Daily Devotional for Wednesday, July 2

Saved Couples

“Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency,” 1 Corinthians 7:5

I absolutely love roses! They are beautiful with their vast array of colors, and yet caring for them can be challenging. They require just the right amount of sunlight and water, as well as continual pruning and weeding for proper growth. But anyone who has worked with roses long enough knows you cannot avoid the thorns. As careful as you may be, there is no way around the occasional poke right through the glove into the skin! That part is not pleasant, but it is worth it to see the gorgeous blooms.

This is like a godly marriage relationship. God has given us all the tools we need to maintain a beautiful marriage, but it requires work and patience. We must have a mindset of caring for our spouse, praying for them and helping them in their spiritual growth. Sadly, we see many couples today becoming selfish and punishing one another by withholding intimacy. This will kill a marriage. Physical and emotional affection is due to our spouse and will keep it alive and flourishing.

Whether you have been married for five months or fifty years, never stop pouring out love and affection into your spouse. Be sure to notice the good and speak words of appreciation as often as possible. If your marriage is struggling, do not give up! Remember, roses have thorns and they hurt and even bleed at times. Fight for your marriage with prayer and God’s Word. As a saved couple, do not neglect to study together, worship together, play together, pray together and stay together! The Lord will bless your union and make your marriage bloom.

REFLECTION

“And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12).

Darla Goodrum