I can't say that I have a lot of inspiration going into this post. I'm looking to buy a house which is exciting and intimidating at the same time. The real concerns I am having is moving into a sketchy area of town, but I don't expect any sympathy from some of the readers. The concern is not for me but for my future wife. It's not easy to live in a fallen world where the evil desires of man go unchecked, where sin is only atoned for by one man. Don't let the world fool you. Control is in God's hand and it always will be.

I have to say that I have been really overwhelmed by the grace of God these past weeks. We've started marriage counseling and it is so exciting to see how God has worked in Andrea's and my life throughout our relationship. Persevering through a mostly long distance relationship bears a lot of witness to God in our relationship. I had a conversation with someone who was starting a long distance relationship. I told her I'd gone 6 months without seeing Andrea, someone quickly added, "but you have God on your side". This struck me in a couple different ways. Unbelievers do watch our walks closely, they can see the new life that we live. That's why it is so important practice what you preach. One of the major things that damages our credibility is hypocrisy within Christianity. I have heard people say so many times, " she/he is a Christian and they do it why can't you". The subject doesn't matter, but the conflicting views projected on the unbeliever do.

26"So do not be afraid of them. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. 27What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Matthew 10:26-27

Make your life transparent so that the unbelieving may see the power of God in your life, but also so that when you sin your brother or sister may see and help you up.