God can give your marriage POWER!

Marriage is awesome and not easy all at the same time. I've heard the phrase "it takes two to make a marriage work." Well, I disagree. I think it takes THREE. Husband, wife AND God. Ask God to be part of your union, household and decision-making and you will see a difference right away. Author, Tiffany Fletcher, seems to agree. In her article below, she attributes PRAYER to having a successful and blissful marriage. Read her top (9) things to pray for within your marriage and be encouraged!

1) God's Guidance:  

God knows you and your spouse's heart and desires. He knows your strengths and weaknesses. He knows what you NEED and He knows how to motivate you. God has all this knowledge and wants to bless you and your spouse. Invite God IN and ask for His will and guidance. His love will strengthen your love for each other as well as draw you closer to Jesus.

Proverbs 16:9 teaches us, "A man's heart devises his way, but the LORD directs his steps."

 

2) An Increase of Strength:

 Did you know God doesn't expect us to have the strength to handle everything on our own? But isn't it crazy how many times we try to solve a problem on our own or stuff the pain to rise above a situation? Pray for God's strength to be part of your marriage. He will give you the power and courage and stamina to carry on.

2 Samuel 22:33 teaches us, "God is my strength and power, and He makes my way perfect."

 

3) An Understanding Heart: 

Communication is key. And more than just communicating - it's HOW we communicate that counts, too. I love this scripture below - be quick to listen and slow to speak. Maybe that's why we have 2 ears and yet only 1 mouth. Ask God to help you listen more (and better) and to give you a heart of understanding toward your spouse.

James 1:19 teaches us, "So, then, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger."

 

4) Wisdom:  

Having wisdom and good judgement are not one in the same. We, as humans, are making judgements all the time - whether we realize it or not. As in marriage, it's very important to collect all of the facts before making a judgement call. Remain humble as you communicate with each other and open to hear all sides.

Psalm 25:9 teaches us, "He will guide the humble in justice. He will teach the humble His way."

 

5) A Spirit of Peace:  

I guess the opposite of a peacemaker would be a "troublemaker." We all know people like that. Or as I also call them "pot-stirrers." Ask God to soften your heart and to live as one seeking peace. Peace in your home, in your marriage, among your children, among your neighbors and co-workers. Be the light of God - without boasting and without correcting those around you - and you will know God's peace!

Matthew 5:9 teaches us, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God."

 

6) A Disposition to See Good:  

Have you ever heard the phrase "Is the glass half empty or half full?" Well, that's what it means to have a disposition to see good. I'm a 'glass is half full' girl and it carries over in to all areas of my life. Pray for God to give you new eyes - to see the good in others - rather than their faults. You'll be blessed by this new vision - I promise!

Matthew 5:8 teaches us, "Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God."

 

7) An Attitude of Gratitude:  

Everyone loves to hear a 'thank you' for whatever they have done. And so do our spouses. Pray to God for the gift of gratitude. And pray to show gratitude for who they are -  not just what they do for you. This will strengthen your marriage for years to come.

Psalm 118: 24 teaches us, "This is the day which the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."

8) A Willingness to Forgive:  

As I said earlier, it takes 3 to make a marriage work, but in this area, it only takes 2. You both must recognize you do some things well and some other things not so good. And that's OK. Pray for a forgiving heart - pray to be forgiven. And, learn to laugh some stuff off...chances are we tend to hold on to some pretty goofy stuff.

Matthew 6:14 teaches us, "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you."

 

9) The Capacity to Love:  

God is love. To know God is to KNOW love. So go to the master at loving people (especially when we're not very lovable). Pray for your heart, mind, soul, spirit, words and touch to all show love toward your spouse. Love is the glue that keeps a healthy marriage together.

1 Corinthians 13:4 teaches us, "Love is patient and is kind; love doesn't envy. Love doesn't brag, is not proud."

 

For more words of inspiration, click here! 

HT FamilyShare

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