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| Volume 20 Number 6 June 2018 | Page 16 |
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| Volume 20 Number 6 June 2018 | Page 16 |
Brett Petrillo
If any of the following situations happen in your life, please dial the appropriate numbers.
All numbers can be dialed directly. If as a Christian you need to speak with someone directly, please bow your head in prayer now. God is standing by.
Marriage God’s Way
Denny Petrillo
It is a fact that many marriages are in trouble today. It is also a fact that the Lord’s people are not immune from this kind of trouble. The sources of trouble are many. Couples argue over finances, children, parents, time together, time apart, priorities, sex and a host of other items.
God inspired Solomon to offer some valuable advice concerning marriage. He said, “Enjoy life with the woman whom you love all the days of your fleeting life which He has given to you under the sun; for this is your reward in life…” (Ecclesiastes 9:9). This verse seems to offer some valuable tips for a successful marriage. Note the following.
First, the verse shows that successful marriages require the giving of affection (“whom you love”). While we live in a world that believes in free love and no restrictions to sexual affection, often marriages lack the kind of intimacy God wants them to have. Paul had something to say about this in 1 Corinthians 7:3‑5.
Second, the verse shows that successful marriages require an active search for happiness (“enjoy life”). People need to focus more on making their mates happy rather than complaining that their mates do not give them happiness. What did Jesus mean when He said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35)? Could it be that the giver often receives more joy than the recipient?
Third, the verse shows that successful marriages require a lifelong commitment (“all the days of your fleeting life”). We live in a society that walks away from its problems rather than facing them. Jesus taught that what God has joined together ought not to be separated (Matthew 19:3‑6). Successful marriages have two who are willing to tough out the tough times.
We can all have successful marriages—as long as we are willing to adhere to inspired instruction! “Marriage God’s Way” pleases God and will be pleasing to the married, too.