Changes and Risks

How are “things” in your marriage? Marriages change in many different ways over the passing years. For some couples change is slow. Then there’s those that change rapidly and even radically. Change happens, and in some cases partners make it happen, whether it be for good or for bad reasons. We always desire things to be for the good; such as staying happy together or by continually enjoying each others company. It’s good to daily take inventory – there should only be the two of you. That’s very important. You need to look at your marriage and evaluate its strengths and weaknesses. Is your communication true communication and not just thinking your partner understands when they really don’t because you don’t talk in depth about things, together as a couple? You need to make plans for change if necessary. It will involve risk and often times upsetting what’s comfortable status quo. Being comfortable where you are can lead to complacency and possibly to stagnation. Risk is involved and can strike fear in the hearts of some spouses. It means exchanging a known for an unknown. It means moving from predictability to unpredictability. Think about the turtle, he only makes progress when he sticks his neck out. Here are some areas in your marriage where you may need to take some risks and make change: sex, decision-making, dealing with in-laws, money matters, and communication. You may be the one that has practical fears facing you right now. Talking about those fears of trying something new can alleviate some of those fears. It will be so much better when you open up and face what seems like giants in your marriage. If it’s been said once, it’s worth saying a thousand times: A relationship with Jesus can alleviate the heavy burdens you carry around with you, or the hurt you feel because you don’t have a spouse that will communicate with you. You can begin by praying openly with Jesus. He will hear and in His time answer how He sees is best for you. The words “fear not” are stated in God’s Word 366 times. Let them echo again and again in your mind. Believe that Jesus cares for you personally and begin by testing His Word (My thoughts with Quiet Times for Couples, page 95). Sherry