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1st Marriage 2nd Marriage ZZ

Made by Love

‘So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.’ Genesis 1:27(NLT)

‘Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was very good! And evening passed and morning came, marking the sixth day.’ Genesis 1:31(NLT)

Imagine the transformation in your marriage if you viewed one another as image-bearers of God! The Lord chose to display his attributes through mankind—the final masterpiece of all he created. 

How do you see the Lord’s image displayed in one another today? Value each other’s intelligence and creativity,  compassion and mercy, beauty and strength, justice and integrity, discernment and wisdom, kindness and love. Despite your imperfections, the fingerprints of God are wonderful to see. 

Take a moment to pray and thank God for the unique creation of your spouse. Name the qualities you value most—the ones that remind you of Jesus. Ask for a greater appreciation for who they are. Pray for eyes to see past their weaknesses and celebrate their strengths. 

Trust that God has made you “very good” and delights in who you are (Gen. 1:31). He’s ready to show himself to a lost world as his character is revealed through your lives. 

Lord, help us understand what it means to be made in your image. Let us cherish one another as your priceless creation. May we know you better as we grow closer to each other. Amen. 

from Mr. & Mrs.

Categories
1st Marriage 2nd Marriage ZZ

Keep Up the Fight

‘For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.’ Ephesians 6:12(NLT)

‘So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. ‘ James 4:7(NLT)

The devil is determined to ruin your marriage. He knows a godly husband and wife portray Christ’s love for the church. He’s aware that when “two or more are gathered” in prayer, God is with them. He can see the encouragement and strength found in your family. He’ll do whatever he can to destroy what God has joined together. 

Resist him by putting on the armor of God. Fill your minds with the Word so you can recognize his lies. He’ll whisper that divorce is the answer, that your spouse doesn’t really love you. He’ll tell you that a sexual experience outside of marriage won’t hurt anyone—that God cares more about your happiness than your wedding vows. 

Hold tightly to your salvation and faith in God’s forgiveness. When the enemy works to divide or harden your hearts, show grace instead. When he tempts you to sin, live in obedience by the power of the Spirit. Show kindness and integrity to your partner at all times. 

You have all you need to stand firm in God today. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you (James 4:7).      

Lord, give us strength to stand firm when the enemy attacks our marriage. Protect us from his schemes that would tear us apart. Amen.

from Mr. & Mrs.

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1st Marriage 2nd Marriage ZZ

The Gift of Friendship

‘A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need.’ Proverbs 17:17(NLT)

When God brought you together, he knew the problems you would face. He created your marriage as a safe place in frightening times. Marriage can give companionship when you’re lonely, and forgiveness when you fail. Marriage can give encouragement when you feel defeated, and give you an ally when enemies come against you. Marriage can offer acceptance when you’re put down or rejected and help when you can’t make it on your own. Your spouse is a gift from God in times of trouble. 

Today, commit to each other as friends. Build each other up and help out and lighten one another’s load. Share laughter and fun and keep each other’s secrets. Stay faithful and loyal in every situation. Show unconditional love. 

Remember your bond in Christ. Pray together about the good and the bad in your lives. Thank God for how he’s working in your circumstances. Encourage each other to trust in the Word. Praise him for building your marriage and filling it with love. 

God truly did make you for each other. Embrace each other as lovers, friends, and brother and sister in Christ today. 

 Lord, thank you for our marriage. Let us be true friends, no matter what happens. Join our hearts together by your Spirit. Amen.

from Mr. & Mrs.

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1st Marriage 2nd Marriage ZZ

Love in the Real World

‘Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud ‘ 1 Corinthians 13:4(NLT)

We find out quickly after the wedding that love is more than feelings—it’s hard work! The Lord knows true love calls us to surrender our pride and preferences. 

How are you challenged in patience today? Do your partner’s quirks and habits get on your nerves? Ask the Lord for a fresh filling of grace to accept your differences. 

How can you show kindness today? Give a gift, pitch in with chores, or pay a compliment. Look for opportunities to help and care for one another. 

How might you be coveting your spouse? Are you resentful, thinking they have a better job, more fun, and less stress than you? Choose to rejoice today over the blessings you’ve each received. 

How is pride stealing joy from your marriage today? Do you point out your superior parenting, organization, and money management? Do you pressure your partner to be just like you? Ask God to renew your respect for each other’s strengths. 

Fix your eyes on Jesus—our servant King and his example of perfect love. He’ll turn your hearts toward each other and give you joy. 

Lord, forgive us when we’re impatient, jealous, and proud. Teach us to cherish one another as gifts from you. Amen.

from Mr. & Mrs.

Categories
1st Marriage 2nd Marriage ZZ

An Unbreakable Bond

‘I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. ‘ 1 Corinthians 1:10(NLT)

The oneness of marriage gives glory to God. Shared purpose, selfless love, and spiritual unity create a beautiful picture of the One we worship. As a child of God—brothers and sisters of Jesus—you can experience agreement and peace in your relationship. 

You find unity when you hold to one truth, the Bible and when you serve God together without holding back. Unity comes when you choose to love each other before yourselves and when you’re seeking God’s perfect will instead of having your own way. You will have unity when you’re humble, thankful, and prayerful and when you love God with all your heart, soul, and strength. 

Choose to agree today. Lay down your rights and let go of what you’re fighting for. Pray and ask God to lead your life together. Repent of sin that’s dividing you from each other and the Lord. Study the Word to share knowledge of the truth. Let the Holy Spirit join you together in “mind and thought” today. 

Lord, make us one as you are one. Tear down any walls that divide, and unite us in every way. Amen.

from Mr. & Mrs.