Rebuilding your marriage (1)

Today about 50% of all new marriages end in divorce. Sadly, that’s true whether you’re a Christian or not. Sometimes the reasons are circumstantial, such as a redundancy or money problems. Other times it’s relational, such as a betrayal of trust or an addiction to drugs and alcohol. There are times when separation is a necessary option, but if you’re committed to rebuilding your marriage, you must learn how to reconnect and work to restore what you once had. In order to accomplish this, you must both be willing to enter into the process and commit for the long haul. For the next few days, let’s look at four key areas.

First, you must know the other person. It’s a mistake to try and figure out your spouse, put them in a box, and label them for the remainder of their lives. Knowing someone is an art in progress, not a static science with unchangeable data. You must view your mate as a mystery who requires ongoing scrutiny and lifelong learning.

The Bible says, ‘Husbands, in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way’ (1 Peter 3:7 CSB). In order to restore your marriage, take a new look at your partner. They may not be who you assumed they were – but neither are you. So you must allow room for each of you to evolve and resolve! And be sure to include God in the process.

Jesus said that a house built on the solid foundation of God’s Word would stand strong in the storm while others around it are falling apart (see Matthew 7:24-27). So today, begin the process by recommitting to God – and each other.