We are still continuing our series, how couples can handle stress in marriage. We have looked at different stressors and if handled well will never be a source of strain on our marital union.

Today, I will be addressing the issue of:

5. Not minding our business.

As easy as this may be for some of us by virtue of our background. It’s so difficult for some of us to simply mind our business.

It is interesting to know that every way we should live our lives as Christian couples is already addressed on the bible, either directly or indirectly.

The bible didn’t mince words when it told us not to be busybodies but to mind our own business.

Yet we hear that some of you are living idle lives, refusing to work and meddling in other people’s business. We command such people and urge them in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and work to earn their own living. 2 Thessalonians 3:11 – 12 NLT

For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. 2 Thessalonians 3:11 KJV

And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not. 1 Timothy 5:13

But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters. 1 Peter 4:15 KJV

From the above scriptures, we can infer that those who are busybodies are idle not being productive with their time and that there is suffering meant for whoever practices being a busy body.

As a married person, you should have enough on your plate. Bills to pay, children to look after, spouse to take care of, a home to tend, prayers for your destiny to pray, self-development, business to start or improve, etc.

As couples, you should have enough to keep you busy. Just find work for yourself. An idle hand is the devils workshop.

It’s when you are not minding your business that you begin to give unsolicited advice, visit places you are not celebrated or wanted, gossip, and eventually bring undue curses over your life.

You leave your own issue and begin to dance around other people’s issues. You dissipate your energy, strength, and your focus. You become distracted with other people’s matters that you are not graced to solve.

You even become a judge over other peoples affairs that is none of your business.

You leave your home, children and spouse exposed while you busy yourself with issues that don’t concern you.

Desist from doing this and you will be focused on the home and marriage God has given you. You will also have greatly minimize stress in marriage.

6. Not being able to say ‘No’.

‘No’ is not a weak word neither does it show a sign of weakness or cowardice. It only means you are courageous enough to face the fact about your limitations.

Some people simply cannot say No. They lack the sense of judgement to differentiate between what they can do and cannot do.

Learn to say No and don’t feel bad about it. Some people by not being able to say No have entered the trap of the enemy. Don’t be sentimental about issues.

As couples, learn to say No if what you are asked to do violates your conscience. You are not under any obligation to please anyone. You are only under obligations to please God.

Learn to place your priorities right. For example, no one comes before your spouse in words, thoughts, and actions. Put God above all else, your spouse, your children, and then any other person.

Let your Yea, be Yea and your Nay be Nay.

I will stop here for today. Tomorrow is another day to join me as we continue on this very imprortant topic for married couples.

May God grant us understanding and give us wisdom to avoid stress in marriage.

God bless our marriage

.

CONFESSION FOR THE DAY
I am a wise spouse. I know how to relate with people.

PRAYERS FOR THE DAY
Lord, give me wisdom

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
1 Peter  3:7  Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.

ACTION PLAN FOR THE DAY
Forgive where necessary

BIBLE READING FOR THE DAY
1 Pet 4