SHARED SUFFERING
For His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.
Psalm 30:5 (NLT)
Often, in our marriages, we encounter difficulty together. This could look like a diagnosis, caring for aging parents or loved ones, or even infertility. It's crucial to remember that when we face these difficulties, we need to cling to each other and, together, cling to Christ.
My wife and I struggled with infertility in our marriage. It was one of the greatest sources of heartbreak we had to experience. Health problems, broken dreams and a dim future consumed our thoughts so much that it became difficult to even rejoice for others who were experiencing the blessing of a new child. While I wish we had never gone through that struggle, the growth in our character and our relationship is something I wouldn't trade. God became our source of joy in that season despite our circumstances.
When one of you struggles in marriage, both of you struggle. We need to lean on each other during tough times and lean into God together. Wait on Him for favor and joy—they're waiting to reveal themselves through Him!
APPLICATION: Take a moment to reflect on the suffering you have endured as a couple. How was God faithful in that season? Thank Him for His faithfulness, even amid the mourning you may have experienced.
PRAYER: God, You are always there, even when we are experiencing great difficulty. Help us see You in our struggles and find joy in where You are leading us. Thanks for Your presence, comfort, and healing. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?