What practical steps can Christians take to prepare for marriage challenges mentioned? Facing Reality with Paul’s Words 1 Corinthians 7:28 reminds us: “Yet those who marry will face troubles in this life, and I want to spare you.” The Holy Spirit is not souring us on marriage; He is setting our expectations. Marriage is a gift, yet it invites unique trials—two sinners learning to become “one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). Embracing that reality positions us to prepare wisely. Cultivating Realistic Expectations • Recognize that conflict is normal; sin still dwells in believers (Romans 7:21). • Understand that sanctification is lifelong. Your spouse will grow, but not on your timetable (Philippians 1:6). • Accept that every season—newlywed, parenting, empty nest—brings fresh joys and pressures (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Grounding Marriage in Christ • Make Christ your first love (Matthew 22:37). No spouse can bear the weight of messiah-hood. • Daily recall the gospel: “We love because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19). A forgiven heart forgives. • Worship together: private devotions, shared prayer, local-church commitment (Hebrews 10:24-25). Developing Habits of Grace • Scripture intake: read, memorize, and discuss passages that shape marriage—Ephesians 5:22-33; Colossians 3:12-17. • Prayer rhythms: individual, as a couple, and with children when they come (Philippians 4:6-7). • Sabbath rest: guard one day a week for worship, reflection, and unhurried time together (Exodus 20:8-11). Strengthening Communication • Practice James 1:19—“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” • Use Proverbs 15:1 as a filter: “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” Tone matters. • Schedule regular check-ins—ask, “How are we doing spiritually, emotionally, physically?” before crises hit. Stewarding Finances Wisely • Agree on ownership: “The earth is the LORD’s” (Psalm 24:1). You manage His money together. • Create a budget that honors generosity (2 Corinthians 9:7) and avoids debt slavery (Proverbs 22:7). • Plan for emergencies; financial strain is a common marital pressure Paul likely had in view. Guarding Purity and Fidelity • Flee sexual temptation as Joseph did (Genesis 39:12). Install protections—accountability software, wise media limits. • Celebrate marital intimacy as God’s good gift (Hebrews 13:4). Regular, self-giving intimacy reduces vulnerability to temptation (1 Corinthians 7:5). • Keep short accounts; unconfessed sin erodes trust (Psalm 32:3-5). Building a Supportive Community • Pursue friendships with seasoned, godly couples who model faithfulness (Titus 2:3-5). • Invite mutual accountability; isolation magnifies problems (Proverbs 18:1). • Serve others together—mission trips, hospitality, local outreach (Galatians 5:13). Preparing for Spiritual Warfare • Put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18); the enemy hates godly marriages. • Identify patterns where resentment, pride, or bitterness creep in and counter them with Scripture. • Fast occasionally for breakthrough in stubborn areas (Matthew 17:21 footnote). Embracing a Lifelong Learning Mindset • Read biblically sound books, attend conferences, seek counseling proactively—not merely reactively. • Observe and imitate Christlike qualities in older believers (Philippians 3:17). • Remember that marriage mirrors Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:32); aim to display that mystery more clearly each year. Key Takeaways • Expect challenges; they are not signs of failure but opportunities for growth. • Keep Christ central and the gospel flowing between you. • Cultivate habits—spiritual, relational, practical—that strengthen your union before storms arise. • Lean on the body of Christ, resist the devil, and trust that God is using every trial to refine you both for His glory and your joy. |
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