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A Love Story Written by God: Celebrating 67 Years of My Husband
Sometimes the greatest blessings in our lives arrive quietly, in moments we almost didn’t attend, places we never expected to go, or conversations that begin with a simple glance. When we look back, we can see the gentle hand of God guiding our steps all along.
Today, my beautiful husband Peter turns 67, and I would love to share a little of our story, and how God brought him into my life at just the right time.
If you’d prefer to listen to this message, click on the link below and listen for free on Podbean. Alternatively, you can listen to The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast on your favorite streaming platform, e.g. Spotify & Apple Podcasts.
https://ozsazzles.podbean.com/e/a-love-story-written-by-god-celebrating-67-years-of-my-husband/
When God Meets Us in Our Hardest Seasons
Many years ago, I was a single mother with a beautiful baby boy.
While I was pregnant, a lovely Christian woman befriended me during my pre-natal hospital visits. Through her kindness and faith, she helped lead me back to God.
But those were not easy days.
Many of my former “friends” had distanced themselves from me, and I was experiencing rejection from several directions. Life felt uncertain and lonely.
My mother kindly offered to look after my baby one evening if I attended a Catholic Charismatic Prayer Meeting she had heard about from her local priest.
That first Friday night, I walked in feeling a mixture of trepidation and anticipation, unsure of what to expect.
The Night Our Eyes Met
There was a Mass that evening, and Peter happened to be bringing the offering plate around.
When he handed the plate to me, our eyes locked.
Later that evening, we found ourselves talking together. Over the following months our friendship grew, and eventually we went on a date.
Less than a year later we were married.
Some rumours circulated among family and friends that I must have been pregnant, but our next child was born exactly forty weeks after our wedding night!
Life has certainly had its ups and downs over the years, but I can honestly say that our love has grown stronger and deeper with time.
Learning What Real Love Looks Like
Scripture says:
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV)When I look back, I see some important things.
Before Peter came into my life, I had often dated domineering men. I was used to feeling small, as though my needs and opinions did not matter.
Meeting Peter was completely different.
First of all, we met in a Christian environment, something I never expected.
While we were dating, we would sing hymns and Christian songs together and talk about God.
That foundation changed everything.
A Husband Who Reflects Christ’s Love
Peter has been a magnificent husband and father.
He is deeply loyal, loving, and committed to our family. He has always supported our children and me in every season of life.
In fact, I would never have had the courage to study nursing if it had not been for Peter’s unwavering encouragement and belief in my abilities.
As the years have passed, our relationship has grown not only in love but also in faith.
Now we:
- Read the Bible together
- Pray together
- Support each other in everything we do
- Pursue God together
- Serve others together
These things were quite foreign to my earlier experience of relationships.
I grew up with a very hardworking and strong mother who had to carry much of the responsibility herself. My father provided financially, but emotional encouragement was less common in those days. He was a man of his generation, hardworking, shaped by his experiences serving in the Vietnam War.
Because of this, Peter’s love and devotion were something entirely new to me.
God’s Design for Marriage
The Bible gives a powerful description of how husbands are called to love their wives:
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her… In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies.”
Ephesians 5:25-28 (NIV)When I reflect on our life together, I can see clearly that God orchestrated our meeting.
He knew that together we would be stronger than we ever could have been apart.
Over time we have developed a deep understanding of each other. We often describe ourselves as two halves of one whole.
Friends sometimes ask why we don’t do more things separately, but the truth is we simply do life better together.
A Heart Full of Gratitude
Today I want to thank God for blessing me with a husband who:
- Perseveres through difficult seasons
- Loves me faithfully and unreservedly
- Continued to believe in us when I had given up
- Is a wonderful father, father-in-law, and grandfather
- Is deeply loved by all who know him
Peter, my life is so much richer because you are in it.
I am truly blessed.
Happy 67th birthday, my love.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of love and the blessing of marriage. Thank You for the way You guide our lives and bring the right people into our journey at the right time.
Lord, I thank You for Peter and for the years we have shared together. Continue to strengthen our marriage, deepen our faith, and help us to serve You side by side.
May our relationship reflect Your love to our children, grandchildren, and everyone around us.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Activation
Take a moment today to thank God for the people He has placed in your life.
If you are married, tell your spouse one thing you deeply appreciate about them.
If you are waiting for the right partner, trust that God is able to orchestrate your story in ways you cannot yet see.
And if you are walking through a difficult season in your marriage, ask God to renew your love and strengthen your commitment to one another.
God is the author of beautiful redemption stories, including ours.
Thank you so much for joining me today at Jesus 4 Generations.
If this message encouraged you, please consider sharing it with a friend or family member who might be blessed by it as well.
I’d love to hear how God has orchestrated circumstances in your life to bless you with someone who encourages you. Please share your story in the comments. And if you would like to follow along with future messages, reflections, and devotionals, you can subscribe below.
Until next time, may God bless you and your family, and may His peace guide you in every season of life.
And remember, now is always the right time to begin.
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Small Acts, Big Impact: How Simple Kindness Can Change Lives
https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-6dfrs-1a618b1
Small acts of kindness can have a powerful impact. In this episode of the Jesus 4 Generations Podcast, we explore how everyday moments: prayer, encouragement, and generosity; can bring God’s love and hope to the people around us.
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How to Apologize: Christian Humility & Restoring Relationships
https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-f8gzx-1a57384
Have you ever felt that sick feeling in your stomach when you realize you were wrong? In this episode, I share a personal story about taking responsibility, embracing biblical humility, and discovering how God restores relationships and replaces fear with peace.
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Admitting When You’re Wrong: A Biblical Path to Humility and Restoration
What if the very thing you fear most, admitting you were wrong, is actually the doorway to peace, healing, and spiritual growth? Sometimes the greatest strength we can show is the humility to say, “I made a mistake… and I’m sorry.”
If you’d prefer to listen to this message, you can enjoy The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast here:
https://ozsazzles.podbean.com/e/how-to-apologize-christian-humility-restoring-relationships/
Or listen on your favorite streaming platform, e.g. Spotify and Apple Podcasts, etc.
No one likes being humiliated. Admitting when we’re wrong, whether at home, at work, or even at church, can feel deeply uncomfortable. Yet learning how to apologize and take responsibility is essential for restoring relationships and walking in biblical humility. When we make a mistake, there is only one healthy path forward: we own it and we make it right.
I don’t know about you, but whenever I realize I’ve made a mistake, I get that sick feeling in my stomach. My heart races. My thoughts spiral. And unfortunately, it seems to happen to me more often than I’d like!
Sometimes it feels like I don’t have the emotional resources to weather what might follow. But then I remember:
I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
Why We Fear Admitting Mistakes
What causes so much anxiety around admitting fault?
Is it fear of man?
Fear of rejection?
Fear of humiliation?Recently, I made a mistake at work that had far-reaching consequences. To make matters worse, someone else was blamed for it. It caused upset and tension among my colleagues.
I knew what I needed to do. I prayed and sought the Lord for guidance. Humility, was called for. Integrity was required. As scripture says:
Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12 (ESV)
The Power of Taking Responsibility
When I spoke to my colleagues affected by my error, I admitted I had written the draft and apologized. Although, they were upset, I didn’t try to rationalize what had happened. It doesn’t help to make excuses when we regret something, it seems like we’re not remorseful.
The next time I saw the person blamed, I admitted my error in judgement and said sorry. I did the same when I spoke to my Line manager.
How God Restores Relationships Through Humility
Taking responsibility, unreservedly, and expressing regret each time, didn’t lead to a tirade from my leaders. I think they appreciated my candor and acceptance of responsibility.
I then took steps to repair the damage.
The burden left immediately. Fear deserted me. Peace reigned. As Peter reminds us:
After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace [who imparts His blessing and favor], who called you to His own eternal glory in Christ, will Himself complete, confirm, strengthen, and establish you [making you what you ought to be]
1 Peter 5:10 (AMP)If you find yourself in a situation where you have made a mistake and need to restore the damage, seek God. He will direct your steps.
Prayer
Lord God, bless me with the humility and courage needed to apologize. Give me the opportunity and the words to make amends for the hurt I caused. Pave the way for restoration of the trust that’s been broken and help rebuild the relationships that have been wounded, in Jesus name.
Amen
Activation
Consider taking time today to be with the Lord. Ask Him ‘Give me eyes to see who I’ve hurt.’ Sit quietly, waiting and He will show you.
Then, repent to God for the words or actions that caused the damage. Ask Him to show you what to do next.
He will strengthen you and guide your steps towards reconciliation.
If this reflection encouraged you, please feel free to share the link with someone who may need it today. I’d love to hear your reconciliation testimony. I encourage you to comment below and subscribe so you don’t miss any posts. God bless you and your family!
Sources:
- https://www.biblegateway.com
- https://www.openbible.info/topics/endurance_in_trials
- https://www.openbible.info/topics/trials_and_tribulations
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How to Overcome Fear and Step Into Your God-Given Purpose
https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-pv69y-1a5037d
Are you living smaller than God intended? Fear and self-doubt can quietly hold us back from the dreams He has placed in our hearts. In this episode, I share biblical encouragement to overcome self-limiting beliefs, trust God’s promises, and take one courageous step toward your God-given purpose.
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The Blessing of Being Intentional With Our Time: How Creating Space for God Brings Rest, Connection, and Renewal
https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-zmam7-1a29b18
Being intentional with our time has brought rest, deeper connection, and renewed peace as we chose to create space for God in our everyday evenings.
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The Blessing of Being Intentional With Our Time
How Creating Space for God Brings Rest, Connection, and Renewal
In a world filled with noise, distractions, and endless scrolling, we often wonder why we feel exhausted and disconnected. What if the peace, rest, and renewal we long for begin with something simple: intentionally creating space for God in our everyday lives?
If you’d prefer to listen to this post, please click on the link below and listen for free on Podbean. Alternatively, you can listen to The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast on your favorite streaming platform, e.g. Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.
Making Space Again
I’ve been spring cleaning… in the middle of summer… here in Queensland, Australia, LOL. Each weekend I’ve been tackling a different room.
Every time I finish a room, I feel so pleased with the result. And every time, I ask myself the same question:
Why didn’t I do this sooner? Why did I avoid and dread starting?
As I’ve reflected on that, I’ve realised this pattern hasn’t just shown up in my home, it’s appeared in my spiritual life too.
There have been seasons where I became so busy doing life that I quietly put off spending time with my loving God. I’d tell myself I would pray later in the evening, usually just before bed, but more often than not, I was simply too tired and would forget altogether.
When I honestly stopped to consider what I was doing instead, it was often time spent on things that didn’t truly nourish my soul — watching television or scrolling through social media.
Learning to Be Intentional
Once we became aware of this, my husband and I made a conscious decision to use our evenings more intentionally, rather than simply falling into a familiar rut.
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
Psalm 90:12 (NIV)What surprised us most was how much time we actually had.
Our evenings began to feel spacious again.
We found ourselves talking more, going for walks, catching up with friends, listening to music, and reading. Other nights we’d play cards or a board game together. Occasionally, we still watch television, but now we intentionally choose what we’re going to watch and why, instead of mindlessly scrolling through channels.
Putting God First
The biggest change of all, though, is that we now spend time in the Bible and in prayer, listening to God before anything else.
We’re certainly not perfect, but this has become far more common than not.
And the most unexpected outcome hasn’t just been how long our evenings feel, although they truly do, it’s how rested and relaxed we feel when we go to bed.
We’re sleeping better.
We’re waking refreshed.
And we’re beginning each new day with greater peace.“I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; For You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”
Psalm 4:8 (NKJV)
The Gift of Stewarding Time
Stewarding our time, our most limited and precious resource, has become a blessing far beyond what we expected.
When we intentionally create space for God, for connection, for rest, and for the things that truly matter, our hearts begin to breathe again.
Sometimes the changes that bring the greatest peace are not dramatic at all. Sometimes they begin quietly… with a simple decision to be more present and intentional with the life God has already given us.
Prayer
Loving Father,
Thank You for the gift of time and for the gentle ways You invite us closer to You. Help us to be wise stewards of our days and evenings, choosing what nourishes our hearts and draws us into Your presence.
Quiet the noise and distractions around us, and teach us to rest in You. May our lives reflect intentional love, peace, and gratitude.
In Jesus name, Amen.
Gentle Activation
This week, choose one evening to be intentional with your time.
Turn off unnecessary distractions, open your Bible, and sit quietly with God — even if only for ten minutes. Ask Him:
“Lord, how would You like me to spend my time?”
Notice how your heart responds, and carry that awareness into the rest of your week.
If this reflection encouraged you, please consider sharing it with someone who might need it today. I’d love to hear your thoughts — how are you being intentional with your time, and what has God been gently inviting you into lately? Feel free to leave a comment below.
You’re also warmly invited to like, subscribe, and join the Jesus 4 Generations community, where we encourage one another to walk with God, no matter what season of life we’re in.
Right now is always the best time to begin.
Source:
All Bible quotes were taken from https://www.biblegateway.com
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The Quiet Power of Kind Words
If you’d prefer to listen to this post, please click on the link below and listen for free on Podbean. Alternatively, you can listen to The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast on your favorite streaming platform.
https://ozsazzles.podbean.com/e/the-quiet-power-of-kind-words/
It’s amazing what a few kind words can do. They are like cool, refreshing water on parched ground.
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV)Today, I accidentally called a friend and quickly hung up. She rang me back moments later. I explained it was a mistake, and she shared that there was some turmoil in her life, without going into detail. The Holy Spirit gave me a word to bless her with, and she received it gratefully.
In turn, she lifted me by thanking me for the times I had spoken life into her during past seasons.
Later that same day, another beautiful friend sent me a message about how my podcast had touched her heart. She thanked me for it, and her kindness warmed my spirit and gave me the nudge to write this post.
“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but strengthening one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
Hebrews 10:23–25 (ESV)We must remember that every word of affirmation and every moment of edification the Holy Spirit prompts us to give has the power to bless someone deeply. These gentle nudges are not accidental — they are invitations to be part of God’s loving work in someone else’s life.
I have no doubt that calling my friend by “accident” this morning was a divine appointment. God created a space for us to uplift one another.
And when my other friend took the time to send me her message, it set off a ripple effect that led to these words being written — and hopefully to someone else being encouraged through them.
Never underestimate the power of a phone call, a message, or a simple visit. You may be exactly where God wants you to be, at just the right moment, to bring light and hope into someone’s day.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the people You place in our lives — those who speak hope into us and those You invite us to bless in return. Help us to hear Your gentle promptings and to respond with love, kindness, and courage. May our words bring healing, strength, and comfort to those who need it most today. Use us as vessels of Your grace, so that every conversation, message, and small act of care reflects Your heart.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Activation
Today, pause and ask the Holy Spirit to place one person on your heart. Send them a kind message, make a quick phone call, or say a simple prayer for them. It doesn’t need to be long or perfect — just sincere. Trust that God can use even the smallest act of love to bring hope and encouragement to someone who needs it.
Thank you for reading this post. If it blessed you, please share it with someone who might need encouragement today. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss any future posts. Kindly, consider leaving a comment, liking and joining our growing community. God bless you and your family!
All Bible verses sourced from Open Bible https://www.openbible.info/topics/encouragement
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The Quiet Power of Kind Words
https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-gnbn2-1a1b9bb
In this gentle and faith-filled episode, I share how a simple phone call and a heartfelt message became divine moments of connection and blessing. Be encouraged to listen for the Holy Spirit’s promptings and discover how God uses small acts of kindness to touch hearts.
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Teach Us to Pray: Drawing Closer to God Every Day
https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-f8kzm-1a144aa
Prayer is more than words, it is an invitation into a living relationship with God. In this episode, I reflect on what it means to pray continually, to listen as well as speak, and to trust God’s perfect will. Be encouraged to draw closer to Him and experience His peace, love, and guidance throughout your day.
Jesus 4 Generations
Revealing our loving God to generations
Jesus 4 Generations 