Sacred Marriage
The subtitle of this book says a lot …
“what if God designed marriage to make us holy more than to make us happy …”
I’ve been reading this book and it’s been awesome. Am I “unhappy” with my marriage? No way. Stressed and frustrated at times? Show me a spouse who says “no” to that and I’ll show you someone who must not have gotten married.
Seriously, I love my wife (Joy) so much. She’s awesome, and I’m so much more blessed than I deserve. At the same time, I’m a long way from being the husband I desire to be for her. I wrote a song for Joy when we were married - and in the 2nd verse the lyrics say “and now I understand that I must be the Godly man that He ordained for you …”. As I evaluate myself I only see a lot of selfishness and pride.
So, I see this book in our church library - Gary Thomas (the author) has been at our church before and he was great - I just never purchased his book until recently. He’s got lots of books, but this one has been great. It talks about some of the difficulties, compromises, and trials that come with marriage. (you single folks reading this are saying “yeah, right”). More importantly, it challenges us to use these to make us more “holy” - more like God.
I’ve sensed a new attitude in how I approach different conflicts and communication gaps in my own marriage. Ya know, with a long work day, 3 kids, a 4th on the way (yep - in May, we’ll have 4 kids that are 5-years old and younger) … it’s possible to have an environment where stress, frustration, and conflict can arise. Gratefully, Joy and I are always able to work through these trials. I’m a blessed, happy man.
I don’t post this entry to try and say “help - marriage in trouble” … far from it - I post this to encourage those who read - checkout the book … or ponder the thought - marriage can help us become more holy. Isn’t that what God requires … “you shall be holy as I am holy”.
God bless our spouses!
For the Kingdom,
Fred