33 years and counting

Isaiah 40:31 (ESV)

But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;

    they shall mount up with wings like eagles;

they shall run and not be weary;

    they shall walk and not faint.

We started our life together 33 years ago today.  It has been an amazing journey as we travelled through the life that God has put before us.  Becky and I have chosen Isaiah 40:31 as our life verse and have also used that verse in both of our son’s dedication.

During our 33 years we have made the Bible our manual for life. It is full of hope and wisdom that we can glean from for every situation.

As I prayed about what to write for this special devotion I was reminded of some other special verses that I think are great life verse for a marriage.

I pray that through these verses you find hope for your marriage and find strength to carry on even through the tough seasons.

1. “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8

This is a great life verse for marriage because marriage is a union of two sinners. There will be times that you and your husband will fail each other, mess up, do something hurtful, and times that you will sin. It is important to remember God’s definition of love and how loving each other deeply can cover those sins and help you reconcile. Knowing this verse will remind you of the power of love!

2. “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” – Ecclesiastes 4:12

This verse is incredibly meaningful as we understand that two are better than one, but that two with God is even stronger.  The three cords represent a husband, a wife, and God. As the three form a close relationship with each other they cannot be quickly broken.

3. “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” – Ephesians 4:2-3

This verse is a great reminder for marriage. If a husband and wife are humble, gentle, patient, and selfless, eager to keep the peace in their relationship, there would be a lot less fighting in the world. This verse reminds us to remain calm and do as Jesus would do.

4. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

This verse reveals the heart of God towards humanity. These words fill our hearts will hope and faithfulness. Sometimes we want to know all the plans God has for us, but I don’t think we would be able to handle knowing all that He has for us in the future. He is strengthening us each day. This verse helps us to trust in God and trust in His timing and His plans for my future.

5. “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” – Mark 10:9

When I married my best friend, we entered into marriage believing divorce would never be an option. Don’t let anyone or anything separate your love for each other.

Hearing stories of how others cling to verses for hope and strength reminds us to trust in God no matter what season of life or marriage we are in.

Dear Lord, may we all take Your Word and use it as a guide for our life. When things come up against us help us to stand firm with Your Word. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.