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EYE ON THE PRIZE "Where there is no vision, the people perish:" Last week, we spoke briefly about straining forward toward the prize, so this week I think it would do us well to talk about that prize. What exactly are we straining for? Is it worth the strain? Every couple that goes to the altar to take their vows before God and man has a vision and a dream at that very moment concerning the future of their brand new marriage. I'm sure the vision doesn't include fighting and fussing, silent treatments and angry outbursts. What happened? We lost sight of the vision. If there is no vision for the marriage the marriage will go nowhere. Another version of the Bible (NIV) says, "Where there is no vision the people cast off restraint." In other words, they go any which way. Only God knows where they will end up and it probably won't be any place good. And if we're not looking forward to the vision of the prize, we'll end up looking backward to all the faults, of the other person! You see, pointing out faults has to do with our past, and is driven by our fears. Looking for solutions has to do with our future and is driven by our faith. So we must not look for faults -they will certainly be there- but we must look for solutions. Let's talk about the vision and dreams we had for our marriage. Let's look at a road map for our relationship to determine where we want to go, and map out the best route to get there. Will it be difficult? Perhaps. It will take two adults communicating with mutual respect, "submitted one to another out of reverence for Christ." (Ephesians 5:21) It will take adults who are secure in their own identity in Christ, who can give of themselves for the well being of another, and all to the glory of God. Let's talk about our relationship. How can we grow? How can we communicate more effectively until the day comes when we can say whatever is on our minds without hesitation, and without fear of rejection or judgment from each other, speaking the truth in love? Let's talk about it, pray about it, and even write it down for future reference. Question for the Both of Us: What was the vision we had for our marriage when we said "I do" at the altar? How have we strayed from that vision? Prayer For The Both of Us: Lord, help us to recapture the vision we had for our marriage when we said "I do." Help us to grow in our relationship with you so that we will have the self-confidence (or Christ-confidence) we need to be available for each other. Help us make progress toward the prize. |
© 2007 Marriage & Family Savers Ministries