What are the makings of a good marriage? Well there are several things that are important but a couple of them really stand out to me. One is perseverance. Perseverance is something sorely lacking in many marriages today.
Think about what perseverance really means. According to Merriam-Webster’s dictionary it means to make a continual effort or to achieve something despite there being obstacles in the way such as opposition, failures or difficulties.
Isn’t that what every marriage faces? At one point or another we may find ourselves in a season of trouble and tribulation. But when we can persevere, or sweat it out, then we have demonstrated one of the makings of a good marriage.
You see we are too quick to give up. We think if it’s too hard then we shouldn’t have to suffer. We live in an entitlement society and believe that we need to be given what we want when we want it. It is these very things that stand in the way of having a good marriage.
Will you face opposition in your marriage? Yes. Will your spouse fail you? Yes. Will there be difficulties? Yes. But the makings of a good marriage are when you can persevere through those things.
Another thing that is important in the making of a good marriage is selflessness. That is one of those things our society isn’t too keen on. It’s all about “me, me, me.” It reminds me of the seagulls in the movie “Finding Nemo.” They kept repeating over and over again, “Mine, mine, mine.”
Its funny when we hear that and we sometimes think of small children when those words are spoken but it’s something many adults still deal with.
No marriage can stand the test of time if it is built on selfishness. That is part of a marriage, giving of self. It is putting your spouse before your own needs. It is considering their needs before your own.
This isn’t popular and many of you are probably squirming in your seat right now because this goes down your throat as smoothly as chunky soup. But I guarantee that if you live out your marriage being selfish it won’t last long.
Want to know the makings of a good marriage? Persevere and be selfless, you will be on the right track.
Related Articles:
Responding Instead of Reacting
Weathering the Seasons of Marriage