Marcus and I met at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) as college freshmen. We shared a chemistry lab class together for the Spring 2010 semester. We spoke occasionally on a "hi" and "bye" basis, and at the end of the spring 2010 semester, we went our separate ways pursuing different degrees: me- BS in Health Science/Occupation and Wellness, him- doctorate of pharmacy. I graduated in the spring of 2013 then entered in my studies as an occupational therapy student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and Marcus continued at FAMU as a PharmD candidate.
Fast forward to the spring of 2015, I was in my 2nd year of my Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy degree, Marcus a P4 PharmD candidate. Marcus and I began engaging in conversation on Facebook through a bible verse challenge in which we shared our favorite bible verses with one another. One particular night, I shared a sermon that I watched on YouTube with Marcus. Marcus then messaged me to discuss the sermon, and we began conversing frequently about GOD which then led to their courtship, which started on March 24th, 2015. Right away, we set boundaries and vowed to honor GOD by: not engaging in physical intimacy, and by promoting GOD's word, using our courtship for GOD's purpose and honor. Less than a year later, we were engaged on March 20th, 2016.
Marcus and I have realized that flesh (humans) without the spirit of GOD is disastrous. We can do nothing without Christ, which means we need Him for ALL things- including loving one another. Christ calls us to remain in Him, which means- remain obedient and focused on His word. “Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me...........But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!” John 15:4, 7 (NLT). During our courtship, we focused on remaining in Christ and growing into our GOD-given roles and purpose. By focusing on GOD and using scripture to guide our actions we have been able to work through problems and also avoid many problems.
We have learned that we can only do things with GOD's strength. Our strength comes solely from Him.
Life is beautiful because GOD created it. Everything He creates is beautiful. The grass is as green as our perspective, so daily we must choose to see things beautifully and be grateful and content for all that we have. Our outlook has become more focused on what Christ thinks about us instead of what people think about us. We cannot please both Christ and this world for the standards of both are different. So we work to be approved by GOD.
We would encourage anyone in courtships to pursue GOD and to stay focused on Him, not on anyone or anything of this world. Don't be distracted- distractions are avoided by focusing on Christ. Every answer to any question is found in the Bible. Use it daily.
Adrienne – Thank you so much for sharing your love story! May God bless your upcoming nuptials and union. We appreciate your support!
For His Glory Only,
XOXO
Danielle J.
