Hope is so vital for any relationship, especially a marriage. God invented it and His word is full of treasure on the topic:
1. From the moment I accept the call to become a follower of Christ, I will grow into a oneness with Him. It’s like a heart, soul and mind-meld with Almighty God; a getting His Spirit all mixed up in my own. amazingly like marriage which begins with belief and trust in another human to the point that I let down all your guards, allowing myself to know and be known. Incredibly vulnerable, but mysteriously unifying.
2. As I am encouraged to daily learn all I can. Read God’s Word, and spend time alone talking with Him keeps my mind meditating on His good qualities and attributes.It comes naturally. Learning more about Him makes me fall more in love. Sounds exactly like my dating and engagement period with my husband. I could not get enough.
3. Another step in spiritual growth is opening myself up to change. Jesus challenges me to throw off my old self and take up a new identity… Him. Successful marriage requires becoming something new as well. I give up my all-about-me attitude and adopt a new all-about-us mentality. Even better, is a how-can-I-better-love-you spirit. A radical idea. No wonder Jesus said, “…But if you’re capable of growing into the largeness of marriage, do it.” Matthew 19:12 msg
4. Get involved in fellowship and serving with other believers. Putting myself in a place with like-minded folks encourages growth. Every couple needs this as well. When the road gets rough, godly friends will encouraging me to stand with my husband and keep fighting for what’s important. I appreciate all the help I can… being selfless is not easy.
5. My favorite: God is my amazing hope, even when I have none. He’s proven Himself to me by loving me, forgiving me, and lavishing me with grace. He’s promised He will never leave me or forsake me and that Jesus is really coming back to take me home with Him for all eternity! In my marriage, my husband and I share the same faith. Each offering hope when the other has none. A support to believe that things will work out for good and God’s glory. Also a dependance on each other for prayer and comfort.
6. Lastly, I’m offered this amazing connection with God, to then go and share my joy with others. In the same way, the special oneness God has given me with my husband matters. My marriage has a spiritual impact. It is a constant living example of His union with the church through Christ our Savior. And an amazing way for His light to shine in a dark world.
Be the light!
ForGlorySake! -Anna
