The Devil Is Always Out To Get Us

The enemy attacks Christian marriages. From the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3), he has sought to lure individuals and couples into his traps. He wants to weaken or destroy marriages, and he delights when children are wounded in the process. Without suggesting a “the devil made me do it” philosophy, I list here some of the enemy’s primary tools I’ve seen over the years:
Neglect
The same couple that spent all their dating time together, grows apart after the wedding day. The neglect is usually subtle, though – which is the way the enemy often works.

Sin
We can’t get around this one. Regardless of what the sin is, disobedience that weakens one’s relationship with God also weakens our relationship with our spouse.
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Saying The Wrong Thing Is Too Easy

Many people really don’t know what to say when dealing with grieving friends, and sometimes they blurt out things that don’t help at all, but actually deepen the sorrowing person’s pain.
Most of the time, your words aren’t all that important anyway. By simply showing up—showing love, and a readiness to listen—you are able to bring comfort to these grieving ones. Sometimes, you ask the individual what he or she is facing, and then you just close your mouth and listen with both ears. Many times, simply because they don’t want to be uncomfortable, rejected, or look silly, people keep their distance from those who grieve. Or if they do spend time with that individual, they will steer clear of mentioning the one who died. That’s no comfort at all. The grieving spouse or parent wants that loved one to be remembered. Many times, we will say things don’t help at all, but actually deepen the sorrowing person’s pain.

…Pick up a copy of the June issue of JOY! to read the full article — on sale now.


Breaking The Video Game-Addicted Kid

Video games train kids to expect instant gratification and results. The more they play, the more they expect life to give them things easily. The only way to fight that is to restrict their playing. Limit the amount of time they are able to play video games daily. . If you have a kid with a video game addiction, here are 3 options you can use to make a change. A child does not need video games to have a rich childhood. If your child can’t handle it, toss it. Your family may be better off.
…Pick up a copy of the June issue of JOY! to read the full article — on sale now.


A Testimony Of Hope And Freedom

Life Child is a ministry that exists to reach orphaned and vulnerable children and restore communities for generational change. The ministry has grown exponentially and now operates not only in South Africa, but also Mozambique and Malawi. Their impact in these nations and in the lives of orphaned children in the communities is absolutely awe-inspiring. Life Child initiatives are focused on building firm foundations for the education, health, welfare, spiritual development, and relationships of children across life phases and focus areas, creating a platform for community transformation for future generations.
This testimony is of Dercia João, a precious little gift from God who was born into a hopeless situation. Through Life Child’s involvement, Dercia is now a bright shining example of God’s goodness and gracefulness.
…Pick up a copy of the June issue of JOY! to read the full article — on sale now.