One of the biggest challenges of ministry is the need to ask for money … the need to raise funds to continue to minister. To be very candid and honest with you, that is my least favorite part about running Foundation Restoration. I cringe at the thought of asking, let along begging at times, for
By Ashley McIlwain The leaves have all changed, splashing the landscape around me with brilliant hues of red, yellow, and orange. I love breathing in the crisp air deeply and allowing it to flood my lungs. The sun warms my chilled nose with its golden rays of light. A wave of emotion overcomes me as
By Ashley McIlwain Marriage means game over. Or at least that’s what people seem to think and say. T-shirts are made with that message on it. “Everything changes, man, once you get married.” “You sure you want to get married? Your life will be over!” Ever heard any of these things about marriage? I know
By Ashley McIlwain Perhaps you’ve seen it. It’s a blog post that’s gone viral called Marriage Isn’t For You. I’ve had countless people send the link my way telling me that I need to check it out, so I did. In the blog, a newly married husband shares about some wise advice his father gave
By Ashley McIlwain One of the unique qualities of marriage is the intimacy that lies within this sacred, one-of-a-kind relationship. The deep level of intimacy shared by a husband and wife is unrivaled by any other relationship we will come in contact with. Choosing someone, out of a world full of possible people, to spend
By Ashley McIlwain The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. –Proverbs 18:21 What we say matters. It matters more than we think. With our words we can build up or tear down. That goes for our spouse, our marriage, our friendships, and our own
By Ashley McIlwain The other day I was having a conversation with someone about how much perspective plays into relationships, conversations, and our general approach to life. We all have a filter that we sift our observations, discussions, and interactions through, which is why no two people see things exactly the same way. That’s also
By Ashley McIlwain You’ve been waiting for this moment. A break away from work, responsibilities, and the kids. It’s just you and your spouse … finally. It’s more of a rare occasion than you’d like to admit, but here you are. But now what? There’s a moment of panic as the awkward silence takes over.
By Ashley McIlwain Where do we draw the line? Where do we say white meets black in the choices of life? Where does safety end and danger begin? We all face these questions in our lives in nearly every area. When we are dating, these questions often swirl around physical intimacy. How far can we
By Ashley McIlwain It’s that time of year again. In fact, it’s my favorite time of year … autumn. That’s right; the leaves are changing into their gorgeously hued splendor. The air is cool and crisp. Apples can be purchased by the bushel. There’s an overall enchanted feeling that begins to envelop us with its
