What is the mark of a great couple? What about an older couple that stands out from the crowd?
What makes you stop and say to yourself, “They’re still in love after all of these years”?
If you’re anything like me, you notice the signs. They’re often subtle, but nevertheless they’re consistent.
The difference is that some couples grow old, and others grow old together.
They make time for each other, they nurture their friendship, they honour each other with their words, they respect their relationship enough to work it out instead of stepping out, and they honour the sacred vows they once made.
Couples like this aren’t perfect in fact I’ll venture to guess that many of them have gone through trials and failed the ones that they love. And just like the rest of us, they’ve said things that hurt. They’ve done things they wish they could take back. Just like us, they’re human beings walking in grace.
But here’s the thing–they overcome trials together.
If we want to be a great couple that grows old together, we need to start looking at obstacles as opportunities to support one another. In fact it’s not so much about what where getting from a relationship as it is about giving and living in such a way that is pleasing to God.
Marriage is an obstacle course. It’s a series of challenges that test our inner strength and endurance over the years. In order to win, we must learn the importance of team work, and staying the course together.
The Bible tells us that “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Michael is always there to lift me up which is probably what I love the most about him. He’s strong when I’m weak. I know he looks at me that way too, and sometimes and I’m baffled because I wonder how I can possibly be a source of strength. I’m not strong–I’m a girl who cries during Hallmark commercials. But the thing is, I’m ready to listen, I’m willing to share in his burden, and I’m able to pray.
I don’t want to merely grow old with my husband, I want to grow old together, don’t you?
You are loved by an almighty God,
Darlene Schacht
The Time-Warp Wife
P.S. Are you following along in our marriage challenge? Today’s challenge is simple–play ‘your song.’ If you don’t have a song, maybe tonight would be a good night to choose one. Ours goes all the way back to 1985. It’s “I Can’t Fight This Feeling” by REO Speedwagon. Go ahead and laugh. I know it’s cheesy. 😉
Have a question or a comment? How about telling us what your couple song is! Click here to join the discussion.
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