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Compelled by Christ’s Love: Building a Stronger Marriage
Marriage is a sacred bond designed by God, not just for companionship but for growth and maturity. Before marriage, we often focus on our own happiness, but marriage teaches us to care for our spouse’s needs and feelings. In a world where divorce rates are high, it’s essential to nurture and grow together in marriage, fostering strong, lasting relationships.
Paul reminds us that marriage involves mutual care: “He who is married cares about the things of the world—how he may please his wife” (1 Corinthians 7:33-34). This means we must not only expect love but also give it. The key to a successful marriage is reciprocity—loving our spouse as we want to be loved. Often, marital problems arise when couples forget this principle, leading to blame and resentment. A healthy marriage requires both partners to actively give and receive love.
Our motivation to love and care for our spouse is deeply rooted in Christ’s love for us. As Paul writes, “For the love of Christ compels us” (2 Corinthians 5:14). This compelling love isn’t just about obligation; it’s a powerful force that drives us to act selflessly. When we experience Christ’s sacrificial love, it transforms us, enabling us to love our spouse with the same intensity and commitment. This divine love becomes the foundation upon which we build a strong and enduring marriage.
Paul also speaks about sacrificial love in marriage: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her” (Ephesians 5:25). This kind of love goes beyond feelings; it’s about sacrifice, patience, and forgiveness. Love isn’t just about sweet words or gifts; it’s about enduring hardships together and forgiving each other’s flaws. “Love suffers long and is kind…bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). This divine love strengthens marriages, keeping them resilient through the years.
Finally, God established a natural order in marriage: “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife” (Ephesians 5:22-23). This order isn’t about authority but responsibility. The husband’s role is to lead with love, while the wife supports with respect and understanding. When couples follow this divine order, peace and harmony can prevail.
Marriage is a journey of learning to love selflessly. By embracing God’s principles of mutual care, sacrifice, and respect, our marriages can flourish, reflecting the love that God intended for us. Let’s strive to rekindle the love in our marriages and grow together, grounded in God’s eternal love.
We would love for you to join us at our church for our upcoming Fall Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation in September. The theme is “All Things Become New”. We hope that it will inspire you to refresh yourself and build a stronger marriage and a more loving family. You can also join us for the Fall ESSC via online streaming. Here’s the ESSC schedule:
Thursday, September 26, 2024 6:50PM to 8:10PM
Friday and Saturday, September 27-28, 2024 9:00AM to 8:10PM
Sunday, September 29, 2024 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Complimentary lunch and dinner will be served.
Please find our church location below:
4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
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In the meantime, please feel free to join us for our regular Sabbath (Friday evening and Saturday) services online or in-person.
Friday Evening Service: 7:50PM – 9:00PM
Saturday Morning Service: 10:50AM – 12:00Noon
Saturday Afternoon Service: 1:30PM – 2:40PM
Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org