Marriage
is complex and at the same time awe inspiring; it is one of the biggest life
changing decisions a couple will ever make!
I
was asked a while back what would be my advice to a couple beginning their
marriage journey…
So
here are 7 things I believe newlyweds should keep in mind as they journey
together on this adventure called marriage!
#1.
Read, study and communicate openly about the book Love & Respect
This
is such an awesome book to read and a fantastic resource I suggest ever married
couple have readily available on their book shelf. Love and respect are some of
the key ingredients in a fruitful married (in my opinion) because everything
else flows from these two traits.
#2.
Take delight in serving your spouse
I
believe amazing marriages are made of 2 people who hold serving one another in
high esteem. Serving your spouse shouldn’t be viewed as an obligation, but as
an opportunity to put your love in action.
#3.
What happens in your marriage, stays in your marriage
All
too often couples get married and then allow others to come into their marriage
and cause havoc. Now that you are married it is important for you to protect
your union by keeping family and friends out of your business. Sure, there will
be times when you may need to confide in someone for advice, but please use
wisdom and pray first.
#4.
Never neglect your spouse for ministry work
This
is something that Christian couples often overlook. It is imperative to serve
God's people, but keep in mind that everything God does is in order. Neglecting
your spouse to go and serve at the church or in your community is not how God
wants things done. Always be mindful that charity starts at home (which is your
first ministry) and then spreads abroad.
#5.
Becoming one is a process
“…
and the two shall become one flesh. Genesis 2:24. The key word in this
scripture is become, it doesn't simply happen overnight, so be patient with
each other. It's going to take sacrifice and surrender all of which does not
come natural to any of us. Men and women are as different as day and night, so
becoming one flesh takes time.
#6.
Never stop dating
I
know this is a popular one, but it must be said. Wives don’t let those
butterflies dwindle. Remember how you use to prepare for date night? Picking
out the perfect outfit, wearing your best perfume and making sure you added a
bit extra just for him! Don’t ever stop that. Husbands remember how you just
couldn’t wait to see her next, remember how you made sure each rose was
flawless, remember how you got a fresh cut and cleaned up all nice and dapper
just for her! Don’t stop doing those things!
#7.
Keep your wedding vows
Whether
you made your own or you said the tradition vows. Be true to them in every way!
Today, divorce seems like the go to solution for a rough season in marriage,
but if you determine ahead of time and resolve in your mind and heart that no
matter what comes - you will keep your vows, divorce will never be an option in
the future for your marriage.
Let
me say this - marriage is HARD work and needs daily care, but keep in mind the
grass is always greener where you water it! Marriage will stretch you in ways
you never imagined and will lead you don’t paths you never thought you’d
travel, but through it all, it's a beautiful thing to learn, love and grow
together.
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