Relationship tips (2)

Marriage was God's idea... way before anyone thought of chucking rose petals at a happy couple. To him, marriage is a foundational rock of his earthly Kingdom. When we're committed to a spouse, our marriage is a celebration to God.

However: God's foundational plan tends to be a prime target for Satan. Notice how in Adam and Eve's relationship, Satan didn't just separate them from God (major in itself), but twisted their perspective, and divided them from each other (Genesis 3:12). Lies, suspicion and a whole pile of blaming are among Satan's tactics to divide 'what God has joined together' (Mark 10:9 NIV).

All our relationships, especially marriage, will be subject to the same threats from 'the father of lies' (John 8:44 NLT). But note that God has an antidote. Notice how easy it is to recall that time our partner hurt us? Do we keep a subconscious tab of our partner's flaws/failings? Are they really the problem, and are we completely justified in not showing them grace? God says 'love...keeps no record of wrongs' (1 Corinthians 13:4-5 NIV) And also: 'I have forgiven in the sight of Christ...in order that Satan might not outwit us...we are not unaware of his schemes' (2 Corinthians 2:10-11 NIV). This doesn't mean love lives in denial. But it regularly denies the 'self', putting the other first. And nothing melts resentment like appreciation.



So what now? If you've a special someone, think of something you appreciate about them, and tell them. This works equally well with other family and friends.





— SCRIPTURE —

'Love...keeps no record of wrongs.' 1 Corinthians 13:4 NIV
— SOULFOOD —

1 Cor 15, Matt 3:1-6, Ps 116, Pro 31:30