A Note from Hixon Frank
Hey Church!
The Bible says this…
2 Timothy 2:3-7
3 Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in the concerns of civilian life; he seeks to please the commanding officer. 5 Also, if anyone competes as an athlete, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. 6 The hardworking farmer ought to be the first to get a share of the crops. 7 Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.
My wife, Margie, was recently talking on the phone to a young woman who was newly engaged. I was in the same room but, like most husbands, wasn’t terribly interested in the “girl talk” going on, so her conversation faded into the background as I resumed the serious business of watching college football.
I must have still been paying a little bit of attention because I distinctly heard her say what might easily be the most clarifying principle to remember for anyone married or looking to get married.
She said, “When choosing your spouse, choose the one that you want to “suffer with” for the rest of your life.”
“Wait, what?! …. suffer with? That is not exactly romantic!” Now I was listening!
She went on to explain that life isn’t easy and that in marriage, you will go through some hard times … so marry someone who you want to go through those times with!
Profound, wise, true!
In truth…. almost anyone can have a great marriage when the bills are paid, the job(s) are going well, the kids are excelling, and you are physically and spiritually healthy! That is life’s way of giving you a “layup!” But life does not always offer an “easy bucket!” In fact, more often than not, life gives you a challenging “3-pointer” …. in cement shoes…. while being guarded by LeBron James! (Ok, Michael Jordan in his prime!)
So how do you respond when you lose your job, the car won’t start, the baby is sick, you are behind on your bills, your kids don’t call anymore, or you and your spouse just are not getting along? How well do you suffer?
I like to say that if you are married, “every verse in the Bible is a marriage verse.” So, when we are invited to “suffer as a good soldier” in 2 Timothy 2:3, it applies to your marriage relationship as well! In the coming months we will be placing a big emphasis on Biblical, enjoyable, God-honoring marriage!
Starting with Friday February 9th MARRIAGE NIGHT featuring author and comedian Ted Cunningham! This will be a fun and encouraging evening out with your spouse! Register here