Fred P. Barker, MDiv, MSE, LPC

08/16/2025

Hearts become hard because of hurt and sinfulness. We sometimes close down to one another and lose our vulnerability in marriage because we have been wounded or because our spouse touches on an old wound that has not yet healed. That is normal. But we are called to deal with that and not allow it to turn to bitterness. We also close down because we rebel against God’s requirement for us to humble ourselves and forgive others as He has forgiven us. If we keep our hearts soft, strong, and protected, it will serve our marriages well.

08/09/2025

“For people who are having conflict in their marriage, first of all, don't give up. Don't let Satan in. Don't turn to an affair. That's devastating. Turn to the Lord, because with God all things are possible.” - Dani Florea

Monte and Dani Florea married in 1986, both emerging from previous broken relationships. But over time, the pressures and struggles of working together in their very successful ad company put a devastating strain on their marriage. They battled isolation, escapism, and even an emotional affair. The beautiful life they had built crashed to a halt. But God was not done with them yet. Through support groups and scripture, God brought the two of them to a place where they would be ready to work on healing the deep wounds. On September 4, 2017, five years after their divorce, Monte and Dani stood in front of their church, their children and God, … and said “I do” all over again. Now, they stand as a beautiful example of God's incredible restoration power.

(See their full story in the comment section! Credit to CBN for this story)

08/03/2025

"The heart of a man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps." - Proverbs 16:9

If life has taken a turn against the plans you had, know that it's okay to struggle with that disappointment. And know that the Lord is establishing a path for you.

07/28/2025

God doesn’t promise to keep you from troubled waters, but he does promise to walk with you through them.

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and the rivers will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, and the flame will not burn you.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭2‬ ‭CSB‬‬

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and the rivers will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, and the flame will not burn you.

07/25/2025

05/04/2025

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

02/19/2025

"Beware the Trap: When Attractions Turn into Distractions