Consider this: One of the sources God uses to provide us with strength and growth is the relationships we form with other believers. When we view life from God’s perspective, we show wisdom. Therefore, as couples, we can show wisdom by finding warm, accepting Christian friends to whom we can bare our hearts without fear of judgment. Mutual confession of sin and resulting prayer brings spiritual healing. Close friendships not only provide companionship, they afford an opportunity for accountability. Only when we honestly admit our weaknesses to others and experience their acceptance can we begin to realize how beautiful we are to God. With these people, we can experience the presence of God together, and rejoice in the abundance of His love and grace. Friendships like these are not about comparing impressive achievements. Instead, we share life with people who have truly experienced times of pain and frailty while growing through trials. People like this are able to see God’s beauty in us by looking beyond our faults and seeing Christ working to mold us into His image.

Discuss: We often try to insulate ourselves from the trials of life, including those that come through living in intimate relationship with another human being, by withdrawing from conflict. Why do you believe this is so?  

Pause here and reflect on the path that you have taken in life. Can you honestly say that you are satisfied with the direction your life is heading? Confession is humbling but good for the soul. Ask God to direct you and your spouse to a group of believers that can help you grow in your faith and in your marriage.

It is better to ask the way ten times than to take the wrong road once.
JEWISH PROVERB

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