Sometimes I Cringe When I Hear “Marriage is not supposed to make you happy. It’s designed to make you holy.”
That doesn’t mean I totally disagree with the statements, but I would like to add a caveat. And it is this: Marriage – done well by two folks who love each other could result is moving toward happiness AND holiness.
Let me explain. The foundation of Christ-centered marriage is the love of God. Agreed? So then, why couldn’t that sweet love of God make us happy people, thrilled to be in a relationship/friendship.? In a similar way, couldn’t that same God lead us to holiness where we live to please Him and enjoy our relationship with Him? At the same time, couldn’t our relationship with Him bring us contentment and focus on His will for our life?
When two people grow up (mature) and are conformed to the image of Christ, love happens and so does holiness.
Let me ask you to do three simple things in the days ahead.
- Think and write your thoughts about what you want your relationship to be.
- Pray and ask God what He wants the relationship (marriage, parent-child, friendship, etc.)
- Begin to pray this passage over your relationship and ask God to grow your faith. Pray: I John 5:14-15
- I guess you’d have to be convinced that is it God’s will for you to enjoy your loving relationship at least more than before or in the way He designed it to be and to be holy (more like Jesus) along the way.
I have recently discovered how lazy I had become. I began to think that Carol and I could just coast on out. Married 51, almost 52 years. Having a really good relationship – not perfect but really good. Teaching others these principles in many environments. Then I woke up to realize that I had become lazy physically, spiritually, and relationally. I needed to move; get up and move. So, I asked my Father for help- I prayed, and now I am moving – exercising (nothing too radical but much better than nothing). I am trying to give Jesus more of my thinking, praying, and exploring time. I am also focusing more on my relationships at home and with friends.
Things are better!! Join me?
Recapture God’s vision for your life, your marriage, your family, and your service and calling!