Christian Marriage Archives | Page 23 of 41

October 9, 2018

Solving the Problem

Women can be confusing.
I’m the first to admit that.

We’re also irresistible.
That is by the Creator’s design.

So when things aren’t going well, understanding the problem is key.
Otherwise, you’ll try using a hammer where a screwdriver is needed.

* * * * * * *

Before & After

If you notice some character issues, as narcissism, borderline tendencies, before you are married, you still have the option to move on.
After you have married, however, you must partner with the Holy Spirit to bring healing & growth to her.

And the first thing He will teach you is how He sees the problem.

* * * * * * *

The Bottom Line

Make sure that how you “understand” the problem
doesn’t become a whole new problem.

Because character issues require very different tools than used for PTSD or for her natural tendency to worry. So make sure you know the difference!

July 7, 2017July 7, 2017

Vulnerable & Powerful

Christian Marriage is the most vulnerable and can be the most powerful human relationship in the clash between two kingdoms. And it is essential to know what the fight is really about.

Couples often tell me about bad experiences in previous tries at marriage counseling. Even once would be too many. But it happens a lot. A counselor decides which spouse is “right” and takes that position against the other.

Was it intentional?
Is that what really happened?
Or was it just one person’s perception of feeling ganged-up on?

Truth is, it could be any one of those possibilities. We all have a tendency to see life from our own perspective. After all, it’s the only point of view we have! But it’s not the only point of view.

Most marriage counseling fails because it fails to consider God’s point of view.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

July 6, 2017October 25, 2018

The Movie Version

If you’ve read The Book, you know Who wins. But during your time here on earth, you’re being directed in the Movie Version. No one can play your part except you. So who is directing you?

The Lord says you belong to him. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
The enemy says you belong to no one. Do what you please.

The Lord wants to make you over in His Image. (Genesis 1:26)
The enemy wants to make you over into his.

The Lord says you are one flesh in marriage. (Ephesians 5:31)
The enemy says it doesn’t matter. Just move on if you don’t get what you want.

The Lord says a woman was created for her husband. (1 Corinthians 11:9)
The enemy says the man is just a paycheck and slave labor for his wife.

The Lord says a man’s job is to love and protect his wife. (Ephesians 5:25-30)
The enemy says the man should look out only for himself.

QUESTION: So who is directing your thoughts and feelings and actions? On a scale of 1 (low) to 10 (high), how would you rate your ability to distinguish who is directing your life movie? Is it The Lord … or is it someone else?