HOPE FOR THE HOME: The ABC's of spiritual maturity in marriage

Secrets of a Great Marriage: In a recent conversation with married couples, Becky and I were asked the usual question: “What is the secret of your marriage of over five decades?” Inspired by this discussion, we developed the “ABC's of Spiritual Maturity in Marriage.” This approach focuses on emphasizing positive qualities over negative ones. We will share a few each week until we have completed the alphabet.

Jerry: 1. Assurance Over Anxiety - "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God," Philippians 4:6. Often in the early years of marriage challenges arise which are anxiety producers. These interruptions are significant opportunities to learn the power of prayer and the faithfulness of God to meet our every need. If you can express a thankful heart that God is in control during the trying times, then you can certainly praise Him in the peaceful rhythms of marriage.

2. Boldness Over Burden - "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain help in time of need," Hebrews 4:16. Burdens of any nature are hard to bear; especially in a marriage. They increase the pressure and stress levels and frequently collapse the communication bridge. However, when an unexpected burden arises regardless of the source, you can boldly and confidently lay it at the feet of Jesus who sits on the throne of grace. Never hesitate to go to the Father and lay your burden down.

Becky: 3. Commitment Over Convenience - "Commit your works to the LORD and your thoughts will be established," Proverbs 16:3. Walking out may be more convenient than working it out, but this does not bring a solution to the problem.                                              Commitment is regularly sacrificed on the altar of convenience. Your “works” include your physical, mental, and spiritual actions. Your “thoughts” become your habits. Every area of your life must be committed first to Christ and secondly to your spouse.

4. Dedication Over Despair - "Then they faithfully brought in the offerings, the tithes, and the dedicated things..." II Chronicles 31:12. The lack of funds can take the fun out of marriage if your priorities are not in order. Dedication yields delight. And delight is the antidote for despair. In our 56 years of marriage, Jerry and I have dedicated ourselves to the discipline of tithing of our finances, time, and abilities. This dedication is a constant source of joy and nourishment both spiritually and physically. Even in seasons of financial shortage, God's well never runs dry.

Jerry and his wife Becky are on American Family Radio weekdays at 4:20 PM (CT) and on Sundays at 5:35 PM (CT). Check out their resources for the family at HopefortheHome.org. Becky’s latest book, “The Bright Side of Blue” and Dr. Drace’s, “44 Ways to Strengthen Your Marriage” offer biblical principles and timely advice for dealing with the challenges and trials of life. You may order these and other resources by contacting them at: hopeforthehome@juno.com.