PUBLISHER'S DESCRIPTION:

God tells us to love our enemies. But what about loving and honoring a husband who chooses to walk away from his family, setting up residence in a prison of addiction? Seldom is there a faith with the tenacity that the author displayed during her twenty-two years of praying, enduring tremendous trials and sorrow.

"I will honor my vow, no matter what," were words spoken by this young bride, believing in the promise of new life and vows spoken. The "no matter what" took this family on such a seemingly discouraging journey that even Christian family and friends believed restoration was impossible. Joy learned to place her complete hope in Christ alone, believing that God's mercy and grace is sufficient to reach even the darkest and most hardened heart - including her own.A beautiful, transparent portrait of redemption as marriage is viewed as a living, breathing example of Christ and His bride. Readers will be encouraged and equipped to persevere through deep marital waters.

...

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

PART ONE: giving your heart away
marriage - divinely designed by God
do you trust me?
just who's bride am I?
he's the problem!
Proverbs 31 woman...in your dreams
a broken vessel
God didn't walk out the door
across the atlantic - refreshing my soul
how long, oh lord?
battle on my knees
plan your wedding!
the darkest hours, just before dawn
forgiveness and restoration
day of redemption

PART TWO: I will repay your for the years the locusts ate away Joel 2:25
no longer afraid?
the children speak
my beloved's journey

PART THREE: lessons learned along the way
your maker is your husband
under mercy - choosing to forgive
it wasn't supposed to be like this
God loves me
the promises are for me too
guard your heart
keeping your marriage private
Lord, send me!
the word of God

PART FOUR: walking it out: examining your own heart personal study

...