Marriage is a sacred union that not only binds two individuals in love but also invites them to embark on a lifelong journey together. However, this journey can sometimes be challenged by external pressures and internal conflicts. An old saying humorously suggests that “Satan didn’t show up until there was a marriage,” highlighting the idea that significant challenges often emerge after vows are exchanged. But there is profound strength and protection available through the spiritual practice of placing God at the center of a marriage. Here’s how you can safeguard your marital bond by nurturing a spiritually enriched relationship.

1. Foundation of Faith: Start by laying a foundation built on mutual faith. For couples who share a religious belief, making faith a cornerstone of their relationship helps them stay aligned with a shared set of values and moral guidelines. Regular participation in worship and religious activities not only strengthens individual spirituality but also cements a common spiritual path, creating a unified approach to life’s challenges and decisions. © 2018 Intentionally Yours

2. Prayer: A Powerful Tool: Prayer is a powerful tool that can fortify a marriage against external adversities and internal disputes. Praying together allows couples to express their fears, hopes, and gratitude, fostering an atmosphere of mutual support and understanding. It’s also a moment to seek divine guidance and wisdom, helping to navigate through rough patches with grace and resilience.

3. Cultivating Forgiveness: Forgiveness is a divine attribute and crucial in any marriage. By practicing forgiveness, couples can overcome resentment and heal wounds that might otherwise fester and impair their relationship. Inviting God into your marriage means striving to embody His grace and mercy. When both partners commit to forgiving each other’s mistakes, the marriage grows stronger and more enduring.

4. Love as a Spiritual Practice: View love not just as an emotion but as a spiritual practice. This perspective encourages couples to love each other as manifestations of divine creation. Such a view fosters deep respect, patience, and kindness, aligning with the Biblical command to love one another as oneself. When love is seen as a divine command, it becomes more about giving than receiving, which can dramatically shift the dynamics of a relationship towards more selflessness and compassion.

5. Community and Fellowship: Surrounding yourselves with a community that shares your values can provide additional layers of support and accountability. Engaging with a faith-based community offers not only fellowship but also wisdom from more experienced couples and spiritual leaders who can offer guidance and counseling when needed. This network can act as a crucial support system during times of crisis or doubt.

6. Continuous Spiritual Growth: Finally, never stop growing spiritually—both as individuals and as a couple. Continuous spiritual education, whether through religious studies, retreats, or workshops, can inspire and reinforce the principles you want to uphold in your marriage. This ongoing growth fosters a dynamic and evolving relationship that can adapt and thrive through all of life’s phases. By placing God at the center of your marriage, you invite a profound depth of love and commitment that transcends the everyday challenges and conflicts. This spiritual dimension acts not only as a shield against adversity but also as a guiding light, leading you and your spouse towards a fulfilling and harmonious life together. In the end, such a marriage becomes not just a pact between two souls but a living testament to their faith and devotion.