October 14th

God's Road to a Happy Marriage

For God so loved the world that He gave... John 3:16

We all know that marriage takes work, but I wonder sometimes if we let that convince us that marriage can't be enjoyable.

Hurts and wounds have a way of making us believe lies, and lies have a way of destroying our relationships by making us stop pursuing the best in and with our spouses. But God has a better way that helps us to return to real love, a love that is spelled G-I-V-E.

When we get hurt, then we pull back instinctively. When we pull back, then we stop giving. And when we stop giving, then we begin the death process for our relationships.

The first step we need is forgiveness. Forgive your spouse for the hurts you have suffered and the way they have failed to meet your expectations. Forgive yourself for the monster you have at times been to your spouse.

Step two is to stop making excuses, as though it was your spouse's fault that you can't love them.

Excuse number one: If we could just talk, then we could love each other, but he won't talk to me. Even if you could talk like angels talk, it would be nothing without love. Start with love, then start talking.

Excuse number two: I just don't understand her. Even if you were able to explain all the mysteries of each other's hearts, it would be worthless without love. Start with love, then keep plugging away at understanding.

Excuse number three: Our marriage needs more faith. His relationship with God just isn't what it used to be. Well, that's a problem, but love is more important. Drag your spouse to church all you want, but it will get you nowhere if you do not love them.

Excuse number four: She just doesn't value how hard I work for the family. All that work leads to something called burnout, and it does you no good if you aren't making love a priority.

Love. It's spelled G-I-V-E. Give to your spouse what is appropriately due them, especially in the area of physical affection. Forgive each other for past mistakes, and leave the excuses behind.

If you will do these things, then I promise you that your marriage will be rock solid and more fulfilling than ever before.

Prayer Lord Jesus,

Thank You for redemption! My marriage has gone through a lot and we need Your help to build it back to where it should be. I choose to forgive my spouse and stop making excuses. I choose to love, and ask for Your mercy, grace, and peace to fill our home as we rebuild our marriage.

Amen