It is my view (belief is more accurate I think) that I am living with the person God intended would be my best friend, partner, and spouse. I have come to this conviction and remain in it based on two frames of reference. First, it is the experiential results of walking together, struggling with life’s joys and pains, and the reflective knowledge that tells me what continues to occur in me as a person because of who she is. This and more brings me to a confident conclusion as the result of all that she is and does.
There is a second frame of reference. For all of Cherry’s reminders she does not nag! In contrast I look and reflect on the relationships between others on my journey. I see emerging battles fermenting and cascading out of control, all because of someone who believes (either sex or both) that nagging is an effective tool in a relationship.
From my perspective the stark contrast is a constant reminder of just how fortunate I am. It is so obvious that it would be “better to live alone in a tumbledown shack than share a mansion with a nagging spouse.” (Proverbs 25.24) Yet many do not have that choice. They are trapped in relationships where the aggravation eats on the corners of the soul constantly, tearing at the fabric of hope and joy, unraveling the threads of mercy given to us by God.
I find that everyone has their moments of giving hope, mercy, and acceptance to others. In these moments, however brief, the question rests squarely with you and me; how will we respond? What is our choice of action?
I can see God at work; in your life, mine, and in the lives of the people I meet. I can see the Adversary taking action as well – nagging, haranguing, and harassing. Each is a reminder of what is at stake. My advice is to revel in the God’s reminders, remember what is at stake, and always reach out to the God who has, is, and will win!
