2. The spice that preserves marriage is OPENNESS / TRUTHFULNESS.
Ephesians 4:15, 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all
things, which is the head, even Christ. Nothing preserves the bond of unity in marriage like
truthfulness. It is always better to relate in an open manner and to tell the
truth at all times, no matter what. I have had couples ask how much they should let their spouses in
on regarding their lives, especially their past. A simple guide will be that
whatever your spouse will find out later and be disappointed that you did not
tell them, then it is better that you tell them now. Let them find out from
you!
Gen. 2:25 says that both Adam and Eve were naked (
open and vulnerable ) without being ashamed. Come to think of it, if you need to cover it up from your
spouse, then you have no business engaging in it in the first place! Maybe you fear your spouse's reaction now if you open up to
them. Well, what is the alternative to that? Imagine that they eventually find
out, which they will, will their reaction not be worse then?
A word to spouses who are being told the truth. Please be
gracious in your response to the truth you are being told. Note that I used the
word 'response' not 'reaction.' Be gracious, especially because your spouse
chose to be open with you. Avoid flipping your lid and causing chaos, or that
will be the last time you hear the truth from your spouse. Also, please note that speaking the truth in love is
what the Bible commands. Someone said " Love without truth is hypocrisy;
but truth without love is brutality!"
Speak the truth, yes but do not be brutal about it. Do it in
love.
...to be continued tomorrow
No comments:
Post a Comment