Greetings Prayer Warriors,
Nothing is better than the fear of the Lord, nothing sweeter than obeying the commandments of the Lord. Sirach 23:27
So be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, as Christ loved us and handed himself over for us as a sacrificial offering to God for a fragrant aroma. Ephesians 5:1-2
Summarized, obedience and sacrifice in imitation of Christ are sweet and fragrant to the Lord! Sounds simple enough! Yet it's so counter cultural, that it’s anathema to several generations. Perhaps that is why so many couples avoid marriage, because they don’t have the courage and fortitude to live in obedience to Christ and sacrifice for the good of the other, which is the foundation of Holy Matrimony.
Not picking on the unmarried though, as even those united in matrimony can be obstinate. Anyone married for any length of time knows all too well that marriage is a training ground for continuous sacrifices. Yet, ask yourself, are you making them into sacrificial offerings, uplifting your spouse and glorifying God? Or are you sacrificing by default and complaining about it??
Leave the resistance and instead lead the charge!
As you enter into Lent, ask the Lord to show you where in your marriage you need to become more obedient to his commandment and more sacrificial for your spouse? Pray for a mind open to discern your sinfulness, an ear to hear God’s voice, a heart softened to give and receive, the courage to act with boldness, and a memory that always reminds you to pray for marriages, especially those of your fellow warriors!
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
A holy marriage is only the result of copious prayers. Pray continuously! Pass it on!
