My guest today is Gary Thomas.  Gary is a bestselling author and international speaker whose ministry brings people closer to Christ and closer to others. He unites the study of Scripture, church history, and the Christian classics to foster spiritual growth and deeper relationships within the Christian community.  A few of Gary's books are Sacred Marriage, Sacred Parenting, and Cherish. In this episode we discuss:How moving in obedience to what God is calling you to do does not guarantee that it will be easyDon't judge your discernment by the immediate outcomeThe purpose for marriage is holiness, not just happinessHoliness preserves our happinessIt is important that we admit the difficulty that is in marriageRunning a marathon is not easy but it is worth it.  So it is in marriage or anything that is worth doing wellWhat makes a sacred marriage?  What is the difference between a couple that makes it vs. a couple that gives up?Why it's important that we reinvent intimacy through different stages of marriageSacred parenting- let your kids see the difference in your actionsFor more information on Gary Thomas:Go to https://garythomas.com/To buy Gary's books go to https://garythomas.com/books/Get his books here https://gooddadproject.com/book-shop/Follow Gary on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/garythomasbooks/For more information on the ministry of Discerning Dad:Get all my links in one easy spot! https://linktr.ee/discerning_dadGet my new FREE 14 day discernment devotional, Eyes on Jesus, by going to eyesonjesusdevotional.comYou can purchase my book this podcast is based on, Everyday Discernment: The Importance of Spirit-led decision making, by clicking https://kingdomwinds.com/everyday-discernment/Get your discernment SWAG here- https://shop.spreadshirt.com/discerning-dadNEW- exclusive podcast, Eyes on Jesus, for Patreon supporters!  Go to https://www.patreon.com/DiscerningdadFeel free to email me any questions or comments.  I'm also looking to help mentor anyone who wants to start a podcast, send me a message for more info at discerningdad@outlook.com