How does the company surrounding you influence your usability for the Kingdom? God inspired Bible writers to highlight the direct connection between an individual’s relationships and their future opportunities. For instance, Paul to the Corinthians highlights the vital role relationships play in their lives by writing, “Do not be deceived: Evil company corrupts good habits.” (1 Corinthians 15:33) Proverbs scripture uses explicit characteristics of seven poisons to avoid in your relationships. Relationship with man, but more significantly your relationship with God from which all life flows. Take a moment to consider whether these seven poisons are seeping into your life, for poison of any dosage ends in death.

“Do you take this man to be your husband, to live together in holy matrimony, to love him, to honor him, to comfort him, and to keep him in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?" A familiar clause of wedding ceremonies, broken by 50% of the people who respond, “I do.” Marriage is an intimate covenant God created in His garden. How do we know we are ready for marriage? Once married, how do we build a healthy marriage to stay committed to our professed “I do”?

Musicals, people either love or hate them. Did you know our God loves musicals? This summer, to my delight my sons and I find ourselves enjoying the magic of musicals, where people resolve problems and celebrate good times through song. Our God inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3), and He uses our songs of praise to establish strongholds against His enemies (Psalm 8:2).

Drip. Drip. Splat.

Drip. Drip. Splat.

The rhythmic sound catches my husband’s attention. He looks left to notice a puddle of water on his desk. Following the drops his eyes lock on the ceiling.

“Athena! I think we have a leak.”

My response?

“Call my Papi! I need my dad!”

“You cannot give what you do not possess,” a quote pertaining to both life’s physical and spiritual possessions.  John, a disciple of Jesus Christ, possessed an intimate fellowship with His Lord. John chosen by Jesus to partner in earthly ministry and chosen by the Holy Spirit to pen treasured scriptures, including the Revelation of Jesus Christ, writes a letter to the church encouraging others to enjoy God’s invitation to partner. The disciple who bore witness to the Word of God knew an individual’s spiritual health hinges on three aspects of life: prayer, the Word, and fellowship.