A Happy Marriage
Someone wrote, “Many people think that the phrase ‘happy marriage’ is a contradiction of terms. Actually, there are only two problems in marriage: one is the husband; the other is the wife.”
Building a happy marriage requires that both partners to be focused on the Lord. It is only accomplished with their full cooperation; and is why it is so important to major on self-improvement. It is not our task to attempt a makeover of our spouse. Any remodeling projects should be directed at ourselves. Read 1 Peter 3:1-7 for evidence of this principle. First, avoid a nagging, critical spirit. Many have made a mess of their marriage with a continual assault of little digs. Complaining is a terrible and destructive habit. Grumbling will eventually produce the death of love. Second, keep yourself attractive. You may not be able to look like a movie star, but neither do you have to look like a slob. Third, encourage and compliment each other. Every person has an ego that needs to be stroked occasionally. Spouses should provide for this basic need. Fourth, talk things over. A lack of communication is at the root of almost all unhappy marriages. There is no other area of life where so little investment can pay such great dividends. Fifth, show common courtesies. Opening doors and saying “thank you” are little things but are important to a happy marriage. Sixth, pray for your spouse. Bringing your problems to the Ruler of the universe works to the benefit of your marriage. Marriages fail because people fail; and marriages fail because people try to live without God. Don’t try to change your spouse: leave that up to him or her and God!
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.
