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When Americans think about the good life, many think of what they are allowed to experience. They think of opportunities, fun, concerts, vacations, hobbies, friends, parties…(or solitude for the introverts.) What we think about less often is the good life; as in being good. What if the good life is a moral life, a righteous life or a holy life? And, what if a good life actually results in a good life?

“I get even…” You’ve probably heard that before, maybe you’ve said it. It’s often said with a tone of rightness, as if getting even is more virtuous than getting mad. Retaliation is as natural for a fallen human as eating a cookie. Our old nature is prone to it. But what about the new nature? Should retaliation be natural for the believer? Some might think it is evil to do nothing in response to evil.

“The husband is the head of the wife.” (Eph. 5:23) Some would consider that statement archaic. Others might think it is culturally inappropriate. There’s no doubt that men have abused their leadership and brought reproach upon the Word and the Church. On the other hand, where true headship is practiced, there is seldom a complaint.

One of the lies that the enemy likes to disseminate among people is that the Bible authors were down on women. He wants us to think that the writers of Scripture considered women inferior to men. He misuses the words “submit” and “reverence” taking them out of context in order to build his hideous case. The enemy, of course, hates the idea of submission.

The idea of “both-and” has many applications. For example, should our meals be delicious or nutritious? Or, should a car be comfortable or work well? Or, should Labor Day be fun or relaxing? The word “or” implies that the answer has to be one or the other. “Both-and” means that two things can be true at the same time.