As a spouse, we influence the direction of our marriage.

Do you take responsibility for your influence?

It’s not enough to just drift through your married life.  It’s not enough to shrug off  the sound of your marriage ship scraping against the rocks.  You are culpable.  You have influence over direction.  It’s not enough to just go along for the ride – to be in the passenger seat and ignore the signs.

On the opposite side…

It’s too much if you’re using your influence to manipulate direction.  It’s too much if you’re ignoring God’s directing – the Gospel call on your marriage.  It’s too much if you’ve placed your “self” ahead of the marriage – there’s no room for “only me” in a “one flesh” marriage. (Genesis 2:24)

 In which direction are you steering?

Steer:  guide – pursue 

Christ died so we don’t have to wallow in our sin.  

Drown in our sin.  

Die in sin.

Let the The Gospel – the Good News  – steer your direction…

…that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,

that he was buried,

that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures…

~ 1Corinthians 15:3,4 (NIV)

GUIDE Forward with Forgiveness

 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.

Mark 11:25

First forgive.  Don’t hold stuff against your spouse – let it go.  It’s done.  Put up a “no fishing” sign over past grievances.  Refuse to go there.  It’s a dangerous place…

Your spouse will feel encouraged and free to move forward, if you’re not holding her/him back by always bringing up the past.  (God doesn’t hold us back – He wipes away our sins – there’s nothing left but His Grace.)  Steer in the direction of forgiveness.

PURSUE Peace.

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.

~ Ephesians 6:14,15

Use peace as a way to steer your marriage.  Strive for peace in your relationship.  If you have peace with your spouse you’ll be ready for the rough waters, you’ll be prepared for the rapids, you’ll be steady through the currents.  

Peace = Harmony

In music, harmony is the pleasing notes matched with a melody.  Harmony enhances and enriches the music.  Is your relationship harmonious?  Do you make a joyful noise to the Lord – together?  Steer in the direction of peace.

Pray for DIRECTION.

You’re forgiving your spouse.

You’re actively seeking peace in your relationship.

Now, how are you leading a meaningful life?

What has God called you and your spouse to do?  

Ask.  He’ll make it clear in His time.

Start by praising Him.  Continue giving thanks for all His blessings.

And pray without ceasing.

How do you steer your marriage in a Godly way?

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Linking up with Martial Oneness Mondays!