STRENGTHEN YOUR MARRIAGE
by R.J. Evans
On Wednesday evenings in our adult Bible class we have been studying the various stages of life. At this writing, we are giving attention to the very important subject of Marriage. In our class, we have been discussing some challenges of marriage. One main lesson gained from these challenges emphasizes the importance of getting to know each other as much as possible before entering into this lifetime commitment. We are also taking note of what the Bible teaches as a guide for our marriages. We are discussing five major points: (1) Husbands are to love their wives as their own bodies — Eph. 5:28-29; (2) Wives are to submit to their own husbands as to the Lord — Eph. 5:22-24; (3) Husbands and wives are not to deprive one another of their due affection — 1 Cor. 7:3-5; (4) Wives are to respect their husbands; husbands are to honor their wives — 1 Pet. 3:7; Eph. 5:33; (5) Marriage is for life — “as long as he lives” — Rom. 7:2.
If you’re married,
be sure to think in terms of strengthening, cultivating and preserving your marriage. If you’re not married, recognize the sanctity and permanence of the marriage of a man and woman, and be well prepared for this God-ordained union.
For those married couples who have children, please be reminded that the best gifts you can give them is to fervently love the Lord with all your heart, and love each other unreservedly. Your children will find security in your love for each other, but remember it was with your spouse that you exchanged vows. Children are a gift from God who have been entrusted to your care for approximately twenty years. So plan to be happy together and close to each other, as your children will be gone before you know it.
Don’t make your marriage all about your children’s or grandchildren’s activities. Give them all the love, care, attention and time that they need—but not at the expense of neglecting your relationship to each other as husband and wife. Love, honor, and serve your husband or wife. Spend most of your spare time with your spouse. Go places together; do things together. Put Christ in the center of your life and conversation. Thank Him together for His goodness and kindness.
Jackie and I will celebrate our 47th anniversary this coming October 8th. We are so thankful and grateful for each other and for our two sons. We have always been each other’s best friend, and love and trust each other now more than ever.
In this present culture of selfishness and immorality, strengthen, cultivate and preserve your marriage. God will be exalted and honored, and your children and grandchildren will be grateful. May God bless your marriage!