Marriage
was designed by God in order for a man and a woman to appreciate the advantages
of each other's company.
The Bible is full of verses, which speak about the
benefits of two people sharing life together; and when we add Christ into the
equation, the three of us are not easily defeated (Genesis 2:18, 20; Ecclesiastes
4:9-12).
When a man
finds a wife, he opens up a whole world of benefits for himself and his future
family (Proverbs 18:22). Like puzzle pieces, we learn to fit together perfectly
and blend our two personalities to work as a team.
Our
individual strengths help to overcome the weaknesses in one another. We never
insist on our own way, but we talk out our issues until we find
a third plan, on which we can both agree.
This
prevents heated words, angry emotions and shredded feelings. If
both members prefer one another over themselves, there is no issue in any
relationship, which cannot be worked out.
Both
partners must really listen to one another and take each other seriously. Even
if the issue seems unimportant to us, it is important to our mate, so we should
take it seriously.
This
helps us not to over-react, because we know we are heard. It also allows us to gather
all the facts before forming conclusions (Proverbs 18:13).
If
we dwell together with understanding and prefer our mate over our self, then
love grows (1 Peter 3:7). When we make God the priority in our marriage, and worship
God and serve in a church together, our respect for one another increases.
Marriage
also helps us to increase our wealth by either both working at different jobs,
or by one staying home to frugally care for the house, children and family
errands.
We build
together rather than tearing each other down. Abiding by these
principles tends to resolve many marital issues before they ever start, and we
cherish and admire one another.
Prayer:
Father God
remind us that in our marriage, we do not complete one another. Only Christ in
us can truly complete us (Colossians 2:10). Neither do we compete with one
another.
Instead, we
complement each other. We provide wisdom in decisions, companionship, physical assistance,
and support for one another in body, soul and spirit.
Enable us
to see that the longer we are married, the more we feel comfortable with one
another, and we no longer feel the need to impress each other. We feel safe in
the confidence that we are loved and cherished. We relax, breath easily and
smile more often.
Remind us
to enjoy one another's company and to have fun together. Help us to understand
one another and like, as well as love each other. Especially prompt us not to
take one another for granted.
Thought
for the Day:
When God
gives us a mate to share our life with, we cherish, honor and protect one
another for an entire lifetime.
- Genesis 2:24
