e-Hope

Many of life’s problems can be difficult to handle alone, even when you have a partner to handle those problems with.  It is important to not only ask God to help you with your problems but to surrender yourselves as a couple to God during life’s difficulties.  1 Peter 5:6 says: "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time."

Going to God as a couple before you handle a situation with your partner can renew your mind and give you a new perspective on the situation at hand.  Remember though, God is not a slot machine: He answers prayer in His timing and we don’t always know why.

Praying together or even separately for your spouse can increase trust in your relationship.  Next time you and your partner want to work through an issue, pray beforehand with your spouse about the issue.  Here are a couple of things to consider: ask God to help you put God first, your partner second, and yourself third; don’t tear your partner down; prayer for your partner should be guided by love and should bless your partner. 

One obstacle to having faith that your relationship can grow is fear.  Having fear in your relationship can make growth difficult and can make it easier to have negative interactions with your partner.  Pray together with your partner and ask God to help you and your partner to trust in God’s power. It may also be helpful to speak with your consultant and your spiritual advisor about these feelings.