Fireproof Your Marriage

Morgan and I have started the study, Fireproof Your Marriage. We have only completed the first week of the six week study but so far, it's been wonderful. The study takes about 2 hours each week to complete so more than anything, we have enjoyed the chance to turn off the TV, talk in depth, open up our bible, pray together, read scripture, and strengthen our sacred marriage. These materials have been collecting dust on a shelf in Morgan's office ever since we saw the movie last year. This summer seemed like the perfect time to give some focused attention to our almost 8 year marriage. We also know that Satan will often try to use different life situations like a job change, family illness, or any general uncertainties to creep into our marriages and throw us off track.

I know I am repeating myself but I am so thankful for the gift of my husband. He values our life-long covenant and our desire to grow old together, not only physically but also spiritually. We both agree that although our marriage is good, it could always be better. I think the best marriages evolve. They stand the test of not only time, but more importantly, they grow stronger through the trials, triumphs, and situations that come, day to day, year by year.

Here are some qualities of our marriage that I am extremely thankful for:

* We are both very open with one another and feel that communication is key.
* We have a desire to serve and please one another, before ourselves.
* We never speak negatively about one another, especially in public.
* We are each other's biggest fan.
* We view ourselves as a team and strive to be the best partner we can be.
* We value our marriage as a treasured gift.

And most importantly, we have invited God to be the center and focus of both our marriage and our family. That being said, it does not mean that we have a perfect marriage. I think it just means that when we recognize the fact that God is at the head of our household, our priorities go from any sense of entitlement to that of a heart of serving one another. This reminds me of the analogy of the triangle. God is at the top point and husband and wife are the bottom points. As they grow closer to God, they also grow closer to each other.

Unlike the first few years of marriage (before kids), these more demanding years require a bit more effort don't they? This summer, I look forward to learning more about honoring my husband, creating a deeper and more God-centered covenant, and growing in the joy and contentment of serving my family.