The Other Side of Hug-and-Kiss...

There is only one way to remain grounded in Things Above; in the unseen...by seeking faithfully to be found faithful!Remembering the reward for faithfulness is veiled on earth... Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful. But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so—not being a forgetful hearer, but an effective doer—he will be blessed in what he does. His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master!’ Faithfulness is like our 'marriage vow' to God,forsaking all others, as long as we live, in the matter of fidelity and allegiance to Himwith love second to nonebecause we have resolved All For Christ!Just as in earthly marriage as time goes by and human nature rears its unlovely head, we don't always 'feel' the passionand excitement as in the beginning, but pray it is replaced witha deeper, matured awareness that faithfulnessmust/will weather the highs and lows that are bound to be, 'Well done, Thou good and faithful servant' is no small fete to win.It requires daily surrender to our Heavenly Father,our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ,and to the Holy Spirit who indwells the believer.Faithfulness forgives and accepts forgiveness. Faithfulness is a firm and humble obedience,a penitent repentance when we stumble/sin,a modest presentation of Self,so we may give God the gloryfor making possible the boastof our salvation. *** Today we are attending the wedding of my nieceand we will witness the vows they make;'till death do us part'We will hear them speak before Godthe words that bind two into one; So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.” A wedding day is a day of joy and celebration and grave solemnityas vows made on earth are sealed in heaven. It is no laughing matter, ThisThe other side of hug-and-kissOf being true no matter whatWhen tempted to undo love's knot Love's vows are not of fickle fontBut transcend every wish and wantBecause these words, 'till death doth part'Are etched forever on God's heart When hug and kiss is interspersedWith human foible's selfish worstStartled, we start to humbly learnFaithfulness grants no quick return ...but refines rose-coloured romanceWith love, that would not stand a chanceWithout steadfast commitment toHe who made us 'no longer two' 'A three-strand cord is hard to break''Love bears all things' love's highest stakeWith God 'all things' are possibleWithout, love is soon miserable For self times two is not enoughTo satisfy the ways of loveHow harsh is disillusioned bliss;The other side of hug-and-kiss But oh, how lovely in returnIs love that is willing to learnAnd learn again, the meaning ofA patient, kind and faithful love For tis no laughing matter; thisThe other/weathered side of hug-and-kissBut is, when all is done and toldLife's greatest beauty to behold ...as the covenant of 'I do'Remembers, one cannot be twoWhen faithfulness seeks no excuseTo sever what no man can loose © Janet Martin For those who are seeking truthand maybe reasons to re-resolve to remain faithfulfirst and foremost to God, some helpful links below Dr. Joseph Webb on the truth about I Do, based on God's Word! , more  or  or more from Dr. Joseph Webb or this;