3 Things I’d Tell My Younger Self About Marriage

Transform Your Marriage with Biblical Wisdom: A Journey to a Stronger Relationship

Ever heard the saying, “A cord of three strands ain’t easy to snap”? That’s Ecclesiastes 4:12 for you! Imagine if this nugget of wisdom could shake up your marriage entirely. Picture chatting with your younger self—what would you spill about love, sticking together, and God’s role in all this? Whether you’re flying solo, in the dating game, or tying the knot, these truths from the Good Book could be your ticket to a rock-solid connection and a deeper dive into God’s marriage blueprint.

Back in the day, many of us figured marriage was a breeze as long as we found “the one.” We’d think love alone could steer the ship. But the Bible clues us in that marriage is more than just a love story—it asks for a deeper dive and dedication. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Before jumping the broom, it’s wise to realize that love might need a bit of backup, and God’s guidance is the secret sauce to fortifying our bonds.

But what about when the honeymoon phase fizzles, and the daily grind kicks in? The dream can turn into a bit of a pickle. Without God in the mix, frustration and letdowns can take the wheel.

Centering on God

First up, let’s chat about keeping God in the driver’s seat. Matthew 6:33 reminds us, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Putting God at the core of our marriage is key. When we make Him numero uno, everything else just clicks.

Let me tell you about a couple I know. They were head over heels after the wedding bells, but their spiritual connection? Not so much. Love was there, commitment too, but they were missing that deeper ground to weather life’s storms. For years, miscommunication took its toll, and they drifted apart, despite their efforts. One day, after a rough patch, they decided to switch gears. They started morning prayers together, seeking God’s wisdom as a team. They pledged to dive into the Bible as a duo, chatting about scriptures and weaving them into their lives. And guess what? Magic happened. The barriers between them crumbled, and a newfound peace took root. They rekindled their bond, this time with a shared mission and a love deepened by faith.

Talk with Love and Understanding

Next up, let’s talk about chatting with love and understanding. James 1:19 advises, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” Communication is crucial, but it’s not just about yapping; it’s about lending an ear with love. I once had a mix-up with my spouse that almost drove a wedge between us. It wasn’t until I took a step back, truly listened, and got where she was coming from that we patched things up. I swear, love needs patience, and real communication is all about that patience.

The Might of Forgiveness and Grace

Now, let’s dig into forgiveness and grace. Ephesians 4:32 nudges us to “be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Marriage and forgiveness go hand in hand. You’ll both stumble, no doubt. But Ephesians 4:32 encourages us to forgive as God forgave us.

There’s a couple I know who faced a marriage crisis: betrayal. Their love was once joyful and trusting, but a painful secret shattered their world. The betrayal cut deep, leaving one partner feeling betrayed and the other drowning in guilt. Divorce loomed large. For months, they lived like strangers, their home heavy with tension. In their darkest hour, they made a brave choice. They turned to God, seeking His strength to heal and forgive. It wasn’t smooth sailing—tears, long talks, and moments of doubt. But as they laid their pain before Jesus, a miracle unfolded. They saw each other as two wounded souls in need of healing. They chose genuine forgiveness, letting God mend their hearts. Slowly, they rebuilt their love, brick by brick, with patience and renewed vows to each other and God. Today, their marriage stands strong—a testament to forgiveness’s transformative power. What seemed impossible became a redemption tale, proving that with God, even the deepest scars can heal.

Marriage as a Covenant with God

Here’s the biggie I’ve learned: marriage isn’t just a two-person gig. It’s a pact with God. Ecclesiastes 4:12 says, “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” When you, your partner, and God are intertwined, it forms a bond that can weather any storm. Realizing this was a game-changer for me. Marriage became less about what I could gain and more about how I could serve and honor God by loving my spouse.

If I could rewind and tell my younger self anything, it would be this: keep God at the center, chat with love, and always choose to forgive. These are the keys to a marriage that not only survives but thrives.

Now, over to you. What’s the best biblical marriage advice you’ve ever snagged? Share it in the comments below. Don’t forget to comment, like, and subscribe. If you’re craving more Christian insights into building a steadfast relationship with Christ, check out this video right here. Catch you next Monday morning on “Monday Mornings with Michael.”