Friday, October 01, 2010

Living Well, October 2010

One person can make a difference and every person should try. John F. Kennedy

Think about who the person is that has made a positive difference in your life personally or in our world. Can you be that person to someone else or to our world?

The theme of our upcoming dinner is the Power of One (more details). Our desire is that many of those receiving our invitations will attend—to be inspired, to see what God has done through one ministry, and to be challenged for the future. Many have faithfully attended our previous six dinners. We are praying that many who have never attended will come for the first time and that all who are familiar with our ministry will invite someone new to attend with them.

Besides being inspired, we have some great food and a fun silent auction. This year’s auction includes many of our favorites from the past—restaurants, gift cards, African artisan pieces—but also some new that align with our ministry’s emphasis on marriage strengthening—marriage conference gift certificate (FamilyLife’s Weekend to Remember), marriage materials, date night fun.

The event is on October 14 at our church. The silent auction and dinner are from 6:15-7:15; the ministry presentation begins at 7:15. RSVP by calling 792-2586 or email inof@livingwellokc.org by October 7. You are welcome (and encouraged) to bring a guest - just give us their names.

As we explain our ministry to someone, they often ask how people know about us—our answer is always the same—through a personal recommendation. Even though we have a listing in the yellow pages and an internet presence, most people who utilize our services and who support us have been connected to us through someone to whom we have ministered or have joined together for ministry. Their personal recommendations affirmed their confidence in us. We are extremely grateful for that affirmation and seek to honor that confidence. We consistently review what we are teaching and saying about marriage and money to make sure we stay true to God’s Word and His heart.


We are asking you to consider who you can invite to come with you to our dinner. Consider how our ministry might make a difference in their lives.

Have you heard that the recession ended in June of 2009? Does the American public believe that statistic? Anxiety abounds in our land about the future of our economy and the direction of our government leaders. The new trend of the American people saving money (instead of spending more than they make) disturbs the “experts.”

Some reports say that young adults are abandoning marriage and the church because of economic stress. Money continues to be a huge player on the field of marriage and faith. On our blog, Living Well in Marriage (http://www.livingwellinmarriage.blogspot.com/) we have two new articles. Money to Marry describes how young people are delaying marriage until they are financially secure (even though they may live together and/or having children together). Women, Money, and Fear uncovers some of women's fears in relation to money and finances, especially the "bag lady" syndrome. Both issues greatly influence marriages today.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support. For some reason, the beginning of a school year seems to motivate people to seek help for their marriages. So, most of our appointment times for marriage guidance are full, although couples can still join our class. We do have some openings for financial guidance. Donna does some appointments alone with women on marriage issues, which gives Ed some openings to do financial guidance at those times. We do couple marriage guidance together.

Donna and Ed Edwards

A truly great person is the one who gives you a chance."

"To the world you may be just one person, but to one person you may be the world."

"We must remember that one determined person can make a significant difference, and that a small group of determined people can change the course of history."

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Ephesians 4:2