1. I think you have to go into it mutually looking to the long term, and keep “divorce” out of your vocabulary. I think it would make a big difference in marriage statistics if the partners agreed that divorce was not an option; this would cause each to realize that they were going to be with this person for the rest of their lives, so they better work it out! Naturally this requires humility and self-sacrifice at times.
2. What is the institution of marriage? The answer to this question for you will decide the parameters of “success in marriage” for you. If it is only a legal contract for shared liability and property ownership or a symbol of status, it will be dissolved as soon as these benefits cease to outweigh the costs.
3. Marriage is under attack in modern entertainment. How many television shows or movies aired/released in the last 5-10 years have had any couples with a healthy marriage in it, even as supporting characters? I struggle to think of any. I find it humorously ironic that the only time marriage seems to be mentioned in a favorable light is as regarding same-sex marriage.
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Matthew 19:26 (NIV) 26 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
If you are of a mind to, please join me in my prayers for this, my worry list. I’ve been plain overwhelmed with thoughts about these things lately.
I’m concerned about a family member who is under the influence of deceptive spiritual entities, and in pride, she thinks she is in control of it. I want to be available as a positive voice of Godliness and reason.
I’m concerned about our country and politics. I see deception and corruption and apathy, yet I feel impotent to do anything about it. I’m scared for the future, and the condition of the country to be left for our children. I’m not even nearly certain what I should do about it. What ought my political priorities to be as a Christian? I’m not sure what my expectations should be of government by fallen man.
I’m concerned about the subtle and insidious spread and influence of cults and other religions, and their easy acceptance in a postmodern culture which relativizes all religious and moral truths.
I’m concerned about my influence in my church, and its influence on me and my family. Surely we have things to learn from each other. Should I consider relocating? There are some discrepancies of belief between me and my church. Should I hope to change these beliefs in the church, or ought I go find a church that already shares my beliefs? What if I’m wrong about my beliefs anyway? Why do I have to choose between emotion/experience and theology/apologetics? I want opportunities to make a difference. I am frustrated by divisions and denominations and lack of unity.
I’m concerned about my family. What was I thinking bringing children into this world? I want to shelter and protect them from the nasty, but I can’t do so without stunting and damaging them. I’m terrified when I think of the fights and heartaches to come when my kids become teenagers, and the consequences of bad choices they will make. I love them so much, and when they hug me and say “Daddy,” it melts my cynical heart. I want their faith to be strong, and their minds to be sharp. I want them to be wise, and persevere in school, and to make smart dating choices. I want to be a better father and husband. I want to be closer to Amy, and us closer together with God. I want to care for her needs and concerns like she does herself. I want to make wise spending choices, giving and modeling generosity for my family.
I’m concerned about my friends. I want to be an example to them of the love of Christ, growing in relationship and influence with them.
I’m concerned about myself! I want more wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. I want a daily renewal of commitment to truth and the clear thinking to discern it in the midst of plurality and relativity. I want peace and direction about my future career and ministry opportunities. I need encouragement that I’m on the right path, and energy, strength, and health to see it through. I need humility to present the truth in a winsome way. I want spiritual growth to better know and trust God and his ability to handle for the best the things that I’m concerned about. I want to rest in the peace of God’s sovereignty as I trust in Him.
