Here is something that I have been thinking about: For years, I have heard many opinions about the Scriptures providing a clear exemption / exception to the knowledge that "what God has joined together, let no man put asunder". I have heard many conversations regarding not only divorce and remarriage, but divorce by itself. The thought that is nagging at me now is the "what God has joined together" part of the equation. I think it is a WONDERFUL thing, when a man and woman are joined together in a COVENANT relationship with God. I have the joy of that union and it is positively one of the greatest blessings in my life. Now I need to shift gears to get to what I have been thinking about. I became a Christian a little over 24 years ago (May 4th, 1984). Undoubtedly the BEST day of my life. On that day, the LORD added me to the church. Can I, then, equate "the LORD added to the church..." to "what God has joined together..."? I think so. I also think there is an important point in that the LORD added me to the church. If the LORD has added me to the church, who then can subtract me? Who is to decide if I am "faithful" or not? Faithful to what? How will I be measured? I read the Bible. I study the Bible. I meditate upon the Bible. I pray for wisdom. I seek God's will. I seek His Spirit. I long for the Bread of Life. I worship according to the Scriptures. I teach others the Gospel. I serve in the community, because I want to BE Jesus to other people. (side note: don't get me wrong, I am not bragging, or adding up points to why I should be saved - the only thing that makes me special is Jesus Christ). So, my point - why are there some who would "subtract" me from the Lord? So, my frustration - who do you think you are? So, my conclusion - my peace, my consolation, my acceptance, my fellowship is with and in the LORD. I have no intention of trying to satisfy the inconsistent demands of men, who think I ought to meet some standard to be accepted by them. Christ accepted me, when most no-one else would. I am truly blessed. When I think about Jesus Christ, and the gift that God has given to me (to us) through him, I am filled with awe. Praise be to God. Mike If you must strive, strive for Jesus | 
