Define your “why”.

Creating a shared vision and defining what a meaningful life means to both parties is the best way to build strength. ~ from  7 Ways to Build Strength into Your Marriage*

When a husband and wife team have a shared vision – and then pursue this vision – they impact the world around them.  And they build a strong marriage.

This couple met in Paragould, Arkansas when they were in the 5th grade.  They began dating in their junior year and in 1969 were married.  They have 5 children and 13 grandchildren.

So far they sound like a pretty normal couple, right?

What makes Fielden & Janet unique?  Their “why”.

Already as young adults, they had a shared desire to be missionaries in Africa.  While they attended University they became a part of a mission team which moved to Uganda, Africa in 1972.

From fleeing Uganda (because of Idi Amin) in December 1972, to time in Kenya till 2006 they ministered to over 250 congregations,  and built primary and high schools.  They impacted countless people – young and old – for Christ. You’d think that would be a “great enough” vision,  a good enough “why”, wouldn’t you?

With strong marriages & families…

Then, in 2006 this leadership couple moved forward to work in another mission in Tanzania.  Since 1984 this couple has been involved in marriage and family training in Kenya (which makes sense, if you think of being active in congregations and schools), so once in Tanzania they began “The Africa Institute of Marriage and Family”.

Janet and I first began our ministry of family counseling in 1984 when four young couples came to us for advice….

…We began to notice that many African couples were struggling and needed good godly teaching and counseling…

… Janet and I are compelled to do all we can, in every place we can, to strengthen the marriages and families of God’s people in Africa.  With stronger families they can better preach Christ to their fellow tribesmen.

Janet & Fielden carry on in their mission both in Tanzania and Swaziland.  (read more here.)  I don’t belong to their church group, and I know that there are many strong couples serving in missions all over the world.  I use this couple as an illustration.

Know your “why”.

Last week I was part of a visitor’s day sponsored by a group of ladies in business.  There I met Vi – she and her husband are working together to improve the health of people around them.  (they sell a product).  When I asked her what the best thing about working together in this part-time business is, she said:

It saved our marriage.  We had nothing in common until we found (this product).  And now we’re out together all the time and involved in helping people become healthy.

Vi and her husband have found a “why” – their “why”.  It’s building a stronger marriage.

What do you do – together with your spouse – that strengthens your marriage?

Is it your “why”?

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*This post – the 1st of 7 –  is prompted by a post on my husband’s blog – FergusonValues.  It’s one of my favorite posts of his, so far … 🙂   Can you imagine what Robert and my “why” is… ?