A Christian woman a few years into her marriage once reflected back on the days leading up to her wedding:
“As excited as we were to start our new life together, my husband and I were also a little fearful. We had heard from so many Christian couples, and in so many sermons, about how difficult and challenging marriage is. You can’t help but think, ‘Am I crazy to go through with this?’”
She’s right – Christians spend a lot of time talking about marriage in light of the commitment it requires and the sacrifices we must make as husbands and wives. That line of messaging is probably a response to the attitude the world too-often takes toward marriage. To be certain, it’s an issue we need to address.
Sure, marriage can be difficult. We can’t ignore the reality that every marriage, including the healthy ones, will face seasons where marital satisfaction dips and where the journey becomes harder.
But I would hope that – especially for Christians – marriage can also be full of joy and life.
Jesus laughed. He went to parties. As married couples, we can do the same.
So go ahead… enjoy life. Laugh together, have fun. Be silly.
It does the culture and the Church a world of good when Christians mix in joy and pleasure into the message of commitment and sacrifice in marriage.
So on this Valentine’s Day, let’s remember to show the singles in our churches, and a watching world, that Christian marriage is good. That we enjoy our spouses. That one of the reasons why we stick with it when the going gets tough is that marriage is worth it.
I can’t think of a better time to enjoy marriage than today, Valentine’s Day. Give your spouse a big kiss – in front of the kids. Tell him how much you appreciate all he does. Go ahead and make her laugh like you used to when you were dating.
And if you’re at a bit of a loss as to how to start injecting fun into your marriage, listen to our broadcast today, “Having Fun in Your Marriage” with guest Pastor Ted Cunningham. You’ll benefit from the conversation that’s centered on putting happiness and enjoyment back into your relationship. As always you can listen online, on the radio, or via our free mobile phone app.
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