Spiritually Unequal Marriage

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Shore Up the Walls-Nehemiah, Part Three

SUMites, welcome to part three and the conclusion to this series. Again, I am so blown away by what God is speaking to us and by you, this amazing community!…

NehemiahWall3SUMites, welcome to part three and the conclusion to this series. Again, I am so blown away by what God is speaking to us and by you, this amazing community! You have prayed for each other and given such precious words of encouragement to those in need. That is what the SUMite Nation is about and after all this rebuilding I do believe that is what we are in a way, an online nation. We are completely and totally God’s people here.

If you didn’t read parts ONE and TWO, please take a moment and read those first. That way you get the full picture. I can’t wait to see and hear about what God shows you, my dear friends. Please leave comments and reports, prayer requests and testimonies! Testimonies are faith builders. Even if you think it’s something small that you see God has done in you, your life, or your marriage as a result of these prayers, please share it. They are all gems to behold and share to glorify God. Now on the part three.

“Therefore You delivered them into the hand of their oppressors who oppressed them,
But when they cried to You in the time of their distress,
You heard from heaven, and according to Your great compassion
You gave them deliverers who delivered them from the hand of their oppressors. – Nehemiah 9:27

(Let me make a special note here that the Hebrew word for compassion here originates from the same word for "womb." Then Nehemiah speaks of deliverers, which has the meaning of salvation and victory. God's delivery is likened to new birth! And that is what I am sensing is coming, a time of new birth and rebirth for so many.)

Oh Lord, we are humbled and overjoyed at Your good intentions and love for us! We love You so much! Your great compassion releases the power of Your hand and brings miracles, signs and wonders. Thank you, Lord Jesus! You paved the way for all of this with Your great compassion. Your death and resurrection brought the greatest miracle of all-SALVATION-and it continues beyond the cross, beyond us and to eternity! It is constant and finished!

Then the two choirs took their stand in the house of God. So did I and half of the officials with me; – Nehemiah 12:40

and on that day they offered great sacrifices and rejoiced because God had given them great joy, even the women and children rejoiced, so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard from afar. – Nehemiah 12:43

Oh Lord, such promises are ahead for us! Thank you, Lord! Thank you! Lord, forgive our unbelief and help us BELIEVE! Then let our joy be heard from afar as we rejoice in how You have brought us and our families to victory! Holy Spirit, help us to sing songs of praises to our King. Fill our children with Your joy and help us show them how to worship You, Abba! Let our voices and praises be a sweet aroma to King Jesus and what He has done for us!

What a glorious day and time to come, my friends! Ask, pray, and believe! God's favor and heart are for us. Now I want to pray for each of you:

Abba, I pray for a fresh anointing over every SUMite. I pray that You will release new gifts, new provision, new strength and prosperity over every single one of them. Lord, reveal and destroy every lie that keeps them from believing how much You love them and that You have given them every good gift.
Destroy the lies that tell them they aren't worthy to serve You and replace it with the truth that they are Your precious sons and daughters who You have called specifically to You for such a time as this.


Destroy the lie that tells them their situation is hopeless and won't ever change and replace it with great hope and expectation in Jesus that is sprung from the very heart and purpose and miracle of His life, death and resurrection, because the power that did this now resides in us through Your Holy Spirit. And it is COMPLETE!


Holy Spirit, give each of my dear sisters and brothers in Christ clear discernment and recognition of Your voice. In the name of Jesus Christ, I break off anything over them that would block or hinder them from hearing Your voice. In the name of Jesus, I break the chains of addiction, of distraction, of deception and of fear. Chains are falling off and crumbling to the ground-we declare this in Your mighty and powerful name, King Jesus!


King Jesus, in Your name I pray against any and all plans the enemy has set up against each of them and this SUMite nation. Guard over us with Your warring angels. Surround us as we build and rebuild our lives, our marriages, and our families with our prayers, our faith and our love. I speak new levels of faith and strength and belief into every single one of us! We are Yours and You are ours!


Oh Abba, thank You, thank You, thank You. You are so good, so faithful, so full of love and compassion. We praise You now for all You are doing in our lives. We wait expectantly for You. In Jesus' mighty and holy name, amen!

My precious sisters and brothers in Jesus, I love you with the passion of Christ and consider it one of the greatest privileges and honors of my life to be on this journey with you. If there is something that you are specifically struggling with-to believe in, to let go of, to step out in faith-leave a comment. Let's continue to rally around each other and pray in our strength and power as a community who loves and worships God. If you are uncomfortable sharing on this forum, send an email to me directly at dineen@mismatchedandthriving.com.

And remember this: Each step of obedience brings an increase of faith. Our God's favor is upon us and He is fighting for us! Believe it!

Believing and praying with and for you!

Dineen

Related articles
The Seeds of God's Love
Shore Up the Walls – Nehemiah, Part Two
Shore Up the Walls – Nehemiah, Part One

Comments

122 responses

  1. Jen Avatar
    Jen

    Amen, Amen, Amen!!
    Father, thank you for this community. Thank you for your Word, for your Love, for the Cross. Thank you for showing us the way when we are lost, for guiding us when we are unsure and for encouraging us when we take a step.
    I pray with Dineen & all my sisters and brothers in Christ, I lift my hands to you, I surrender my heart to you. I pray for those in our lives who have yet to accept you as Lord, to know you as Father. I pray for the protection of our children and marriages. For those that you place in our path, I pray for the words to lead them to you.
    In your great name Jesus, Amen.
    Have a great Monday Sumites 🙂

    Reply
  2. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    POWERFUL prayer and lesson again Neen!
    Two points struck me.
    As I have printed out the “Rebuilding Your Wall” from the Nehemiah series with the Living Truth I follow I JUST came across a paragraph that struck me to write: Through my brokenness God has taken me back to CHILDLIKE FAITH!
    Never has my Jesus become as REAL as He is now for me.
    Testimony! Indeed these do strengthen and encourage us to hear what God is doing on this earth. We can walk by faith but sometimes we need tangible evidence to get walking again and testimonies are just THAT! TANGIBLE EVIDENCE!
    I am chompin’ at the bit for the next person to enter my life and start talking about how “there is no God” because God just gave me a good opening line for that conversation!
    “Can you share your testimony on that with me?”
    March on Sumite souls!
    He goes before you!!!
    Psalm 59:10

    Reply
  3. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    Amen to the words SURRENDER Jen. OH SUMITES! When we surrender He MOVES BIG TIME!!!! You will be left swirling in the eddy He creates!

    Reply
  4. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    Thank you Dineen for your beautiful prayer. Again, it’s like the Holy Spirit speaks directly to my heart and encourages me when most I need Him.
    This weekend was one of revelation.
    On Friday night I went to a Pray/worship with some sisters from my church. It was a time for us to just worship Him in song and prayer. Opening our hearts to Him. Where we draw near to our Lord individually and as a sisterhood. It was so amazing. I felt His love envelope me. Through my prayers, I asked for guidance and strength for the trial I am facing with my marriage. My Abba answered me with, “let go” and “stand”. I asked him how I could do that. These two things seem to contradict themselves. I kept hearing/seeing messages about grace. His grace being sufficient. So I just took these pearls and decided to trust. And to start letting go of Marco. But I felt such peace and joy after that. The kind of peace only He can give.
    The following night, my husband went out to “party”. He didn’t come home. I left for church at 7:30 AM and he still was not home.
    But I still had my peace. I was letting go.
    By late Sunday, when I get home. He tells me we need to talk about last night. I agree. So he asks me for a separation. He’s drowning in this marriage and wants to live and be free. He said he has no love for me. I tell him I still love him, still wish to be married to him but that I will not stand in the way of his happiness. I also told him that the hole he is trying to fill with this need for “life & freedom” can only be filled by Jesus. That only Jesus can fill his life with love and healing…. He called me a fanatic. (Which is something I am proud to be called!)
    We discussed division of items and he will keep me on his medical insurance and car insurance. I’ll be moving out next week (I’m going to our church’s women’s retreat this weekend). . . . . So I’m letting go. But I will still stand for my marriage. Through Gods strength, I will walk hand in hand ( mostly in my Abba’s arms) with Jesus. He has the final decision. I can only trust in Him.
    I ask you sister for unity in prayer for additional peace in my heart and mind and for Marco’s salvation.
    Thank you in advance my Jesus for my victory in this trial, as I cling to Jeremiah 29:11
    Love you all my sisters!

    Reply
  5. Lynette Duquette Avatar
    Lynette Duquette

    I have been so greatly encouraged by this series. I know I must do better in shoring up my walls. I could use prayer though because I am having another issue with my bank regarding my mortgage. They claim I have not sent the last two payments whe I have the proof I did. I am praying that God provide a huge miracle so I can get out from under this bank. Whether it be a financial blessing to pay off the mortgage or just a way to be able to use a different bank. It may also be that God is using this to get me out of this house. I grew up here and there is much oppression from my childhood that lingers. The house also needs a ton of work that we cannot afford to do, so much to the point here I don’t have people over because I am embarrassed of what it looks like. Not sure exactly what God is doing so I need clarity also.

    Reply
  6. GeGe Avatar
    GeGe

    Holding you up in prayer, you are anointed to do great things. The Lord bless & keep you in perfect peace.
    Love you

    Reply
  7. GeGe Avatar
    GeGe

    In my prayer time yesterday morning the Lord lead me to go through the house and anoint every door and window with oil/blood of Jesus. I did this and the house felt so much better & more peaceful. In confirmation at church yesterday am one of the couples having their baby dedicated to the Lord also asked to have the baby anointed with oil, not sure why they do not do this all the time, does anyone know?
    I will have to ask my pastor. I noted after church that my youngest son, still at home, was in a great mood – Praise The Lord. I continue to pray that he will return to having a close relationship with the Lord that he once had. As far as my husband goes, I’m letting go and turning him over to God as I have many times before.
    Love you all
    Hugs & prayers to all SUMites

    Reply
  8. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    Praying for an abundance of peace in your home Gege!

    Reply
  9. Pat Avatar
    Pat

    Carmen, I am praying for you and your husband. That theLord will continue to reveal to you the wisdom from heaven in when to speak and how to listen not only to God but what your husband is saying to you. I pray that The Lord will strenghth you that you will not be discourage or if you are that The Lord will encouage you and you will walking in peace and love. I pray that the Lord will bring Devine intervention your husband’s way and soften his heart and take the veil from his eyes. During this time of seperation that our father will have 100 percent acces to him without distractions. The Lord is a restorer and lord we ask that you restore and fix whatever is broken. In Jesus name I pray Amaen. Nothing Lord is impossible for you NOTHING!!!! Amen :))) hugs

    Reply
  10. Pat Avatar
    Pat

    Dineen what an awesome post!!! Boy did I feel the anointing and power in your prayer!! Thank you and I pray the same to you.as I read the last chapter of Neh. With all of the rules and regulations the thoughts which kept coming to my mind was thank you, Father for the blood of Jesus!!!!! The new convent we live under. With Christ their is freedom!!!! Who can keep all of those rules and regulations?obviously no one could). How nice and what a fresh of breath air it is to have a King. We serve that knows what it is to be tried and tempted and understands our weakness, and say come to me and you are forgiven. I will change your heart. All you have to to is believe in me and if you can’t even do that ask me to help you in your unbelief and I will help you. I am not looking for perfection I am looking for a Humble and willing heart. I know you will make mistakes and that is ok just keep coming to me and I will change you from glory to glory. Ahhhhh thank you Abba and thank you Jesus!!! You all have a fantastic and blessed day love and hugs:)))

    Reply
  11. Liz Avatar
    Liz

    I am always praying for restoration of my marriage, but I have a more specific prayer request this month. In no planning of my own, I ended up having a week off of work and the same week staying at my aunt’s home to take care of her dog (getting me out of my parents house for the week). It also turns out that my husband who has been doing an internship this summer finishes his last day the earlier week. So we both have this week coming up completely off and a neutral place to spend time together. I really do believe that God has opened this week up for us and I am trusting that God will move in my husband’s heart to want to spend that time with me, I haven’t asked him about it yet. Prayers will be appreciated week of 19-23 if anybody thinks of it.

    Reply
  12. Liz Avatar
    Liz

    One of the most amazing things I have seen through the journey of my marriage issues, is how God prepares us for what is coming if we stay in his presence and are listening for his voice. Its such a comfort to me and I see it here in your story.
    Deut 31:8 “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

    Reply
  13. Dawn Avatar
    Dawn

    Carmen, I have been praying for you and Marco every night. I will continue to do so. My heart hurts for you. Sending you love and prayers from Colorado.

    Reply
  14. Dawn Avatar
    Dawn

    I will be praying for you and your husband, Liz. I will pray for God to break down all barriers between the two of you and fill both of your love with hearts for one another.

    Reply
  15. Dawn Avatar
    Dawn

    I have to share a divine God appointment between my husband and my friend’s husband. For starters, I’ve been praying for this friend’s husband. He is a godly man, but has issues that she asked me to pray about. So she and I have been praying for each other’s spouses and marriages. We have noticed amazing changes in her husband, Ray.
    Ray, who is a police officer and was on duty, stopped to go to a public restroom at a park yesterday and my husband happened to be there riding his bike. My husband called out to him and hugged him (miracle in itself.) My husband then proceeded to tell Ray how he still wants to work things out with me, but is just confused and not sure what to do. He also said that he has no one to talk to about all of this and would love it if Ray could come by and visit sometime.
    There are so many miracles in all of this, besides the obvious miracle of them meeting up in the first place. One is that Ray’s wife and I go back to elementary school and they are clearly “my” friends. I am shocked that my husband would initiate the conversation, much less greet him literally with open arms. Second is that I have been praying for someone to come into his life that would be a mouthpiece for God and the Holy Spirit and Ray has a lot of respect for me, for God and for the covenant of marriage. Last, I almost invited my husband on an all day outing yesterday and really wanted to, but clearly heard God telling me that I shouldn’t. It didn’t occur to me until much later last night that I had I invited him, he would have missed this appointment. I also love that I’ve been praying for this man for weeks and it has come full circle that God has placed him in J’s path.
    God is SO good. Thank you all for the prayers. Please keep them coming. God is moving in a BIG way!

    Reply
  16. Cindy Barnes Avatar
    Cindy Barnes

    Good morning ladies, I am not on this site too often to respond, but I do read your emails and I do want share a little bit of what God has been doing in my marraige. My husband and I have been married for a little over a year and during this time, he would leave because he was not feeling the marriage thing. Well, with a lot of prayer, fasting, and seeking God, God spoke and acted and my husband is finally home. This isn’t even the breakthrough. I have been feeling that God is trying to do something even greater and breakthrough is coming. I feel a forceful push in the spirit and I know this is time of preparation for what God is trying to do in us and through us. Today is my first day of the 21 day fast and I ask for your prayers. The enemy has been attacking me and trying to frustrate my walk with the Lord, but I know better, because even my Father told me not to be deceived by the enemies lies. I thank you ladies for all that you do. You are doing a great thing and I pray many blessings over you. Amen!

    Reply
  17. Marlene Avatar
    Marlene

    I have found this series on Nehemiah to be very insightful and uplifting…just what the Lord knew I needed right now. I have been through a series on Nehemiah a couple of years ago at church, and God spoke to me then, but this time the words and insights shared by you Dineen have really allowed God to speak with fresh clarity.
    I am praying for each one who is facing challenges, struggles and changes in their lives.
    I truly sense and believe that there is a mighty moving of the Holy Spirit amongst us, and the Lord is bringing more than we could ever hope or imagine. Amen!!
    God’s blessings upon each person and family represented in our SUMite community. I feel so blessed to be considered part of this community.

    Reply
  18. Marvie Avatar
    Marvie

    I am always so encouraged after spending time with the Sumite nation. God is doing something that’s for sure in this place. I’m waiting expectantly. Thank you for speaking life through Christ in our situations.

    Reply
  19. Martha Bush Avatar
    Martha Bush

    I am trying to catch back up on Nehemiah series. I was out of town all weekend with no computer, so I just wanted you to know that I didn’t skip out. Will get back today to reading each part and all comments. This is so exciting to me to connect it all together with the community.

    Reply
  20. Noz Avatar
    Noz

    Thank you Sumites for your comments, you never know when your testimony helps another one… Your situations resonate with me so much because I am in the same situation. My husband is an unbeliever, he has told me we are getting divorced, but the Lord has done mighty things.. I believe my hubby has an anger problem emanating from childhood, but the Lord has taught me to focus on me and how I contribute to the worsening of the marriage.. I have been trying but sometimes it gets so hard. My Sumite family, please pray for me as I pray for you.. Reminds me of the song by Hezekiah Walker and the LFCC – I need you to survive.. if we pray for each other, we are helping each other to survive.. I need you Sumites in my life.

    Reply
  21. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Amen! Awesome prayer, Jen. Hugging you!

    Reply
  22. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Amen, Joanne, on the verse! Yes, Lord, let us look with triumph upon our foe! Hallelujah!

    Reply
  23. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Abba, thank You for this amazing peace and comfort You are pouring into Carmen. I pray that You will continue to guide and protect her heart and mind. Lord Jesus, meet Marco right where he is with Your stunning love and presence! Show him that all this “freedom” he is pursuing is just a trap, a lie. Lord Jesus, in Your name, we command the enemy away from this man and this marriage and command to the pit of hell from where it came. Abba, send an army of angels to surround Carmen, Marco and their family. Fill them all with Your Holy Spirit power and shine Your holy light into the darkness that is in Marco. Replace it with Your truth, Jesus! Replace the darkness in this man with YOU! Let him taste You, Lord, and savor what true freedom tastes like. The living water from You, King Jesus, pour it out on Marco. Drench him with Your love. In Your powerful name we pray, Jesus, amen!

    Reply
  24. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Praying, girl! Hugs!

    Reply
  25. Helianthusblog Avatar
    Helianthusblog

    Noz, I am praying for your situation. I applaud you for trying to deal with your part of the problem. My husband has an anger problem from way back also. I second the recommendation of the books listed in the margin, especially Boundaries In Marriage and Thriving Despite a Difficult Marriage. They shored up my faith in times of need. I am glad to serve you in prayer!

    Reply
  26. Helianthusblog Avatar
    Helianthusblog

    Carmen, I pray that God will make you strong during this trial. I pray your faith will grow and that your Creator will be your Husband. God bless you.

    Reply
  27. Jen Avatar
    Jen

    Father I lift Carmen up to you Lord. I Thank you for surrounding her with your peace and Love. I add my prayers with those who have prayed here already today…in your Great and Powerful Name Jesus, Amen.
    Jer 29:11 … is one of my favorite verses, when I hit a rough patch last summer with my Hubby, I was reminded of it everywhere I went. May you find Strength in God’s promise in that verse!!

    Reply
  28. Sarah Beth Avatar
    Sarah Beth

    Carmen,
    My heart goes out to you. I haven’t told but a couple people this, (but I feel safe here and like I won’t be misunderstood), it’s so very hard to say and admit, but my husband told me a few months ago that he has thought a lot about leaving, that he cares about me but doesn’t love me. That he thinks he would be happier with someone else. It has been the hardest trial I think I have ever gone through, just thinking of the possibility. I can’t imagine what it must have felt like when Marco actually said those words to you, that seem so finalizing, but I am glad to read that you have some peace and comfort. I will be praying for you, dear sister.
    God has been faithful to me, even though I have not been faithful through this trial, and He has been so patient and gentle and has slowly been bringing me along, teaching me to believe that this could be for my good somehow, and trusting Him with my future. He’s been leading me to a place where I am willing to surrender even my husband to Him and lose it all for a worthy God who gave it all to me to begin with. He has helped me take my focus off my situation and put my focus on Him!!! What an amazingly different outlook I have when I am looking to Him instead of myself. God is asking me to put Him before my husband and to not make my husband an idol by trying to hold on to him by doing just about anything and going to great length to keep him with me. I also hear God telling me, “Let go. If you don’t you won’t be at peace.” I don’t know if that means my husband will leave me or not, but I have to focus on my relationship with Christ and trust.
    Here are some verses that have been very encouraging to me recently:
    “I put my trust in You, O Jehovah, let me not be put to shame forever. In your righteousness deliver me and rescue; stretch out Your ear to me and save me. Be a rock of strength for me, to come always to You; You have given a command to save me; for You are my are my rock and my fortress. O my God, deliver me out of the hand of the wicked one, and out of the palm of the unjust one and the ruthless one. For you are my hope, O Lord Jehovah, my trust from my youth.” Psalm 71:1-5
    You may feel like everything around you is changing and you can’t count on anyone or anything. Nothing in this world stays the same. But be encouraged that God is our ROCK! He is solid, never changing, always there for us. He’s our HOPE! There’s always hope through Christ.
    “His oath, His covenant, His Blood
    Support me in the whelming flood.
    When all around my soul gives way
    He then is all my hope and stay.
    On Christ the Solid Rock I stand,
    All other ground is sinking sand.”
    “Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Psalm 61:1-2
    “Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me; for my soul trusts in thee; yea, in the shadow of thy wing will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast.” Psalm 57:1
    I’m praying for you. I know God’s going to do great things in your life by allowing this to happen to you. I pray you’ll continue in peace and have joy and that you will be a shinning light and amazing testimony to those around you while you go through this unbelievably difficult time. May God be your strength. God can do ANYTHING!

    Reply
  29. Sarah Beth Avatar
    Sarah Beth

    Praying for you Liz!
    Lord God, I pray that you will soften Liz’s husband’s heart, that you will give them this time together and that it will be a healing time and a time full of love. That they will both feel closer to each other than either of them has in a long time, and that her husband will want to hold on to that closeness and be willing to work for it. I ask that Liz will be a shining light to husband next week, and that He will want what she Has in you. That he will take just one step closer to giving it all to you next week. I pray that Liz will have wisdom in how and when to ask her husband. Thank you for choosing us as your children, and saving us from our sin. I pray you’ll do the same for our husbands. Thank you for being not only or God, but also our loving Father. Amen.

    Reply
  30. Sarah Beth Avatar
    Sarah Beth

    What an amazing testimony of God’s providence! Aren’t you glad we serve a God that has a perfect plan!!! Rejoicing with you, Dawn!

    Reply
  31. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    So awesome, Sarah Beth! Thank you for sharing this with us. Hugs!

    Reply
  32. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Praise God! That’s awesome, GeGe. Hugs!

    Reply
  33. Sarah Beth Avatar
    Sarah Beth

    Praying for you, Liz.
    Lord God, I pray that you will give Liz wisdom in when and how to ask her husband about next week. I pray that you will soften his heart and go. That it will be a time of healing and love for them both. That they will have a closeness than they haven’t had in a long time and that her husband will want to hold on to that and be willing to work to keep it. I ask that Liz will be a shining light to her husband that he will want what she has in you. I pray that next week you will bring him just one step closer to you, one step closer to surrendering it all to you, one step closer to seeing clearly his abundant need for a saviour. Thank you, Lord, for choosing us as your children, and saving us from our sin. I pray you’ll do this for our husbands. Thank you for not only being our God, but for being our loving Father also. Amen.

    Reply
  34. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Prayed for you this morning, Liz!
    Abba, bless this special time for Liz and her husband and let it be all You intend it to be. Help her husband to love her as You love the church, Lord Jesus. Flood him with Your love and a deep love for Liz. We pray for Your healing and restoration, Jesus, amen!

    Reply
  35. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Oh Dawn, girl, as I took you before the throne on my walk and pray this week, I sensed God would be moving in a mighty way. Praise God! Love how He put ALL the pieces in the right place and at the right time. That is God’s testimony to YOU that He is doing this for you and for your marriage, putting all things in His place and His timing.
    Abba, we pray Your gracious will be done right here on earth in Dawn and her husband’s live just as you have done it in heaven! Let there be no separation of any kind anymore! In Jesus’ holy name, amen!

    Reply
  36. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Abba, pour joy and strength into Cindy. I pray she will wake every morning of her fast so full of You! Holy Spirit, speak to her heart more clearly than ever before. In Jesus’ name, we declare breakthroughs and stronghold broken in this time of fasting, we declare restoration and renewal for Cindy and her marriage, and we proclaim the blood of Jesus over her husband to save and sanctify him as a son of the Most High King. In Your name, Jesus, amen!

    Reply
  37. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Oh, amen, Marlene! I’m so glad you sense it too, my friend. God is moving in a mighty way! Hugging you!

    Reply
  38. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Hugging you tight, Marvie. 🙂

    Reply
  39. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Amen, Martha! Welcome home. Love you!

    Reply
  40. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Abba, fill Noz with such peace and grace that it just pours out of her even in the face of her husband’s anger. Shield her from harm and shield this marriage from the enemy. Lord Jesus, bind this spirit of anger from this man and replace it with Your healing and love. Lord Jesus, I pray that any encounter Noz has with her husband’s anger is met only with Your overwhelming love and totally disarms him! And let that love pour out of Noz so strongly that even she is amazed by it and so very blessed and filled with JOY! Strength, Lord, Your strength for Noz is unending flows. Amen!

    Reply
  41. Lynette Duquette Avatar
    Lynette Duquette

    I just finished Nehemiah chapter 4. It’s such a picture of what the Sumites go through and what we are to one another. We go to task to do the work of rebuilding our marriages, but of course the evil one comes in and discourages us and tries to interrupt our work. We need to se a guard though as we work. We have the armor of God, we have prayer and His word, but we also have fellow workers here in the SUm community. Some do the work such as Lynn and Dineen posting on the blog, some fight by prayer, intercession, etc. We encourage one another to keep doing the good work, we encourage each other to remember that God sees and He will fight with us and for us. Love to all.

    Reply
  42. Jen Avatar
    Jen

    That is sooo awesome!!

    Reply
  43. Teresa T Avatar
    Teresa T

    Sarah Beth, King Solomon had a thousand wives and concubines. Yet, if he wrote Ecclesiastes, he said that too was futile. A lot of people chaise happiness in the next best thing. But we know where to find truth and joy.
    Thank you for sharing in order to comfort a sister.

    Reply
  44. Teresa T Avatar
    Teresa T

    You showed a lot of grace and class. You continue in my prayers.

    Reply
  45. Teresa T Avatar
    Teresa T

    Lord, please embrace Cindy during this fast. Use the time to speak clearly into her heart. Thank you for drawing her husband home to her. Strengthen this family. Amen.

    Reply
  46. Teresa T Avatar
    Teresa T

    My husband also has anger issues that started as a boy. I am seeing such improvement. It is not a perfect path, but really so much better. Prayer is the answer. If you are willing to share his first name, I will pray for him by name.

    Reply
  47. Pat Avatar
    Pat

    Dinesen, what am awesome post!!!! Boy did I feel the anointing of your prayer. Thank you!!! Praying the same for you. When I was reading the last chapter of Neh. The thoughts which came running through my head were. Was who could keep all of those rules and regulations( obviously no one could). So it makes me that more thankful for what Christ did on the CROSS!!!! That we live under the new covenant. Jesus is saying all you have to do is believe in me just come to me with a humble and willing heart it can even be the size of a mustard seed. If you have a hard time coming to me because of your unbelief ask ME to help you in your unbelief and I will help you. What a breathe if fresh air this is to have a king who knows our weakness and has also been tried and temped and still choose to love us and use for His Glory all which he has we have thank you Abba and thank Jesus for your obedience. Love to all hugs. :)))

    Reply
  48. Carrie Avatar
    Carrie

    Carmen,
    Hold tight, stand strong. My husband left me just over a year ago saying that he hadn’t been happy for a couple of months and that he felt as though this chapter of his life was over. He waited till January to tell me that he wanted a divorce. He waited till his birthday this May to file. God had told me in many different ways that my marriage is not over and that my husband as well as our daughter will be walking with him again. I feel that same peace. It is mere days till the divorce is supposed to be final and he has completely changed his life. He lives at his mom’s in a basement apartment, works at his old job one day a week and has a different job the rest of the time. Our daughter is so angry, but I hold fast to the promises!
    As my husband filed for divorce, God gave me a song by Chris August, “Restore”! Another promise!
    Rise up oh women and men of faith! Rise up it is our time!
    Love to you all!

    Reply
  49. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    I’m so glad it encouraged you, Lynette! You caught the vision and God’s heart here, my friend.
    So I found one more tidbit on Sanballat. According to my Bible dictionary his name means Sin (the god) is healed. Weird, huh? He was a practicing Jew so his resistance definitely seems to be more political than anything else because his position would be diminished some if Jerusalem rose again to have position and power. So, there we go. Oldest motivation in the book? At least one of them. I’m sure the enemy plagued him with all kinds of fears which fed his paranoia and fed his impure motivations.

    Reply
  50. Mandy Avatar
    Mandy

    Praise God! Rejoicing with you, Dawn!

    Reply
  51. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Amen, Pat! Hugging you, my sweet friend. 🙂

    Reply
  52. Carrie Avatar
    Carrie

    I have been so blessed and encouraged since I found this family! I rarely post but this series has been inspirational
    and very moving! I pray every day for my family and firmly believe that God has a divine plan for us all.
    I just want to say “Thank you!” “I love you!”

    Reply
  53. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Oh, my sweet friend, I wish I could reach through the screen and give you big hug. We ARE family, praise God! Love you too, girl. Big virtual hugs zinging your way. 🙂

    Reply
  54. Noz Avatar
    Noz

    Hi Teresa, my husband’s name is Emmanuei. I thank you so much for your prayers. I thank God for such a wonderful community.

    Reply
  55. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    After reading everyone’s comments I am greatly encouraged, I think someone who doesn’t know God would find it strange to hear that word used for all the trials presented, BUT GOD comes closest to those who will seek Him in these very times and He will use trials in the greatest ways. We as His children realize that we need to look back from time to time to see where/what He walked through with us and then we see how much more our faith has grown into childlike adoration and trust in our Father.
    I pray for brokenness for every heart who truly does not know Jesus in a personal way.
    Break your children Father who are walking their life in a stubborn selfish manner. Keeping their eyes only on themselves and what pleases them. Open their eyes and heart to see and understand there is so much more in this life they were made for. Not just the simple earthly desires that please the flesh but that there is a plan for their life with joy unspeakable waiting around the corner. I pray a seed of desire springs forth in their souls today God. Let them feel deep dissatisfaction with the life they live now, with the life they think they want. Begin now in this day God to pierce holes, many, many, many holes, into their darkness so they can see and know Satan’s lies.
    Amen
    Shine your light for the whole world to see Sumites. Jesus in us will draw them to the truth.
    Love you all and praying for victory in Jesus name!

    Reply
  56. Lynette Duquette Avatar
    Lynette Duquette

    So true! I know fear fed much of my wrong motives for a long time!

    Reply
  57. Lynette Duquette Avatar
    Lynette Duquette

    I know that feeling too! Much of what I did in my marriage and in trying to save my marriage was motivated by fear. Motives would be a great discussion topic.

    Reply
  58. Dawn Avatar
    Dawn

    Good Morning Dineen,
    Thank you so much for your beautiful prayers, your constant encouragement and for taking us before the throne. You prayed exactly what is on my heart – that I will see all of God’s promises right here on earth. It’s so hard to hear God and know that what has already been accomplished in heaven and not see it yet with our human eyes. I believe prayers are the greatest gift anyone can give, so please know that your prayers mean the world to me!
    Dawn

    Reply
  59. Pam Osborne Avatar
    Pam Osborne

    Dineen & Lynn, firstly your ministry thru our father has truly been life changing for me in my mis-matched marriage. Secondly, love the series on Nehemiah about shoring up our walls – so true. Lastly, I love acronyms and wanted to point one out from your post. You said in the post to ask, pray, believe or APB. What could be better than sending out an “all points bulletin” or APB to Christ!
    Love to all SUMites.

    Reply
  60. Pam Osborne Avatar
    Pam Osborne

    My prayers go out to you Carmen, and I offer these words of encouragement. Jesus has already walked our life’s path ahead of us and knows every turn and pothole in the road. He’s at the finish line asking us to trust him. Peace & encouragement be with you.

    Reply
  61. Sandi Sill Avatar
    Sandi Sill

    I just want to Thank you for obeying God and for this amazing community. I have been following all of your teachings and thoughts for way over a year now…maybe longer. I was saved at a very early age but had a rough childhood and brought lots of baggage into my adulthood. I have had two unsuccessful marriages and am married to a good man who confessed that he had a relationship with Jesus but really didnt. He went to church with me the first two years of our marriage (we have been married for over three years now) It’s been so hard for me. I ended up leaving for 6 months and felt that God wanted me to work things out with my husband and we did. But now I am struggling with my faith our church went through a Pastor change and now I am dealing with an illness and I will have to have minor surgery soon. I feel tired and am not sure what direction God wants me to go in. I am the only one in my immediate family serving the Lord. We have 6 adult children and 5 grandchildren between us. I really need your prayers. Thanks and Be Blessed

    Reply
  62. Jenny Avatar
    Jenny

    Lyrics to “The Warrior is a Child”
    “Lately I’ve been winning battles left and right
    But even winners can get wounded in the fight
    People say that I’m amazing, Strong beyond my years
    But they don’t see inside of me
    I’m hiding all the tears
    They don’t know that I go running home when I fall down
    They don’t know who picks me up when no one is around
    I drop my sword and cry for just a while
    ‘Cause deep inside this armor
    The warrior is a child
    Unafraid because His armor is the best,
    But even soldiers need a quiet place to rest
    People say that I’m amazing, never face retreat
    But they don’t see the enemies
    That lay me at His feet.”
    ———————————-
    I sat TRYING to pray this morning, feeling wounded and weary, and this song came to mind. I have laid my sword down, am sitting at His feet, and don’t know how to pray for my family. We are so broken, and I am finding it hard today not to hold anger in my heart because I feel like so much of our situation is my husband’s fault.

    Reply
  63. Sarah Beth Avatar
    Sarah Beth

    Amen, Pam! What a comfort. Thank you.

    Reply
  64. Dawn Avatar
    Dawn

    Jenny,
    I’m so sorry. My heart and prayers go out to you today.

    Reply
  65. Dawn Avatar
    Dawn

    Dineen,
    I apologize if this is a double post. I don’t see my first one. I just wanted to say I can’t thank you enough for your prayers. They mean the world to me. Your prayer read my mind. I know my marriage is restored in the heavens, but oh how I long to see it with my own eyes here on earth. Thank you again for your love, encouragement and prayers.

    Reply
  66. Marlene Avatar
    Marlene

    Praying for you & Marco.
    Jeremiah 29:11 is one of my favourite verses. I also find comfort in Proverbs 16:9… “In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.”
    God’s peace and strenght are amazing!!

    Reply
  67. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    FAther restore our sister as she feels defeated because of the enemies apparent victories in her family. Lord Jesus we know You are in control of everything and so we pray for Jenny at this time for serious intervention from You, the Almighty God of this Universe You created. The heavens and the earth are Your’s and everything in it. Let that same Power invade Jenny’s life, invade Jenny’s home, invade Jenny’s family today so that she doesn’t have to lay broken at Your feet any longer. Encourage her with Your strong and Mighty ways. Send in Your angels now God. I pray this believing Lord that it is already in process. Amen God. We praise Your name and give You the Glory so that many others will witness the great works You do here in our community.

    Reply
  68. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Love that, Pam! Awesome! 🙂

    Reply
  69. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Hi Sandi, my friend, press into Jesus and stay there. Let this be your time to seek God and receive His comfort and healing.
    Lord Jesus, bring Your healing to Sandi. Heal her heart, her spirit and her body. Fill her to overflowing with Your Holy Spirit and wrap her in Your mighty arms. Lord, I pray she can actually feel this and is flooded with peace to confirm it. Show her how to stand in Your no matter what is going on around her. You are her constant place of rest and joy, Abba. Hold her close and remind her how much You love her. In Your holy name, Jesus, amen!

    Reply
  70. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    My sweet friend, I’m praying for you, constantly!
    Lord Jesus, hold Jenny tight and close in Your mighty loving arms. Fill her with such peace, Abba, such joy! Remind her of Your promises and give her Your reassurance that all of this is in Your control and that the lies are crumbling, the deception is breaking, and the truth is breaking forth like a new dawn in their lives. Restoration is coming! Abba, fill her with such reassurance and vision to see all this is darkness being cleared away by Your light! Thank You, King Jesus! Amen!

    Reply
  71. Sarah Beth Avatar
    Sarah Beth

    I can relate to those lyrics. Gave me goosebumps. So glad that God is willing to pick “me up when no one is around”.
    I’m praying for you, Jenny. My heart goes out to you. Be strong, sister. God is on your side!

    Reply
  72. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    Thank you Gege. You are in my prayers as well.

    Reply
  73. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    Thank you Pat. I am stumbling a bit. But I need to regain my focus. Thank you for your prayers.?

    Reply
  74. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    Thank you Liz. It’s sometimes hard for me to stay in his presence and listen to His guidance. The pain and anger are creeping in. But I’m on my knees again. Seeking Him.

    Reply
  75. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    THANK YOU Dawn. This means so much to me. ?

    Reply
  76. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    AMEN. sending you a HUGE hug! ?I love you sis!

    Reply
  77. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    Thank you!!!!

    Reply
  78. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    Thank you Jen! This means so much to me!?

    Reply
  79. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    ???oh Sara Beth thank you soo much. I am overwhelmed and honored by the outpouring of love I am receiving from my SUM sister. Thank you for sharing your heart with us.
    I too still feel like I am failing. I’m so defensive at times. I need to be more loving. I need to Pray and ask for guidance before I come near Marco. And I struggle with thoughts that I am possibly still making Marco my idol. It’s like I have this fear of letting go. Even though my Abba has told me to do so. I need to surrender him completely unto Jesus.
    Thank you again.

    Reply
  80. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    Thank you Teresa for your prayers?

    Reply
  81. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    ?I love that song! I will pray in unison for restoration of your marriage. Our God is an awesome God!
    Thank you for your encouragement.

    Reply
  82. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    Beautiful!! Thank you for reminding me of that Pam. Sometimes the pain blurs my vision. But I know that He only wants the best for me. All I need to do is trust and surrender.

    Reply
  83. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    Thank you Marlene ?
    Thank you for this new comfort in the word!

    Reply
  84. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    Gosh Pat. This is beautiful just what I needed to hear right now.
    Thank you Jesus for your mercy and Grace.

    Reply
  85. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    You are in my prayers Liz. May our Lord soften your Husbands heart and place in him a desire to spend quality time with you. And may that time together bring you both peace and comfort.

    Reply
  86. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    Yay!! I love when our Abba moves. I will be praying for you and J. That the veil is removed from his eyes and that he fills his heart with the love of Jesus.

    Reply
  87. julianne Avatar
    julianne

    Hi everyone – I have been very interested in these posts after they appeared right after my friend texted me to say we needed to ‘shore up the walls and hang the gates’ – I’m not sure exactly how to go about it but have started fasting because I’m not sure what else to do – like Jenny I just want to lay my sword down (thankyou for your honest post Jenny and may God wrap you tightly in His comforting arms – whilst still wielding the sword on your behalf)! But I just wanted to share a verse from my morning devotional this morning:
    “Whoever has no rule over his own spirit
    Is like a city broken down, without walls.” Prov 25:28
    I’m wondering if God is asking me to deal with self-discipline?

    Reply
  88. Dawn Avatar
    Dawn

    Thank you for your prayers Carmen!!

    Reply
  89. Dawn Avatar
    Dawn

    Dineen,
    I just have to share this with you. You and I have been praying for my marriage to be restored on earth as it has been done in heaven. I opened my bible and went straight to this verse this morning. It’s not even one I ever remember seeing. Luke 4:20-21 GWT – Jesus closed the book and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. Everyone in the synagogue watched him closely. Then he said to them, “This passage came true today when you heard me read it.” I feel such a deep connection with this and what we have been praying. Just had to share. Have a great day!

    Reply
  90. Deborah Avatar
    Deborah

    Thank you for this amazing site and series. After the first part I felt God speak to me about fasting and praying and I was like sure God I’ll fast and pray…but then I felt more like for “us” to fast and pray so then he lead me to Ezra 8:21-23…”21There, by the Ahava Canal, I proclaimed a fast, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask him for a safe journey for us and our children, with all our possessions. 22I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to protect us from enemies on the road, because we had told the king. ‘The good hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him, but his great anger is against all who forsake him’ 23So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer” (Ezra 8:21-23, NIV). I feel God showed how Ezra and his community were all in the same situation (like the SUMites) and together they fasted and prayed and God answered their prayers. I’m stepping out on a limb here and trying to be obedient to share what God has shown me because this is hard for me. I don’t know where to go from here but fast and pray and if anyone wants to join in. Praying for you all and thank you for your personal stories, encouragement and testimonies.

    Reply
  91. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Could be, Julianne. Trust God to show you what He’s desires to do in you. 🙂

    Reply
  92. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    That’s awesome, Dawn! Powerful. Amen!

    Reply
  93. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Follow God’s leading, Deborah! That’s awesome that you’re hearing that.
    Holy Spirit, we praise You for the leading You are giving Deborah and ask that You impress this same leading on all the hearts you desire to pray and fast as well. Abba, we are Yours! Your SUMites! Help us make You proud. In Jesus’ name, amen!

    Reply
  94. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

    Pam,
    You are a writer aren’t you??? Girl, this is just a delightful discovery in Dineen’s post. Thanks for bringing it out. Sending you a BIG hug from Cali.. Lynn

    Reply
  95. Lynn Avatar
    Lynn

    Dineen, My Friend and Co-Traveler,
    Thank you for such insight into an obscure yet powerful book of the Old Testament. Your words and prayers have rattled the heavinlies for the people who are part of this community. Well done Girl. Well done. Love you.

    Reply
  96. Teresa T Avatar
    Teresa T

    I have felt called to fast and pray more regularly. I get so much out of an annual fast in January. I want more of that clarity, closeness and humility. I have started to fast daytime on Monday and Wednesday for the past few weeks. My husband finds it hard to believe that i can go more than 2 hours without eating. i am such a grazer. I also fast until lunch on Sundays. so my first meal is communion. There is such power in prayer and prayer and fasting.

    Reply
  97. Pam Osborne Avatar
    Pam Osborne

    Well if it worked for Eat, Pray, Love – why not Ask, Pray, Believe:)
    Sent from my iPhone

    Reply
  98. Deborah Avatar
    Deborah

    AMEN

    Reply
  99. Deborah Avatar
    Deborah

    That’s wonderful Teresa. Maybe I can join you in your fast and we can unite our prayers for our husbands, families and SUMites. (Matthew 18:19) “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.”

    Reply
  100. Dawn Avatar
    Dawn

    I’d love to join in a group fast for our hubbies to come to their senses and escape the trap of the devil who has taken them captive to do his will. 2 Timothy 2:26

    Reply
  101. Deborah Avatar
    Deborah

    YES! Let’s see if anyone else wants to join then set a day/s and make a list of prayers!!! God is so good!!!

    Reply
  102. Alaina Avatar
    Alaina

    I needed to read this Neh. Series so much biust shore up the walls in my marriage. My hubs and I have been together for 8 years & married for almost 6. It is so hard to Honor a man who is a believer but merely a fan not a follower. It’s so hard not to covet other women who have Godly men in their lives. My husband thinks I have gone overboard with Jesus! I am thankful for this! I don’t want to be any other way. I’m so troubled over his salvation. Letting go and letting God work is best. I’m not honoring God if I don’t honor my husband. I know I can’t be his Holy Spirit. I worry that his anger and disdain for my “walk” will taint my children’s hearts. I am struggling to choose joy over worry. To choose kindness over bitterness. I know what to do, I’m just so lost on how to make the joy stick. I am saved, baptized, and a true follower. His voice is very hard to hear over the scowls and hurtful words of my husband.
    I’m so thankful for all of these prayers, testimonies, lessons, and Holy Spirit words. I need this ministry more than anything.
    I’m praying for all the SUMites. You are Loved & Worthy! Jeremiah 29:11

    Reply
  103. Carmen M Avatar
    Carmen M

    I too have been led to fast. I started yesterday and I am fasting up,until the first breakfast at the women’s retreats his weekend. I too feel more clarity when I fast and pray. I would love to join in with my fellow SUMmites. Praises to the king.

    Reply
  104. Deborah Avatar
    Deborah

    YES! Let’s see if anyone else would like to join and then make a list of our prayers. God is so good!

    Reply
  105. Deborah Avatar
    Deborah

    sorry didn’t show first post…Does anyone else have trouble posting…I’m om AOL and wonder if thats why.

    Reply
  106. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    No, it’s Typepad, Deborah. Not sure why there are issues at times and why suddenly multiple comments will go to the spam queue. They’re working on this from what I understand.
    Love that many of you are being called to fast and are reaching out to plan this. If you plan something specific coming up let me know and we can let readers know on Facebook and maybe here on the blog too. I’ve been fasting more recently myself which is not my norm but clearly from the Spirit. God is moving!

    Reply
  107. Sarah Beth Avatar
    Sarah Beth

    I’d like to join the Sunday morning fast too! I’ll be praying for your husband’s and your spiritual strength and I would appreciate it if y’all would do the same for me if you feel led to do so. So glad to be part of this community.

    Reply
  108. Jody J Avatar
    Jody J

    I’ve been gone from this group for a few months, but I find my way back. Reading above about the song, “Restore” by Chris August…well as some of you know, my husband was granted a divorce in late April. Three days later, I moved to Colorado while he remains in Kansas. Before the divorce, I know I heard God tell me that He will save my marriage…restore my husband and me…and give me rest. so much has happened, but God has been so good to provide for my every need…a great job, a beautiful place to find healing, a wonderful church, and few faithful friends. I’ve failed nearly every day, especially allowing someone from my past to gain access to that gullible side of me. But quickly, God is showing me that that is just a diversion…and a fatal one. I bought this lovely card talking about how God is there when we need him. I bought it a month ago, and told God that I would not mail it until I hear from my husband (can’t call him ex). I know he had my phone blocked, but one night God was dealing with me about how I failed to show my husband unconditional love (one thing we go over and over on). I texted it to him knowing he would never see it, but putting it out in the universe. I ended it with May God bless and keep you. He quickly responded, (And you also.) Praise the Lord He made a way for that message to get through. So Monday, I mailed that card to my husband that I bought so long ago…it just wouldn’t let me leave it on the counter! 🙂 Well, last night he emailed me thanking me for the nice card. Telling me it is over for him but he hopes I’m doing well and that God is with me. I responded with a loving message. This morning, I get another message from him saying he emailed me yesterday about the card (apparently he didn’t get my response last night). Then, the song “Restore” came on the radio…it’s not played very often. So I asked the Holy Spirit to give me words, and I sent the message again. He responded in kind, sent me photos of the new calves that were born on the farm yesterday, and told me he is taking another woman to our vacation spot for the upcoming Holiday weekend. I asked him to meet me there instead, and he said “No way…we are through.” I crumbled inside and had to leave work to go home and cry and pray and listen for God. I am hurt, yes, but realizing that I’ve let go of God’s promise, and there is so much more to be done. In a phone call, my husband admitted that he loves me and misses me and thinks of me every day. So through the tears and all the conflicting messages, I hold on to the hope that God will fulfill His promise soon, despite what the circumstances are. So few even understand why I’m doing this, but I have an eternal goal! Hold on SUMITES…Restoration is coming! Love you all and have so missed you!

    Reply
  109. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Thank you, my precious BFF. Love you too. 🙂

    Reply
  110. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Hi Alaina! I know what you mean, my friend. I was in that place a couple years back and I woke up with these words on my lips, “Lord, restore the joy of Your salvation to me.” I couldn’t tell you where I’d read that before nor did I know that Scripture reference, so I looked it up. Sure enough there it was in Psalm 51:12:
    “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.”
    Notice it says, “your” and not my, Alaina. I can’t fully explain why but I believe it is worded this way specifically so that we know that salvation comes completely from God and has nothing to do with our efforts. Thus we can have His joy too! The joy of the Lord is our strength! (Neh. 8:10)
    Walk in His joy, my friend. Ask for it over and over again. There is great strength there and you will find peace too. Hugging you!

    Reply
  111. Deborah Avatar
    Deborah

    My heart is hurting with you Jody. I pray that God will pour his love out on you and you will feel his loving arms around you holding you so tight. I pray he gives you strength and wisdom in this difficult time and that you can clearly hear Him.

    Reply
  112. Deborah Avatar
    Deborah

    I am planning on fasting and praying this Monday for those who would like to join in. I will be praying for my husband and your husbands, my family and your families and for us to hear and be obedient to God. Please let me know if you are joining in and your prayer requests so we can be united in our prayers.

    Reply
  113. Dineen Miller Avatar
    Dineen Miller

    Oh, Jody, my heart is aching and cheering for you all at once! My friend, you are never far from my thoughts and frequently in my prayers. I’m so glad you dropped in for a visit.
    Abba, I ask for a fresh anointing over Jody, of strength, of conviction, and of perseverance. Empower her, Holy Spirit with Your constant flow and presence. Give her strength and courage that even shocks her. Lord Jesus, You are the Great Healer. Bring Your healing to Jody, to her husband and to their marriage. Great is Your faithfulness, Lord! We love you! Amen!

    Reply
  114. Jody J Avatar
    Jody J

    I am all in and thank you all so very much. We are a blessed community of true believers! Love all of you!

    Reply
  115. Teresa T Avatar
    Teresa T

    Deborah and Dawn, we are on!

    Reply
  116. Teresa T Avatar
    Teresa T

    Yes. I am in. I pray for my husband and I keep a list of other SUMmite loved ones. I pray for Lynn and Dineen’s ministry. And that my congregation grow in wisdom, knowledge, love and service.

    Reply
  117. Deborah Avatar
    Deborah

    OK Teresa, Dawn, Jody and anyone else we are on for Monday! Dear Lord Jesus please prepare our hearts as we fast and pray on Monday. Please speak to us and Holy Spirit please guide our prayers according to the will of God. We love you and thank you for this wonderful site that encourages and gives us hope in our difficult situations. Amen

    Reply
  118. Gillian Avatar
    Gillian

    Count me in too!
    Fasting for wisdom, for hubby and for me, that I would heard God’s direction clearly and follow! And grace to let go of frustrations and be more loving…

    Reply
  119. Liz Avatar
    Liz

    Carrie, this is old so you might not see it but I just saw your comment…the timing in our marriages is so weird…my husband left about a year and a half ago, and January of this year he told me for the 3rd time he wanted a divorce, and actually filed for it in May. So strange…I too have been praying for restoration and believing to see the promise fulfilled. I’ll be praying for you and your marriage as well.

    Reply
  120. Deborah Avatar
    Deborah

    Yeah Gillian! Two days ago my husband said he doesn’t think our marriage is working and that we are two different people and that he thinks we should end it. Please pray for me and God’s will to be done.

    Reply
  121. Kristin Avatar
    Kristin

    Carmen,
    I lift you up in my prayers. I’ve been in a spiritual stand for my marriage now for the last 14 months. In addition to this amazing community of SUMites, there is also an online ministry specifically for standers (those people who are standing in the gap for their spouses and the restoration of their marriages). Google “Rejoice Marriage Ministries”! There are daily devotionals and resources for those whose spouses have become ‘prodigal sons’.
    Draw close to the Lord and He will draw close to you. God is faithful and my prayer for you is that you will be obedient to his leading. Trust Him that He has a far greater purpose in all of your pain.
    Love, hugs, and prayers to you. God does heal hurting marriages!

    Reply
  122. Sarah Beth Avatar
    Sarah Beth

    Jody, I hurt for you. I also have gotten a lot of conflicting and confusing comments from my husband lately. One day he says he cares about me but doesn’t love me and a few days later I wake up to him hugging me saying he loves me so much. That’s just one example. Here are some verse that have really helped me:
    Psalm 71:3 Be to me for a rock – a habitation, To go in continually, Thou hast given command to save me, For my rock and my bulwark art Thou.
    Psalm 61:2 From the end of the earth I will cry to You, When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
    God is our ROCK! He is constant, never changing, and always there for us. He keeps His promises and always loves His children, no matter how many times we screw up. We are never alone.
    “On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand.”
    Praying for you Jodi, and your husband. (I won’t say ex.)

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