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NASB | 1 Corinthians 7:5 Stop depriving one another, except by agreement for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer, and come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Corinthians 7:5 Do not deprive each other [of marital rights], except perhaps by mutual consent for a time, so that you may devote yourselves [unhindered] to prayer, but come together again so that Satan will not tempt you [to sin] because of your lack of self-control. |
Bible Question: I'm a bit dense. That's what my wife says. I suppose in this case she's right. You state that I know what I should do. Honestly, I don't know, except to endure and expect God to settle the matter Himself. He is blessing my life and ministry beyond my wildest dreams and it is obvious that none of the success is to my credit, only to His Sovereign credit. The only thing I can imagine you might be saying is to actually bring my wife before the elders and expose the situation. With all due respect, I can't believe that doing such a thing would bring glory to God, but only destruction upon a new ministry about to move into a new building. As I said, I can't know what you mean by "the right thing". A trial of my wife would wipe out everything. |
Bible Answer: Dear mpa, Greetings in the name of Jesus! My friend, my heart goes out to you. I will pray that the wisdom and peace of the Holy Spirit be upon you. Brother, you won't find me placing blame upon you. That won't solve anything. But repentance can and will change everything, as the word itself means to change. I suggest a change of opinion in a few key areas. As a fellow minister, I adjure you, do not be caught in the trap of saying, "If I do this, this will surely happen." If your church is in the Lord's capable hands, then 'bringing both your wife and yourself before witnesses' (trustworthy elders, co-laborers), will not 'wipe out everything.' If your church is not in God's hands, then it is already doomed. Honesty and trust in your fellowship is ALWAYS recommended, and WILL bring glory to God. If you cannot trust your elders, then they are not elders. Period. Another area of repentance is the thought that God is 'blessing your life and ministry.' This cannot be! What is your idea of blessing? If you cannot enjoy a healthy relationship with your spouse, then I don't know what blessing is. Finally, bitterness and defiance cannot work to your benefit. Sure, they are 'understandable,' but they don't solve anything, in fact can only exacerbate your turmoil. Find peace in the Lord. Then act according to conviction, not fear. Your fears seems to be dictating your lack of action. My brother and co-worker, I don't know your exact situation. But I HAVE dealt with such things personally and with other ministers. Perhaps you could email me, and we could talk, without 'airing the underwear' on a public forum. I promise to listen, and to give only simple Biblical advice, not try to rule over you. If you use Hotmail or such, you can be assured of your privacy. We could also chat or even talk on the phone. I'm sorry that you are caught up in a seemingly 'no-win' situation, and would like to pray for victory anyway! charisjapan@hotmail.com for both mail and chat. Peace and hope to you in Christ Jesus, charis |