Welcome from Coast to Coast...

Hello Readers,

You are receiving this monthly newsletter, Bridges of Hope, because I believe it will provide wonderful information, and valuable insight regarding today's issues.

We may have been introduced because you are a(n):

• Event Planner
• Pastor or Leader
• Prayer Partner
• Workshop Attendee
• Small Group Facilitator
• Person who works in recovery ministry
• Person who has a desire to strengthen marriages

Regardless of our connection, it is my prayer that the content of this newsletter will allow you to ponder, praise, and smile.   

Enjoy,

Discoveries through Change

by Laura Petherbridge

My husband and I have been though a lot of changes during the last 2 years. The most recent was a move back to north Florida for his new job, after living near Atlanta for 8 years. Leaving good friends, our pretty house, and an airport that could take me non-stop to my speaking events was difficult, but we are adjusting.

I’ve been told that a single Christian shouldn’t date a non-Christian. But isn’t that a good way to lead someone into a personal relationship with Jesus? - Nancy from PA

I admire your desire to share Christ, but dating is not the advisable avenue. This is “missionary dating,” and usually pain is the result.

When a Christian dates a non-Christian you are placing your emotions and your future in a vulnerable position. God’s Word clearly advises us to, "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life." (Proverbs 4:23)

If you fall in love with this person, and they decide not to become a Christian, then you are left with the enormous task of falling out of love. Plus the other person’s heart may be broken in the process.

Have you considered that your date may fake a conversion to Christ to please you? Unfortunately, I’ve seen this happen many times. And then the Christian is married to someone with a completely different value system. This is why God clearly warns his people about being “unequally yoked” with an unbeliever. (2 Corinthians 6:14)

When a Christian dates a Non-Christian it iss “playing with fire.” Heed God’s Word. He is trying to protect you, because you are His Beloved. He won’t hold anything good from you. (Psalm 84:11) It’s a promise.

Laura Petherbridge knows how to strengthen relationships. This straightforward presentation, geared for singles and married couples, reveals fresh insights that will transform today’s audience. Using practical steps and personal experience Laura shares the essential truths that make any relationship fully alive.

Click Here for more about this topic.

News & Upcoming
Events:

Laura is now co-authoring a book
The Smart Stepmom with Family Therapist
and Stepfamily expert Ron Deal.

This much needed resource will be a magnificent tool for any woman who is dealing with the complexities of step parenting, as well as those who are dating or engaged to a man with children. We will keep you informed!!

Laura is presenting: "Why Can’t I Say NO?" at the SAM Conference in Orlando, FL, May 8 - 10. For more info, go to Laura's online schedule.

Resource
Give-Away Contest

Putting valuable resources into your hand is one of my priorities. Every month, I'll be including a contest for any of my readers to enter simply by contacting me.

This month, the 10th person to contact me will win. Good luck!

This book will enable you to identify the root issues of dysfunction and stop destructive patterns in any relationship.

For more information contact Leslie Vernick at www.LeslieVernick.com

Did You Know...

Age at marriage has been on the increase for more than four decades. In 1960, the median age for a first marriage was 22.8 years for men and 20.3 for women. In 2005 the median age for first marriage was 27 years for men and 26 years for women.
(Popenoe & Whitehead, 2004)

More than half of all couples cohabit before marriage. The number of cohabiting couples has increased 800% since the 1960’s, when fewer than 500,000 couples were cohabiting. In 2005, according to the U.S. Bureau of the Census, 5.5 million couples were cohabiting.

85% of the U.S. population will marry at least once. 
(U.S. Bureau of the Census, 2006)

There were 2.3 million marriages and 1.2 million divorces in 2005. (U.S. Bureau of the Census, 2006)