God’s word remains the only authentic manual for living a fruitful married life and indeed every other aspect of our lives
Marriage is not meant to be lived without God. How do you get God involved in your marriage except by finding out of His word says in every different aspect?
The issue of forgiveness is very crucial in marriage. We must guide ourselves on how to handle hurts and offenses such that they don’t degenerate into bitterness and finally get to a point where your spirit is closed against your spouse.
Marriage is a union that is meant to multiply our strength. One is meant to chase a thousand and two of us in marriage put ten thousand to flight.
Yet marriage is the place where most offenses occur, mostly because of temperamental differences, background differences, and male/ female differences.
Pressures of different sorts occur in marriage. Unmet expectations, challenges, and changes happen in marriage and all these cause the very foundation of our marriage to be shaken. Arming ourselves with the right knowledge and getting the strength to help us navigate this aspect of our marital journey is very important.
That hurts will not come is living in a fool’s paradise. Let’s look at what God’s word says
2 Cor 6:3 Giving no offence in anything, … We are to make sure we are not easily offended. Don’t easily be offended. Grow a thick skin to being offended. Holding offenses is not even good for our health.
Learn to let go quickly. I know it is not an easy pill to swallow. I also know, that depending on the magnitude of the offense, it becomes really hard to let go. Yet God’s word must be obeyed.
Matt 18:7 Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!
Offenses MUST come. This is a reality in marriage. We are not expecting it but we are armed with how to handle offenses quickly when they show up.
I think that is a fair way to live.
Let’s look at what God’s word has to say about forgiveness
Matt 6:15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses
If we don’t forgive from our hearts, we stand the risk of having God holding our shortcomings against us. We are always in need of the mercy of God. So one of the reasons we forgive our spouse is because we also offend God in so many ways and want Him to forgive us. God counts it sheer wickedness, if we want God to forgive us and yet we withhold mercy from our covenant partner. Forgiveness is a show of Mercy that we give to the offender. When we show mercy to others we will also receive mercy.
I will stop here this morning. It is my prayer that God will grant us the Grace to forgive each other in marriage in Jesus’ mighty name.
In the quest for love and companionship, navigating the complex terrain of relationships demands both wisdom and discernment. As you embark on this journey, it’s crucial to remember that some questions don’t require divine intervention, and certain situations can be approached with the clarity that comes from understanding God’s principles.
Embracing God’s Order in Relationships
God designed us with intellect, entrusting us with the capacity to think for ourselves. In addition to endowing us with cognitive abilities, He provided guidance through His Word. His principles, clearly outlined in scripture, serve as a road map for our lives, particularly when it comes to relationships and marriage.
Seeking God’s Direction
In the pursuit of a life partner, seeking God’s direction is a common practice. However, there are aspects where God’s guidance is unnecessary because He has already provided answers in His Word. As a single individual preparing for marriage, it’s essential to recognize that not everyone is a suitable match. Some individuals are best avoided, and falling in love with them goes against the wisdom found in God’s teachings.
Avoiding Pitfalls
The Scriptures explicitly caution against falling in love with certain individuals. This isn’t merely a suggestion but a clear directive to protect us from heartache and undesirable consequences.
Identifying the Wrong Person
One key aspect emphasized is avoiding a romantic connection with a God-hater. The message is simple: do not enter into a relationship with someone who rejects God. This principle is reiterated in 2 Corinthians 6:14, emphasizing the incongruity of a partnership between light and darkness.
Deceptive Appearances
It’s crucial to recognize that a God-hater may appear pleasant and even possess material wealth. However, the Scriptures warn that such prosperity can lead to their downfall. Proverbs 1:32 underscores the peril of turning away from simplicity and the destructive nature of fool’s prosperity.
Prioritizing Spiritual Compatibility
Before succumbing to emotions and hormones, it’s imperative to consider the spiritual aspect of a potential partner. The scriptures affirm that genuine love stems from a knowledge of God, and anything professing to be love without this foundation is often mere lust.
Breaking Free from Unhealthy Attachments
For those who may find themselves entangled with someone who doesn’t share their faith, the advice is clear: get out of that love. Proverbs 6:5 urges individuals to deliver themselves from the hands of those who may lead them astray.
Already Married?
If you find yourself already married and sensing that you may have missed the mark in certain aspects, it’s crucial to approach the situation with wisdom and deliberation. In times of uncertainty, seeking counsel becomes a valuable resource, providing clarity and guidance to navigate the complexities of marriage.
Assessing Changes in Marriage
Marriage is a journey marked by growth, change, and challenges. The presence of changes does not necessarily indicate that a mistake has been made. It’s important to resist the temptation to make hasty decisions based on common challenges inherent to all marriages.
The Importance of Counsel
In moments of doubt or when facing marital difficulties, seeking counsel is a prudent course of action. Counsel offers an external perspective, often bringing insights that may not be apparent in the midst of challenges. Taking the time to consult with a trusted advisor can illuminate the path forward.
Avoiding Rash Decisions
Rash decisions made in the heat of challenges can have lasting consequences. Seeking counsel provides a buffer against impulsive actions that may not align with long-term goals for the marriage. A knowledgeable advisor can help you navigate challenges with a level-headed approach.
Understanding Common Marital Challenges
Marriage is a shared journey, and challenges are a natural part of the process. It’s essential to recognize that many couples face similar issues, and seeking counsel doesn’t imply failure but rather a commitment to growth and improvement.
Remember, the journey of marriage is dynamic, and seeking counsel is not a sign of weakness but a proactive measure to ensure a thriving and resilient relationship.
God’s Word as the Panacea to Your Love Life: Part 3
We started on this topic some days ago We will conclude today.
God’s word, a timeless source of wisdom, serves as a panacea for the challenges faced in love and companionship. Let’s delve into more transformative power of God’s word in various aspects of life.
6. Regulation and Maintenance
Following the principles of God, as revealed in His word, plays a pivotal role in regulating and maintaining relationships. These principles act as a steady anchor amid the chaotic waves of marital life, providing stability and resilience.
7. Attaining Peace of Mind
God’s word is a source of peace that transcends understanding. It calms the storms within relationships, shielding couples from the temptation to cheat. Embracing these principles fosters satisfaction and protects against the pitfalls set by external forces.
8. Parenting through God’s Word
Raising children in the ways of God ensures they stay grounded in righteous principles as they grow. Shielding them from the overwhelming peer pressure prevalent in today’s society, and imparting godly wisdom safeguards their destinies.
9. Renewing the Mind for Personal Growth
God’s word serves as a transformative force, breaking the chains of ingrained habits and lifting individuals from the depths of despair to the mountaintop of personal growth. Romans 12:2 reminds us of the power of renewal through God’s word. And be not conformed to this world:but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:2 KJV)
10. Knowing Your Rights in God
Understanding and claiming your rights in God is paramount. It empowers individuals to demand the best in relationships, marriages, and homes. The victory over sin, lack, and health issues is assured through the profound truths revealed in God’s word.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a deep dive into God’s word unveils a reservoir of blessings, guidance, and transformative power for individuals, couples, and families. As we study and apply these principles, may understanding abound, and every undesirable element in our lives be uprooted.
There is one truth I want to drive in this morning! Whether single or married, this truth will be helpful for you!
The devil’s attempt is always to limit us by what we see. But the scripture is clear on what we are to do regarding that! See it below:
2Co 4:17-18 (KJV) For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; [18] While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
This One Too Shall Pass
First of all, it says our affliction is light! It is not heavy enough to kill us. God is not a taskmaster and He would not allow us to be tempted beyond our strength!
He allows tests and trials, not to kill us but to work for us eventually.
But then there is an instruction in the above verse. Do not look at those things that are disturbing you. Please don’t focus on them. There is no need for your BP to rise!
Don’t give mental consideration and acceptance to the issues you are facing. Why?
They are temporal! Glory to God. They are not eternal. They do not have a forever status! They are transient and they shall pass. That is why I like the phrase “And it came to pass”
This One Too Shall Pass
Whatever it is, my dear, that one shall pass too
Those issues that were like life and death issues some five or ten years ago, where are they now? They passed. This one too will pass!
Who then do you focus on? Focus on God and His Word. Judge Him faithful. Meditate on His goodness always and you will experience that goodness in your relationship or marriage. Good morning!
Investing in your marriage is an intentional practice that takes time, effort, attention, and patience. Here are some helpful tips.
1. Respect each other
Know that you are both adults each having something unique to contribute to the marriage. Show Mutual respect for each other’s opinions. This becomes very beneficial.
2. Appreciate each other
Show and express your gratitude for each other’s efforts, and contribute to the marriage. It is true that a tree doesn’t make a forest.
3. Spend Time together
A couple that doesn’t spend quality time together grows apart. You could be together and not be available for each other. Do activities that connect you together physically, emotionally, intellectually etc
4. Talk with each other
Regularly talk and listen to each other’s thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Listen as much as you talk. I guess that is why God gave us two ears and one mouth.
5. Feel for each other
Can you feel your spouse? That’s why the Bible says we should be tenderhearted to one another. Try and understand each other’s perspectives and emotions.
6. Address issues and Conflicts
Problems, issues, and conflicts are meant to be solved. Address them calmly and work together to find solutions to them.
7. Stay intimate with each other
Physical and emotional intimacy should not be compromised. Keep the marriage bond strong. Stay intimate emotionally, more importantly, as a foundation for physical intimacy.
8. Continual learning
Knowledge improves our lives both as individuals and as a couple. Invest in your growth by continual learning. Stagnant water stinks. Don’t let your marriage stink.
9. Pray together
Couples that pray together stay together. Marriage is more spiritual than physical. So spend time talking to God together about every detail of your marital lives.
10. Support Each Other
Be each other’s greatest fan. Priorities each other above any other one. Be your spouse’s greatest supporter in your own unique way. Be there for each other and don’t be too busy to show up when needed.
