Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“What the world needs now is love, sweet love…” It’s true, unfortunately love has become something we must inherently search for as the hate and anger in the world has moved to the forefront. Our neighbors, relatives, and whole communities have experienced division due to differences in opinion, an attitude of offense, and a lack of unity and love. Now more than ever, we must invite God into our marriages and homes as the model of His love, grace, and acceptance. May people look at your marriage and see something not of this world.
From the very beginning, God appointed marriage and family as foundational for a God-honoring society. A Godly marriage is called to be an inspiration to a watching world as it reflects the love and grace of Christ and His relationship with His beautiful bride.
The key is found in the words of Jesus: “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. So they are no longer two but one.” (Matt. 19:6, Emphasis added.) Marriage is so much more than cohabiting and sharing rent. It is a divine union appointed by God to demonstrate sacrificial love.
The enemy constantly plots to divide our marriages, often by inciting an attitude of offense.
Rather than letting the enemy score a victory, let this be your starting point. The husband and wife are on the same team, God’s team, each seeking the best for each other. Jesus has given us an antidote for offense, love, and love covers a multitude of sins.
Here is the experience of a woman who recently discovered the joy of living a life of love through our on-line Hidden Heart Study.
“This study really ministered to me. It challenged me to keep the standard of love and honor high for my own heart before jumping to defense of myself or criticism of my husband. It encouraged me to dream God’s best for my marriage and have confidence that God is FOR us.” – anonymous young married.
In what way can you begin to dream God’s best for your marriage? Come join us to discover how!
Below is a screen shot an online “Cry of the Hidden Heart” study groups. New studies are starting soon. Please contact me at Shannon [@] livinghopelegacy.org or 314.858.6029 to join the next Hidden Heart Impact Group.
