Podcast
Questions and Answers
What profession did Thelma have before becoming a stay-at-home mom?
What profession did Thelma have before becoming a stay-at-home mom?
What significant event occurred in 1989 in relation to the author's business?
What significant event occurred in 1989 in relation to the author's business?
What is described as the most important decision a person can make?
What is described as the most important decision a person can make?
How did Thelma support the author during tough times at work?
How did Thelma support the author during tough times at work?
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What activity did the couple engage in regularly that strengthened their spiritual bond?
What activity did the couple engage in regularly that strengthened their spiritual bond?
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What activity brings Thelma the most pleasure and satisfaction after retiring from nursing?
What activity brings Thelma the most pleasure and satisfaction after retiring from nursing?
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What was the author's emotional state upon learning that Union Pacific would not renew their contract?
What was the author's emotional state upon learning that Union Pacific would not renew their contract?
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How did the speaker describe his wife in relation to their challenges?
How did the speaker describe his wife in relation to their challenges?
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What role did Thelma play in managing the stress from bill collectors?
What role did Thelma play in managing the stress from bill collectors?
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What did the couple do every morning as a ritual?
What did the couple do every morning as a ritual?
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What Biblical passage does the author reference to describe love?
What Biblical passage does the author reference to describe love?
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What common background did the speaker and his wife share?
What common background did the speaker and his wife share?
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What was a significant source of strength during challenging times for the couple?
What was a significant source of strength during challenging times for the couple?
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What lesson did the speaker learn from his wife regarding the Scriptures?
What lesson did the speaker learn from his wife regarding the Scriptures?
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What notable change occurred in the speaker's job situation after getting married?
What notable change occurred in the speaker's job situation after getting married?
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Study Notes
Supportive Spouse
- A supportive spouse is a blessing from God, mirroring Proverbs 18:22.
- The author met his wife, Thelma, at age 24, feeling instant love and connection.
- Their courtship included deep conversations and validation of values, ideals, and dreams.
- Shared spiritual backgrounds – both grew up with church involvement – are crucial for a good marriage.
- The couple immersed themselves in the Bible, prayer, and scripture study, making it a central part of their life.
- Prayer is a daily ritual at home, with Thelma praying and singing at home while the author works, highlighting faith and the importance of prayer for overcoming challenges.
- The author experienced job instability, including unemployment, during early marriage, with Thelma working as a nurse to support the family.
- The author eventually became a sales representative for Federal Express, traveling often.
- In 1981, the author was honored in the company's Sales Hall of Fame.
- A supportive spouse helps through hardship, as well as after difficult sales days through encouragement.
- A business catastrophe, Union Pacific ending their contract (representing 70% of their business), was met with Thelma's support.
- She provided comfort and encouragement, ensuring the home environment was a sanctuary.
- Thelma screened bills preventing stress at home.
- Despite business hardship, Thelma never lost faith in the author.
- She believes in his vision for the company, and trust and belief are key in a marriage.
Thelma's Community Engagement
- Thelma retired from nursing to pursue volunteer work.
- She is active in community affairs and boards; she is a board member of multiple St. Louis area organizations.
- She chairs events and leads committees, exemplified by her role in the "High Tea" fundraiser for Girls Inc.
- The author appreciates her high energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to giving back.
- Her generosity is reflected in time, effort, and financial contributions to her favorite charities.
- Her community involvement takes her away from home, but the author values her contributions immensely.
Love as a Cornerstone
- A love like the one between the author and Thelma is described with biblical principles.
- The author cites 1 Corinthians 13:4–7, highlighting characteristics of love, including patience, kindness, and belief in others.
- Love is a key element in any marriage, and is essential for support through hardship.
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Description
Explore the journey of a couple whose marriage is deeply rooted in faith, communication, and mutual support. This quiz highlights the significance of shared spiritual values and the role of prayer in overcoming life's challenges together. Discover how a strong partnership can weather the storms of uncertainty, from job instability to personal achievements.
