask God to touch their heart. After all, isn’t that the way your mate came home?
It is important that both of you agree on how to share your story. One topic that should be carefully and prayerfully discussed with your mate is how much detail you share. You would be hard-pressed to find a dozen people who know the name of anyone Bob was involved with while divorced. Yet hundreds, if not thousands, of people know of his victories over many circumstances and situations. Ask God to help you and your spouse find His will for sharing your testimony.
He may lead you to share your testimony in more of a one-on-one setting with individuals, or the Lord may give you opportunities to share with a larger group. One is not better than the other. Anytime you are able to give Jesus credit for the work He has done in your marriage is a win. Don’t get hung up thinking you can only share with a large group. You may have a friend who needs to be encouraged by your testimony over lunch.
Our Lord leads each step of the way. Trust in Him. Seek His will and His ways. Reflect His love. He will be glorified because of the work He has done in your marriage.
God bless,
