God meant for marriage to be a joyous and supportive relationship
Published 8:06 am Friday, June 16, 2023
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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Dear Rev. Graham: After 25 years, my husband and I are calling it quits. Our children are grown and our home is empty and unfulfilled. We’re both ready to invest time in our careers and develop other friendships that aren’t so oppressive. We’ll always love each other, but it’s no longer enough. Why do some say this is wrong? – O.M.
Dear O.M.: God meant for marriage to be a joyous and supportive relationship. It’s not easy to heal a marriage (or any relationship) that has almost fallen apart, but God is ready to help and strengthen each heart that desires to honor him. If a man and woman together seek counsel from Scripture, God will give them courage to do the hard work of rebuilding the marriage and exhibiting patience toward one another.
Marriage is a commitment – a vow – to help one another. It’s worth the effort. Couples grow closer if they go before the Lord together. He can restore communication that’s been lacking for so long. A good marriage isn’t made up of two, but three: the husband, the wife, and God. When Christ is the foundation of marriage, He gives understanding of what true love is, and that brings unspeakable joy not only to the relationship, but also to the home, which is a vital part of living together in a way that brings glory to God.
We often take so little time to show love in practical ways. We must learn to praise instead of criticize. Help instead of hurt. Smile instead of sulk. Most of all bring everything to God in prayer and seek His will, because God is interested in family, marriage, and building strong homes. These are sacred, and faith in Christ is the most important of all principles in the building of a successful marriage and home.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)