Linda and I have been married for 21 years, since 1998. We grew up at Treasure Valley Baptist Church, and are thankful to be raising our own family now in a solid church. We have four children, three boys and one girl, ranging in ages from 18 to 8.  We have been through many ups and downs in 21 years, and the Lord has definitely taught us a few things over the years.  We have learned that marriage takes work and dedication.  The exciting feelings of the honeymoon do not last forever, but with constant communication and a commitment to make it work, God has brought us along to build our marriage.  It takes years and experience to make a marriage strong, and we thank God for all of the circumstances He has used in our life to help us to grow! 

Before teaching this class, my wife and I worked in the bus ministry for about 20 years, starting when we were in high school.  This ministry taught us so much about working together as a team, and getting our children involved in ministry as well.  Another major life experience that caused us to grow immensely as a couple and in our relationship with the Lord, was when I found out five years ago that I had a malignant brain tumor.  It was a long year of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.  But we can honestly say looking back that God had his hand in the whole thing.  He used it to grow our faith, and teach us to trust Him.  Our favorite verse throughout that ordeal was “Ah Lord God! behold, thou has made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee.” (Jeremiah 32:17)  

We are so thankful to be a part of this Newlyweds Sunday School class.  It is exciting to watch young couples with a desire to serve the Lord, and do right.  We look forward to the future as we watch God work and make Himself real in our group!