Loving One Another is Complex, Not Complicated
A Word From Jason & Ros
Hey Friends! This month we’re focusing on God’s command through Christ Jesus to “love one another” as He has loved us. Loving service is essential to building healthy, lasting marriages. And this is our sincere prayer for yours. 💌
Although love and marriage typically go hand in hand, with both spouses committing to expressing love to each other, there are times when loving someone gets complicated. Why? Well, several factors can come into play, but the overarching reason we’ve discovered is that we make it complicated! In essence, one or both people want things to go “their way” in the relationship, regardless of how their decisions affect others.
We firmly believe that God didn’t create marriage to be complicated; however, marriage is complex, and not in a negative sense! When two different people from two different lives, upbringings, and ideals join in sync and work to become one new family, that’s where the complexity lies.
Yet, when God is at the forefront of your marriage, life together is not burdensome, but a blessing. He takes those complexities and turns them into a beautiful dynamic of two people living in the joy of unity, faith, peace, and consistent communion. Jesus said it best when He said:
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34
Continue reading to explore the latest highlights and resource insights we have especially for you this month!
Doing Love & Marriage God’s Way
Godly marriage will consistently require a daily commitment of loving one another in and through every change, challenge, and triumph. The work or “service” of marriage doesn’t refer to carrying out burdensome tasks or routine obligations, but choosing to willingly serve and entreat one another each day with genuine love and heartfelt intention.
So, what is God’s design for marriage? Well, it’s simple if we trust His Word and apply it to our lives and marriage. The willing service to our spouses within God’s marriage covenant is found in Genesis 2:18-25. However, God specifically shows what marriage is supposed to look like in Genesis 2:24-25. Couples are to:
1. Leave Parents
This notion doesn’t mean abandon or forget about your parents. It simply means it’s time to grow up and fly from the nest! Once we’ve reached a certain level of maturity as young adults, we are to leave our parents’ home and from under their covering to venture out and start our adult lives.
2. Be Joined To a Spouse
God has given some of us the gift of remaining “unmarried” (single)… Yes; that’s a gift! However, He’s gifted many of us with a desire to be married at some point in our lives, where we join with someone and commit to sharing our lives together.
3. Become One Flesh
Once you’ve said, “I do,” the party’s not over; it’s just getting started! This stage is where the real and complex “service of marriage” begins.
It’s also important to note that it’s not just you and your “Boo” in this marriage; God is in this with you as well. He’s there not only watching every move and word, but He’s also patiently waiting for you to seek Him for help. And here’s the kicker: He already knows you’re going to need it! So, don’t fool yourself; you cannot have a successful, healthy marriage without God who holds all the keys!
The work of becoming one flesh looks like:
- Loving one another as God and Christ have loved you
- Living in sync and harmony together
- Husbands→ loving, leading, and sacrificing; Wives→ submitting, supporting, and honoring
- Consistently communicating and communing with one another
- Maintaining the covenant with God and each other: being fruitful, multiplying, filling the earth, subduing it, and having dominion
4. Stay Naked
Don’t get into the habit of hiding things from your spouse! Stay “H.O.T.” (Honest, Open, and Transparent) with each other at all times. The moment you start hiding things, it’s a sign you need to seek the Lord and a mature Christian confidant for help so you can begin gently sharing the issue with your spouse.
5. Remain Unashamed
Live your lives in the truth of God’s Word. Let the Word be the final authority in your marriage and household. His Word will settle EVERY dispute, maintain peace, and keep your hearts right before Him. There is no shame or blame when you both choose to conduct your lives according to God’s plan.
How does your marriage compare to God’s design and plan? Find out by taking a quick assessment!
Featured Blog of the Month
Truths No One Tells You About Love & Marriage– Parts I and II
Have you ever thought, ‘I wish I knew back then what I know now?’ Happens to us all the time!
This month, we’re sharing a 2-Part blog series on the four truths most people don’t know about love and marriage. We pray that these profound truths we’ve learned over the years will encourage and inspire you and your spouse. We also challenge you to apply them and start experiencing real transformation in your marriage!
Get the Skinny On:
- Real Love
- God’s Truths About Real Marriage
- The Lie
- The Myth
Bottom Line: With God, you can win and truly experience the healthy, strong marriage you deserve! So, check out both blogs, Part I and Part II, and get informed about each truth and every detail you need to ensure your marriage thrives.
Podcast Feature
“C” for Covenant: Why Marriage Starts Here!”
We’ve officially kicked off Season 2 of Love Letters with Jason and Ros with E14: C for Covenant, and we’re delighted to be back with you! Have you watched the latest episode yet?! If not, check it out now!
But before you do, grab your loved one, a pencil and pad, and a few snacks to sit back, relax, and fully enjoy yourselves.
Don’t miss a single word of knowledge that was dropped in this episode. We want you to “know better,” and then “do better.” So, prepare to take your marriage up a notch and step into another level of love with the Father and your spouse!
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The Community Spotlight
Jason & Ros Now Have Devotionals!
Have you checked out our new devotionals page? If you’re looking for fresh Biblical insights on faith, love, and marriage, we’ve got you covered. Our devotionals offer faith-based perspectives, rooted in:
- Scripture
- Personal Reflection
- Heartfelt Prayer
Be encouraged and equipped with the inspiration you need to maintain connection and build a stronger, healthier marriage!
💌 Your Love Letter Challenge for the Month:
Talk to your spouse this month about how you both “love one another.” Remember, love is an action word, not a feeling or a word. Base your actions on the following passage:
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” — John 13:34
You and your spouse are to list at least 3-5 ways each of you loves the other. Share and discuss your lists together so your spouse can confirm whether they’ve experienced each listed expression of love from you. Afterward, pray together. Ask God to help you both in areas that need improvement, and to help you continue loving each other daily as He loves you.
Could your marriage use a little enhancement or enlightenment? Consider marriage coaching and consulting with Jason & Ros. We’re here to help, and the first conversation is free!
