How To Have A Great Marriage!

"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her." - Ephesians 5:25

Heather and I have been married for over 30 years. Every single year has been a joy and blessings, and I say that sincerely. We laugh together, play together, dream and plan together, sit outside and read together.

Marriage is one of God's most precious gifts. When a husband and wife commit themselves to each other in the covenant of marriage before the Lord, it is a sacred bond that points to the love between Christ and his bride, the church. Just as Christ loved the church sacrificially, husbands are called to love their wives with a self-giving, servant-hearted love. Wives are called to respect and support their husbands. When both spouses strive to model their marriage after Christ's relationship with the church, it provides the foundation for a truly great marriage.

So what does a great Christian marriage look like?

It looks like two people walking hand-in-hand asking each other, "how can I be Jesus to you today?"

A great marriage also loves fruit! Not just the healthy kind we eat, but the fruit of the Spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). When couples treat each other with unconditional love, find joy in each other's presence, extend patience and grace when offenses occur, and exercise self-control instead of harsh words or actions, they create an environment of trust, intimacy and security.

Forgiveness is also key. Since all people are sinners, both spouses will inevitably hurt and let each other down. A great marriage has a habit of foregoing the scorekeeping of wrongs and humbly asking for and extending forgiveness, just as Christ has forgiven us. It might take pausing long enough to take a walk and talk.

Communication is critical. Couples should work on communicating openly, honestly and respectfully. This means practicing active listening, not jumping to conclusions, assuming the best about each other, and resolving conflicts in a loving and constructive manner.

Ultimately, a great Christian marriage involves both partners dying to self and putting the needs of their spouse before their own, just as Christ did for us. It's about serving and ministering to your spouse - "How can I be Jesus to you today?" It's about keeping your love fresh through fun, laughter and intimacy. And it's about supporting each other's ministries and calling as you both walk The Way of Jesus together.

Marriage is a profound illustration of the gospel. When couples keep their vertical relationship with God as their first priority, He blesses their horizontal relationship with each other. Seek Christ first as individuals and a couple, and watch as He transforms your good marriage into a truly great and exciting one!

Go take a walk with your loved one today!