Consider this: When things go wrong or bad things happen, where do you put your trust? What is the source and object of your faith? Unlike those outside the community of faith, we have an anchor; we have Someone who is all knowing and all-powerful that we can trust for guidance and strength. We live in a world where things are not always as they seem; reality is often hidden behind illusion. Couples who appear to have a perfect marriage may be miserable at home. A businessperson who seems successful could be on the verge of bankruptcy. Faith never comes to us by logic or reason, or by what we see. God’s wisdom, which comes by faith, frees us to see through the illusion of appearances.

Faith is not a means to escape reality. Rather, it helps us to face reality, which more often than not begins with our spouse. When we apply our faith in a practical way, we are better able to love our spouses unconditionally, even with their imperfections. A deep faith in God carries with it a realistic awareness of our own failings, and the grace to forgive the failings of others. We grow in faith by hearing, believing, trusting, and acting on the Word of God.

Discuss: Often, one spouse is more talkative than the other is. How can making the effort to insure more balance make conversation more enjoyable and more interesting?

If you love, you will suffer, and if you do not love,
you do not know the meaning of a Christian life.
AGATHA CHRISTIE (1891–1976)

Building Relationships Across Nations | Bringing Christ to the Home