Women Living Well Blog

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Welcome New Readers

In the past day or two, there's been rumblings of anger from some who oppose the Summer Marriage Challenge. First, something popped up on youtube, then on twitter, then on a blog post (that received over 200 comments from women - most were displeased) and on blogfrog. As news spread about this challenge, some women were displeased that other women would actually pursue such a challenge.

I have seen my visitor numbers sky rocket as a result of this controversy and I know some of these women are reading this post so "welcome to Women Living Well!". I am honestly happy that you are here even if you are not pleased with me!!! I'm ok with that! If we were meeting in person, I'd invite you to sit at my kitchen table and have a glass of lemonade and chat but alas, we are in blogland.

There are so many things that have been twisted over cyberspace that I could not possibly attempt to untwist them. So, instead let's go straight to the root of the problem.

The foundational issue is this. Do you believe there is a God? Do you believe that we can know God personally? Do you believe that the Bible is the Word of God?

How you answer those three fundamental questions, will affect how you see everything else on my blog, facebook, twitter, youtube etc.. My answer to those three questions are yes.

1. I believe that the Bible is God's inspired, infallible, and inerrant Word and is the sole written revelation that rules the faith and practice for all Christians and alone can bind the conscience. I believe that God has preserved His Word and that by His power it has been kept from being lost, destroyed, or diluted with error (2 Timothy 3:16; Psalm 119:89; 1 Peter 1:23, 25).

2. I believe in one God, Creator of all things, perfect in love and holiness, Who exists as three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14;1 Peter 1:2).

3. I believe that Jesus Christ is fully God and entered human form by the miracle of the Virgin Birth, that He lived a sinless life, and that He died for our sins. Christ is the only mediator through whose work we are redeemed. I believe that He rose again on the third day and now sits at the right hand of God as our Advocate (Matthew 1:18-25; John 1:1, 14, 3:16; 1 Corinthians 15:3-7; 1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 1:3; 1 John 2:1).

The title of my blog is Women Living Well. Jesus said in John 4:13 "Everyone who drinks this water will be thristy again (he was referring to physical water in a well), but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."

I believe that when a woman repents of her sin, believes in Jesus and pursues a personal relationship with God by drinking from the living well (that is God's word) she will live well! Hence, the name of the blog - - Women Living Well!

So God's word is my authority and the principles I encourage on this site flow from the Bible and my personal relationship with Jesus. If you are uncomfortable with the principles that are taught on Women Living Well then your issue is not with me. It's with God.

If you are unsure what the Bible says or just know tid bits, I would encourage you to open a Bible and begin to read. Here's an overview of the Bible and where to start. I encourage you to stick around for a while and lurk and see what it's all about. If you are still angry with me - I will not be debating with you. There are many blogs out there that support your view. This blog is a safe haven for those who believe the Bible. Thank you for stopping by and I hope you will come again!

Walk with the King!

Labels: Pleasing God

76 Comments:

Unknown said...: WEll shoot I must have missed all the hullabaloo.. good grief why on earth would they have an issue with a marriage challenge. Seems to me people would be interested in LOWERING the divorce rate however possible. Nice to meet ya, my gf told me about your blog and I have your button on my page. Except I don't think they want to come at me for it.. I bite back. I have mastered the art of be angry and sin not.. umm yeah..and I usually do it in vlog form.; June 10, 2010 at 11:55 PM
kimmy said...: You have done a great job respectfully and kindly reponding to your critics and you have proven to be a woman of integrity in this instance:) You are so right their issue is with God and His word not you. I hope some of the critics who were so quick to judge will continue to read and see that serving your family and serving God is a noble and honorable way to lve.; June 10, 2010 at 11:58 PM
T said...: What a beautiful way to handle disagreement, Courtney! Thank you for boldly - yet loving - sharing the truth of God's word even when people don't like it.; June 11, 2010 at 12:03 AM
jen said...: Thank you for being an example of unconditional love. I'm praying for your new visitors and hope that God will use this opportunity to draw women to Him! To God be the glory. Love you so much, Jen; June 11, 2010 at 12:09 AM
Lisa said...: I can totally see how this challenge would get some women riled up...if you're not submitted to the Lord. I missed the controversy, but I'm so glad you're not backing down. You're handling this with grace and humility.; June 11, 2010 at 12:13 AM
Rebecca.Alburn said...: I Peter 3:15-17
"Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. 'Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.' But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil."; June 11, 2010 at 12:21 AM
Home's Where My Heart Is said...: Yikes! I can't believe some people would be put off by this. I am a new reader, and I am so impressed by the grace you applied in responding to those who had negative feedback. I can't imagine what on earth could be offensive about a marriage challenge. Oh well, live and let live.

Many blessings,
Erin

http://homeswheremyheartis.blogspot.com; June 11, 2010 at 12:22 AM
Rebecca.Alburn said...: 1 Chronicles 16:11
"Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always."; June 11, 2010 at 12:41 AM
Unknown said...: http://singedwingangel.blogspot.com/2010/06/friday-confessional-completing-him.html

this is for you Courtney hun..; June 11, 2010 at 1:03 AM
Karen said...: I am a new reader.
I really appreciate this challenge and am excited to see God's hand more in my marriage. :); June 11, 2010 at 6:16 AM
livinginbetween said...: Courtney, I saw the stink before I watched the video (simply because I rarely ever watch vlogs). I'm sorry for the criticism you've endured -- not that people have disagreed, but how they've done it. Good for you in responding with grace.; June 11, 2010 at 6:29 AM
Daina said...: Thank you Courtney for your faithfulness and encouragement! I am very excited about our summer challenge. Satan is working so hard to destroy families! We need to follow God's ways not the world's ways to make our marriages stronger. Thank you so much,keep up the great work for Him!; June 11, 2010 at 7:23 AM
Tara said...: I am a new reader too (new as in before this came up though) and I am doing the challenge! I rarely comment - but I felt compelled to here. The only way this challenge would make sense is if Jesus is your Savior. Because the world certainly does NOT teach us that this is the thing to do!

My heart breaks for others whose marriages around me are falling apart, and they either try to do nothing to save them, or just do not know what to do. My own marriage, one year ago, was also on the brink of falling apart. It was dead for all intents and purposes - but by the Grace of God it has been restored!

I look forward to this challenge and thank you Courtney!; June 11, 2010 at 7:43 AM
Unknown said...: Perfection.

:); June 11, 2010 at 7:46 AM
Unknown said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; June 11, 2010 at 7:46 AM
Suzanne said...: Thank you for responding with such love! I can understand non-Christian women being put off by the challenge--it really is a foreign concept in today's society:-) But , I must believe you have struck a chord with some and God will use you to change hearts. I can't think of a more wonderful challenge to focus on--my husband who is my best friend and I love to pieces!; June 11, 2010 at 8:00 AM
Jess said...: I think you're AWESOME! And, I was actually bummed that being an unmarried gal, I couldn't participate. I think it'd be awesome! Maybe some summer ;-); June 11, 2010 at 8:00 AM
The Nunnallys said...: I must be so naive. I had no idea people sat around trying to find things to bash. I mean really do you have nothing better to do? If they don't like what is being said why even bother coming to your site? Every time I come I feel so encouraged by your words & the truth you speak from God's word. I Love it! Thank you for supporting strong Christ centered marriages. And I can't wait to be apart of each challenge every week.

With Christ centered marriages being one of satan's biggest threats no wonder this is getting so much yuck started up.; June 11, 2010 at 8:17 AM
Unknown said...: I am total shock that ANY one would be so upset about this. Its also amazing how many churches do not teach this to our women. Courtney you are doing what GOD says to do and no need to apologizes for it. Doing what God tells us to do is how to live for Christ not picking and choosing what fits us.

I will have to say that after reading this ... After reading this message it really upset me that anyone could be upset about this challenge. IF ALL marriages would have "GOD" centered instead of "I" centered their would be less divorce.

This scripture really stood out for me this morning in my quite time Romans 8:6 says "For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace"

We have to keep our minds set on GOD not ourselves!

We LOVE you Courtney keep doing Gods work!!

Serving with Joy!; June 11, 2010 at 8:22 AM
Unknown said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; June 11, 2010 at 8:24 AM
Tammy_Skipper said...: I am only dipping my toes into the blogosphere, but I had to say what a blessing to see your response here to whatever you have been hearing from others. When I saw your challenge I knew it was the perfect devotional/spiritual focus I needed for summer as my kids will be at their grandparents for several weeks. When I am offended/attacked I am so quick to argue 'my side' especially when I see it as 'right' in God's eyes. What you have modeled for us here is that every trial is an opportunity to share the truth of Jesus Christ's life, death and resurrection. Thank you for being a mentor to me, a total stranger but sister in Christ. ((HUGS)); June 11, 2010 at 8:27 AM
Katie said...: Courtney, you are handling your critics with incredible grace! I read the blog post with the 200 responses (all mostly negative) and it seems that many of them agree that the challenges you set forth seem like they'd be good if they "Went both ways", if I were brave enough to post I would have suggested they watch Andy Stanley's "I Marriage" series where he explains that marriage is a covenant not a contract of "I will only if you will", but they likely wouldn't quite understand that concept either, being that many aren't Christians and they're not coming from a place where this type of thought process makes sense (I know, I've been where they are before too). I personally am so grateful for your blog and for this challenge, and I am excited to see how God uses it to change our marriages!; June 11, 2010 at 8:29 AM
Amy said...: Rock on, sister. Rock on! We do not expect the world to get it, but Christians should. I read Hebrews 10:24 this morning and how appropriate: "Let us think about each other and help each other to show love and do good deeds." Let me say again, rock on!
www.graceunceasing.com; June 11, 2010 at 8:32 AM
Beth West www.northernskyart.wordpress.com said...: You answered here very well.

Our culture deeply indoctrinates young people to stand AGAINST Biblical teachings. I used to be an atheist/agnostic before the Father drew me to Him. I was taught that all things Biblical are bad and oppressive. We are truly living in the days when good is taught as evil and evil is taught as good.

As to the appalling manners some display, they have been taught that too from hours of TV, movies and music as well as time spent with corrupt companions.

When the LORD's truth shines over people living in darkness, it is uncomfortable! But keep on shining Courtney. Never stop. Some will be drawn to Him in spite of themselves as I was. I am so grateful and blessed that when I lived in darkness, I had believing friends who weren't afraid to risk my condemnation and share His love with me.; June 11, 2010 at 8:33 AM
sjs said...: Thank you for standing up.:) I wanted to do the challenge but my husband is home from Iraq for two weeks and I wanted to spend as much time with him that I can.:) He works over there with kbr. He goes back on Monday. I read your blog when I can and it is always an encouragement. Thank you!!! God will bless you.:) You are right they aren't angry with you but at God. Thank you again for the blessing you are to so many ladies.
Sharon:); June 11, 2010 at 8:47 AM
Amy @ Keep'n The SunnySide said...: Courtney, I've been a follower for a couple months. I have your blog link on my blog.. and I know that some of my followers have scooted on over to your blog to check it out. I find your blog to be a LOVELY place to visit. I know that you are going to stay true to yourself, and not let these comments sway you. Unfortunately there are so many out there just waiting for the opportunity to pounce. Praying for these people is the only solution. No amount of words are going to change their preconceived notions. I'm thankful to YOU for bringing us great video's, lots of inspiration, and most importantly reminding us how much GOD loves us. Thank you!; June 11, 2010 at 8:51 AM
S Club Mama said...: I commented on the other blog post that got so many comments. Usually she's a great blogger but I was really disappointed. I think most of the women who were sarcastic or rude about this, unfortunately, don't know the word of God and therefore how He intended marriage to be.

Although I'm not partaking in your challenge myself really, I have been trying to be a better wife. It seems you're lined up right alongside Dr. Laura's "The Proper Care and Feeding of Husbands" which is a book I've just finished and loved. It made me open my eyes to how I need to be with my husband.

I had someone reply to my comment that this challenge (specifically women like you) set us back generations and this type of thinking is so antiquated. I replied that is that a bad thing? to set us back to generations when the divorce rate was lower? when families weren't just strangers sharing living spaces?

I think this is great.; June 11, 2010 at 8:54 AM
Courtney (Women Living Well) said...: Wow! I am so blessed by all of your kind and encouraging words! I LOVE MY READERS!~ I really really do. I love you guys so much and pray for you all daily! I pray that God will bless your marriages, your children, your homes and your endeavors in life and that you would be lights shining in the darkness! Remain in his love, peace and joy!

Keep Walking with the King!
Courtney; June 11, 2010 at 9:03 AM
Kristi Stephens said...: Well done, Courtney - may God's name be lifted up!; June 11, 2010 at 9:13 AM
Scary Mommy said...: I can say that I don't see eye to eye with you-- at all-- but your way of dealing with this explosion was respectable, classy and true to who you are. I never meant to offend you, and am relieved to see that I didn't. Best of luck to you.; June 11, 2010 at 9:24 AM
Kristen said...: Just wanted to send you some encouragement and say I love your blog and it has helped me and encouraged me so much in my marriage! Matthew 5:11-12; June 11, 2010 at 9:25 AM
Unknown said...: I read one of the blog post that was bashing your site and it made my stomach turn. The lack of respect some people have for other peoples beliefs makes me sick. I think you have handled this situation wonderfully. You are definitely being the bigger person here, and showing the love of Jesus. The challenge video was awesome and I believe all marriages would benefit from it. Thank you for what you do!; June 11, 2010 at 9:58 AM
Sherry @ Lamp Unto My Feet said...: Thank you for sharing your heart and not being all caught up in those that would try to put you down. I have followed you for months and I have only found that you follow after God and what the Bible teaches. Praying that God will speak to many during this! :D

Have a blessed day!; June 11, 2010 at 9:58 AM
Michelle' said...: What a beautiful witnessing invitation and a beautiful and sentimental response. I truly pray someone out there comes to know the Lord through all of this - wouldn't that just be amazing :o) I am seeing things in my marriage that is truly miraculous only since I have sought what God truly expects from me as a child of God and as a Godly wife. Separated for a year and one month after my husband walked away with not so much as a note and with no hopes of a chance of reconciling, we are now a family once again with our 5 children and will be married 16 years in Sept. And no affairs on either part - plain and simple, we just did not conform to our roles as husband and wife as God had laid out. I only admired, respected and submitted when I felt my needs were met first (which were not too often since his were not being met) - shame on me. I have since learned (and am still learning with an eager heart) that God has this beautiful plan and it's the best plan and it works 100%. It started on this blogsite - Woman Living Well - so please respect this blog for those of us whose lives have been so greatly enriched! Thank you Courtney for doing God's work - I can not say this enough!; June 11, 2010 at 10:04 AM
Anonymous said...: I love hearing God's love and grace through you. Thank you for being a willing vessel.; June 11, 2010 at 10:14 AM
Becca said...: I haven't read any of the other postings or heard the muck that is getting stirred up, but can I point out just how awful the sin of the world can be!! Courtney, keep walking with the Lord and know that what you're doing is definitely God's will. It's clear that the devil doesn't like what's about to happen because he knows that marriages are going to change... for the better! It's going to be tough for some, but the rewards will be an even stronger Christian marriage.

Eve was created by God from Adam to be his helpmate. Focus on that ladies as we dive in to this challenge!!; June 11, 2010 at 10:17 AM
The Waites Family said...: Courtney, I was just reading this morning from 1 Peter 1:3-9 about having to suffer grief in all kinds of trials so that your faith may be proved genuine and will give praise and glory to God! You, my friend, have shown this in blogworld this morning. I thank God for you and for your ministry!; June 11, 2010 at 10:40 AM
Jen at Soulfull Cafe said...: May this be a reminder that we all need to pray more. "In this world, you will have trouble..." (John 16:33). I am just completely shocked and saddened by the hate literature regarding this challenge. But why should I be surprised? Have a forgotten that "you will be hated by all for my name's sake" ? Apparently I have. Apparently, I have forgotten that people (around the world) hate Courtney. May this be a reminder to pray more for Courtney as we journey together to serve God. And see! - Look at the attention God is getting as a result of this? He is getting the glory! Praise Him!
I am happy to stand with you Courtney, as you face this persecution. You are not alone.; June 11, 2010 at 10:46 AM
KatBouska said...: Courtney you handled this beautifully. I do not agree with some of your teachings, but I did not appreciate some of the slanderous remarks that were said about you.

Ironically enough I am a Christian. I do believe. I sometimes struggle with being consistent in my walk, but the faith is there.

My problem with this challenge is not with God or how I'm supposed to serve Him.

My issue with this challenge is not with the idea of strengthening my marriage and living happily with my husband.

My issue with this challenge is with the idea that I must "become what my husband needs". I feel this is insinuating that I am not already what my husband needs. We chose each other.

Can I improve myself and my faith? Of course. Can I take time to put my marriage first and strengthen our relationship? Absolutely.

Do I need to "become" something else in order to do that? I don't think so.

Do I need to submit and bend at my husband's will? I think he would find that insulting. I certainly do.

While you undoubtedly pulled in some participants from the extra traffic you received, I can't help but wonder how many struggling Christians like myself turned away from this challenge feeling discouraged due to the extreme submission you seem to encourage. I am not my husband's pet.

I wish you the best and I hope your participants get everything out of your challenge that they hoped to...I'll continue to seek encouragement elsewhere.; June 11, 2010 at 10:49 AM
Thou Art Jules said...: There was a time not so long ago when I would've balked at this idea. Today I cherish it!

Sometimes my children argue. When I speak to one of them they want to know why I'm not speaking to the other (when I haven't had time to speak to the other!) I have to remind them that they need to deal with their issues and not their siblings issue. They are handled separately. You cannot fix someone else. You can only fix yourself.

Today I make the choice to work on me and in the course of that I hope it benefits those I love. I want to be a better wife and mother. I don't apologize for that and I know what it's like to look back at my past deeds and feel guilty for being so selfish!

If my husband has issues or things he needs to deal with, then Lord willing, he will. But, I cannot fix them for him and will love him the way God gave him to me. His "flaws" cannot negate my own desire to do my best for my marriage.; June 11, 2010 at 11:03 AM
Katherine said...: Hi Courtney,

I just want to let you know that I think you do an awesome job! I have been following your blog over the past year & find you to be a true inspiration. Just keep doing what you are doing. Job Well Done! :) PS- I'm fairly new to blogging but here is my link: www.somegoodideas.net

Blessings!; June 11, 2010 at 11:58 AM
Anonymous said...: Hi Courtney!
I am a brand new reader, just found your blog yesterday actually! I had no idea about the Marriage Challenge or any of the controversy going on. I am sorry you are recieving some criticism, and hopefully now people will understand that they have a choice as to what blogs to read, so they should choose accordingly:) I think the Marriage Challenge is great and I am excited to take it on!! I watched your Rachel Ray appearance, and when you mentioned that you have a college degree but your heart was really in being a good wife, I got teary because I feel the same way! It's so nice to know that there are other women out there who say, "Hey, I am college educated- I could have a career, I'm not being pushed into this, but it is what I WANT and it works for us." Amen! Thank you for doing this and spreading the Word!! In Him, Lisa~; June 11, 2010 at 12:14 PM
Kris said...: Finding your blog was perfect timing. For in my marriage I am or was forgetting the Lord. I was certain that one day I would need to leave. Then, poof!, God was there. He showed me the way to your challenge. Each and every day I come here to read and be refreshed.

Thank you and praise God!

Many blessings,
KP; June 11, 2010 at 12:17 PM
Karen said...: Courtney, you are the kind of woman that when you wake up in the morning, Satan groans with dread...and says "SHE's UP! Get to work people, we must STOP HER! "

You are a true blessing to so many. I am not surprised at all that this caused controversy, usually anything really worthwhile does! So at least you know you are on the right track to leading women to transform their lives and their marriages!!! Way to go girl!!! Keep it up and do not be discouraged!!!; June 11, 2010 at 1:04 PM
Angie said...: I guess I am confused? I didn't hear or see any reaction to your mission~ helping making our marriage better and more God centered. I even plugged your challenge on my blog and how excited I am to start. I am so sorry you had to endure such great controversy. With God on your side your reaction is a testimony as to how Good God is!; June 11, 2010 at 1:10 PM
Lizzy said...: Oh Courtney--what a refreshing blessing you are! I love your commitment to Jesus and His Word, your humility, honesty--and the amazingly gracious way you keep God's Truth as the focus! You inspire me, humble me, challenge me with each entry.
I pray you will be blessed today for your faithfulness.
Lizzy; June 11, 2010 at 1:20 PM
~JoAnn~ said...: Courtney~ So sorry to hear that you are having problems. I think some women just don't get it and there in lies the problem. I think the challenge is wonderful and I even spoke about it and you on my blog telling people to come visit. But as with everything when you deal with people who aren't christian they just don't understand and take things wrong.
Blessings,Joann; June 11, 2010 at 1:21 PM
Milk and Honey Mommy said...: Courtney,

I haven't read through all of the comments here yet, but I want to thank you for your blog as well as for the challenge. I have been following you for the past two months, check you daily, and also have a link on my blog to yours. Keep up the good work because He is depending on you to continue spreading His word. Plus, you just make me smile.; June 11, 2010 at 1:26 PM
Lisa V. said...: Woo-hoo!

Courtney, you are the real deal. And I LOVE you for it. Standing up for who you are and what you believe in. It takes courage and strength. I'm pretty darn proud that you represent a whole lot of christian women. God bless you and your family. Keep doing what you do and may He always be your heart, soul and mind.; June 11, 2010 at 1:49 PM
alexis said...: Courtney,
I am one of the women who watched your video at the other woman's blog, and I can honestly (and without malice) say that I was a little put off by the challenge. I admire the willingness to make marriage work, because I value my marriage more than anything in this life (other than my relationship with God).

However, I don't subscribe to the notion that I need to conform to the will of my husband in order to be a good wife. I am a good wife because I CHOOSE to love him, take care of him, bear his children, support him in his righteous decisions, and I do all of this without having to compromise my own will. My will is his will because I love him. Not because I submit to him.

I very much admire your faith, and even more your generosity in this response to your critics. I'm not sure I could have been so Christlike. I just very much disagree with the idea of needing to change ourselves to be the wife our husband needs. Change can only be permanent when it comes from a need that is internal. In other words, if WE see something broken within ourselves, WE must fix it. Not for someone else, but for ourselves.

And one other thing, which I don't know how to say without sounding rude, but I assure you this is coming from a loving place: it is very difficult to call myself Christian (even though I am, very much so) when women (such as certain commenters on the other blog) insinuate that it would be impossible to understand this challenge if you aren't Christian. This is contrary to the mission of Christ, which was to spread his Gospel to all men. This challenge, the way I see it, is about how better to love our husbands and make our marriages successful. Even women who are not Christian care about their marriages, and many comments on the other blog by so-called Christians made it sound as though only people who believe in God want to have good marriages. And this is decidedly untrue.

Again, thank you for your thoughts and graciousness. I have learned very much from you today.; June 11, 2010 at 2:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Good for you for posting this! I don't agree with you on some major things scripturally but I admire you for your integrity and willingness to tackle this ministry. I'm sorry you have to be the target of so much criticism and anger over something that is so biblically obvious, no matter where you stand on the theology spectrum. I pray too that through this controversy some women's eyes may be opened to the truth. Stay strong and may YHWH bless you and this work. :); June 11, 2010 at 2:08 PM
Rebecca said...: Great post! When you're doing the Lord's will, you can expect opposition. Keep up the good work!; June 11, 2010 at 3:15 PM
Unknown said...: You're awesome Courtney! Thanks for letting your light shine!; June 11, 2010 at 4:34 PM
Amy said...: This blog is not for everyone, the things Courtney teaches, are not for everyone. They are available to you if you choose to listen and gain from Courtney's teachings. I pray that every person who comes across this blog is touched by Courtney's ministry and desire to touch the lives of all women who choose to seek ye first the kingdom of God..All parts of the kingdom! Including servanthood! God Bless You Courtney, I am following your blog and also participating in the challenge. Looking forward to the growth and blessings that will come forth form it.
Love from FL
xo; June 11, 2010 at 4:49 PM
Shonda said...: I can't believe people would oppose a marriage challenge. There is definitely an evil source out there that is not interested in improving marriages. Let's be strong in the Lord!; June 11, 2010 at 5:09 PM
TessaShelby said...: Courtney, I just could not help but get on the other blogs and read some of the things women are saying about the Summer Marriage challenge. I had to fight everything in me not to post on these blogs trying to prove them wrong... My husband says I am acting like a Mike Tyson, jumping for a fight... Typing this now I have to fight to not take their stab at your challenge for wives personal. As a young wife and mother I find it hard sometimes not to let the old me stand out and battle the world alone. As I submit to God first and foremost I am learning that God will take care of what I cannot. I did learn from reading all the negative remarks on what kind of women to warn my son of as he grows in the knowledge of Christ. Thank you for sharing your faith and standing strong. Phili. 4:13; June 11, 2010 at 5:24 PM
Theresa said...: I just found your blog yesterday and I LOVE that I get to meet the core of your heart today! I think your marriage challenge is fantastic! If you're not making people uncomfortable, you must not be doing something right ;)
Keep on keeping on, sister!; June 11, 2010 at 6:13 PM
Julianne said...: I am with all these other ladies that are shocked that people would have a problem with trying to better our marriages, but unfortunately these are the days we live in. reasonI'll be married to my high school sweetheart 13 years on August 9th and the ONLY we have been married this long is by following the Lord's blueprint for marriage. You have done a remarkable job in showing grace and love to ungracious and unlovely people. What a great example you are being!
Julianne :); June 11, 2010 at 6:25 PM
Kari said...: I have just found you... and it wasn't from the "controversy"! So I am pleasantly oblivious to it! So all I can do is comment on what you wrote about.... and my answer to your three questions is a resounding YES!!! Too. So I am glad to have found a blogger that isn't afraid to share her belief. Thank you.; June 11, 2010 at 7:01 PM
CoconutPalmDesigns said...: Hi Courtney,

Like many others, I was led to your blog by seeing something in one place that led to a second place, etc.

I'm not married and haven't watched your video but I scanned some of the comments in the various places and I just wanted to say kudos to you for putting your thoughts and feelings out there and for not letting the negativity get you down.

Cheers :-)
- Rainforest Mommy; June 11, 2010 at 7:29 PM
Lauren said...: You have a standing ovation from me right now!!!!!!! Press on sister!!!! You are AMAZING!!! :); June 11, 2010 at 7:51 PM
Queen Los said...: I almost ruined my marraige by not obeying Gods word and submitting to my husband... i am so glad you are writing this... as any other "hard" thing you will find controversary but you stand strong cus you are making such a difference in womens lives! Thanks for what you do you are truly a blessing to women!; June 11, 2010 at 9:27 PM
Kristi said...: Courtney, I think the challenge is wonderful. I learned about it through My Grace blog and I think we should all be challenged in this area! The ones that oppose it are the ones that like being a "today's woman" and does not want to make waves in their comfort zone. :D Just saying....

I think you have a great blog. Keep up the good work!

~Kristi; June 11, 2010 at 10:49 PM
Kelly said...: I read about the marriage challenge the other day and thought it was a great idea, but I didn't think I was up for it. Now, after reading this last post, I'm signing up! The world needs more Christian leaders like you Courtney. Thank you for being such a great example!; June 11, 2010 at 11:01 PM
Tania said...: Courtney you are an inspiration to many others as well as myself, and I admire the way you have handled this situation.

I just wanted to let you know that I am fairly new to your blog and have only been visiting here about a month. I have read and re read some/most of your posts,and watched and re watched your videos.

I have been with my partner in life for 19 years and the past few months we have grown so close together that it feels like a dream. I am disappointed in myself to have been led down the 'other' path for so many years.

I am now pleased to inform you that my husband is the most happiest, contented man because of the new me and by putting into practice the knowledge that I have learned. He says his life is so much better and therefore so is mine. This really WORKS!!

I look forward to reading and learning more from your warm welcoming blog.; June 12, 2010 at 6:08 AM
Unknown said...: What a great response : )
I hope your challenge goes well and it is a benefit to your marriage. God bless.; June 12, 2010 at 12:41 PM
tiarastantrums said...: I watched your vlog somewhere else . . . came here to take a peek around . . watched all your other vlogs and your RR special . . . read some of your other posts . . .

I find you graceful and full of God's blessings . . . truly at peace with who you are . . . walking a wonderful path with Christ in your life.

While I don't think that I am anywhere near where you are in life . . . I commend you for the manner in which you handled this . . . with much forgiveness in your heart . . . a beautiful Christian.; June 12, 2010 at 11:03 PM
Becky said...: Amen, amen and AMEN!!!

What a wonderful example of how to respond to harsh criticism. Thank you for your hard work!

God bless!; June 13, 2010 at 1:14 AM
Rachel @ Finding Joy said...: Thank you for standing for your beliefs and being gracious. Your response speaks volumes.

Love your site!; June 13, 2010 at 9:01 AM
Ashley Wells said...: Thank you so much for giving us an example of how to handle problems when they come up!

You handled this situation with extreme grace and love that I know can only come from Christ!

Thanks for being a Titus 2 "older" woman!

-Ashley; June 13, 2010 at 1:20 PM
kewkew said...: I just wanted to say I did break down and check out the other blog and all the comments and I did leave a couple of comments myself. I actually didn't have a huge problem with the original blog but the comments were quite disturbing. What really bothers me is the response from other Christians who have a problem with your challenge. It is as if they see this as something you have decided is right, instead of something that comes directly from Scripture. Very gracious response you posted here. Blessings, I'm looking forward to this challenge!; June 13, 2010 at 2:06 PM
Kat @ For the Love of Chaos said...: I am thankful for the controversy that surrounded your challenge because it led me to your blog (through ShePosts.com)

I share your beliefs and am subscribing to your blog. Despite the circumstances, it is my pleasure to "meet" you and perhaps I'll pour my own glass of lemonade as I "listen" to you share your thoughts in blogland!; June 13, 2010 at 4:37 PM
Alicia said...: I have read your blog before and actually am doing this challenge without blogging about it but didn't hear about the "debate" until I received an email from sheposts.com today. I will be praying for you and all of the other women doing this challenge.; June 13, 2010 at 11:01 PM
Anonymous said...: I am not for sure why anyone would oppose this challenge. I haven't heard or read anything against this challenge I jsut usually tend not to come across that stuff and filter stuff really carefully.

Blessings to you for you doing this challenge. Thanks.; June 14, 2010 at 7:06 PM
Luckymom143 said...: Oh Goodness, I haven't been able to check in lately but I seriously don't understand some people. I guess it isn't my job to understand them as I am still trying to understand myself and my journey. I feel overwhelmed but encouraged reading your blog. Overwhelmed because I am not where I want to be and there is a long way for me to go but encouraged that a step at a time and lots of prayer can take us anywhere. Although others might not agree, everything you say encourages others to do better. I was always told, take what you can that will help you and leave the rest behind. There is something for EVERYONE to learn from you. I am amazed by your unwavering faith and will say an extra prayer for you tonite! (hugs) Courtney; June 19, 2010 at 1:40 AM
ChristinaLynn said...: For all of the Christian women out there who believe that submitting to your husband is an antiquated, out-dated form of slavery:

I used to be just like you.

One day, the Scripture slapped me right in the face. Ephesians 5:22 and Colossians 3:18 Just like submitting to GOD is a freedom you will never experience otherwise, submitting to your husband (as GOD intends) is a freedom on this earth that you could otherwise not know.

I pray that one day, very soon God will open your eyes to the truth of these verses and that you will be able to live a much more prosperous life in His will.

I thank you Courtney for showing us all an excellent example of Christian dignity and grace in the face of the enemy's attacks.; June 25, 2010 at 3:52 PM

Women Living Well Blog

: Name: Courtney (Women Living Well); Location: Ohio, United States

I am a stay-at-home home schooling mom of 2, a son (age 8) and a daughter (6). I have been married to Keith, my high school sweet heart, for 13 years. My passion to know God and share him with others led me to the Moody Bible Institute where I graduated with a degree in Evangelism and Discipleship. Last year, I appeared on the Rachael Ray Show as a 1950's Housewife. To learn more about me visit my "About Me" page.

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