Marriage defense 101

When I think back to the beginning of my dating life, and the beginning years of my marriage, I shudder at how immature I was and how poorly I handled a lot of situations.

Through all of them there was one commonality, selfishness and expectation.

I expected everything to be centered around me. My wants. My needs. Me. Me. Me.

I constantly had the thought in my head that if I just “gave enough” I’d “get enough”. I’d get back all that I put in. This way of thinking pretty much ended up with a lot of disappointment for many, many years.

Then something happened that changed everything….my soul awoke!

I had such a deep encounter with Jesus that I wanted to know Him. I wanted to know how He whispered to people’s souls. How He, first and foremost, came to serve others.

Boy oh boy did I learn a lot!

Here are some ways Jesus has guided me and can guide you:

Prioritize Love and Compassion

"Love one another as I have loved you" (John 13:34): Jesus' love is unconditional and sacrificial. Show this same love to your spouse, prioritizing their well-being and fostering a spirit of compassion and understanding in your marriage.

Forgive and Seek Reconciliation

"Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matthew 6:12): Forgiveness is central to Jesus' teachings. When conflicts arise, seek to forgive and reconcile, mirroring Jesus' grace and mercy.

Communicate Honestly and Kindly

"Let your yes be yes, and your no be no" (Matthew 5:37): Honest and open communication is vital. Speak truthfully but with kindness and respect, avoiding harsh words that can hurt your spouse.

Practice Humility and Service

"The greatest among you will be your servant" (Matthew 23:11): Approach your marriage with a heart of service and humility. Serve each other selflessly, putting your spouse's needs above your own.

 Seek Guidance and Prayer

"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find" (Matthew 7:7): Regularly pray for your marriage, seeking God's guidance and wisdom. Invite Jesus into your relationship, trusting Him to lead and strengthen your bond.

Build on a Strong Foundation

"Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock" (Matthew 7:24): Ground your marriage in faith, making Jesus the cornerstone. Attend church together, study the Bible, and engage in spiritual practices that reinforce your commitment to each other and to God.

Demonstrate Patience and Perseverance

"Love is patient, love is kind" (1 Corinthians 13:4): Be patient and steadfast in your love. Marriage involves enduring challenges, and a Christ-like love remains patient and kind through difficulties.

Jesus' teachings have helped me defend my marriage. When I continually tap into His strength and wisdom our marriage continues to be more resilient, loving, and grounded in faith every day.

Until next time, stay Anchored in Love & Guided by King!

Perfectly Imperfect,

Sam & Ron