web: www.inspiringmarriages.net

email: inspiringmarriages@att.nett

music: @joseph_field_texas

Marriage:

· A man and a woman

· Physically and emotionally intimate

· Working together in a shared life to help each other realize their visions and dreams

· Walking with God to fulfill their callings and goals

4 He answered, “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, 5 and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” Matthew 19:4-6 ESV

“Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. Genesis 2:24 ESV

dâbaq, daw-bak'; (Hebrew): a primitive root; properly, to impinge, i.e. cling or adhere; figuratively, to catch by pursuit:—abide fast, cleave (fast together), follow close (hard after), be joined (together), keep (fast), overtake, pursue hard, stick, take.

The idea of a marriage being free from outside influences suggests creating a strong, resilient bond between spouses that isn't swayed by external pressures or opinions.

Mutual respect is essential for any successful relationship. It serves as the foundation for trust, understanding, and love. This means treating your spouse with dignity and consideration, valuing each other’s opinions and feelings. Both parties should feel heard, appreciated, and supported, fostering a strong bond between them.

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her,” Ephesians 5:25 NASB1995

“But [However; In any case; or To sum up] each one of you must love his wife as he loves himself, and a wife must ·respect [reverence; v. 21] her husband.” Ephesians 5:33 EXB

Mutual respect is a key component of a healthy marriage. When it's lacking, relationships can suffer, and couples may experience:

Dismissive behaviors: These can include belittling your spouse ignoring their feelings or making sarcastic comments.

Loss of communication: Disrespect can lead to a loss of emotional intimacy and communication.

Stress: This can prevent people from functioning in their daily lives.

Conflict: When couples can't resolve differences, it can lead to anger and frustration, which can further erode respect.

Mutual respect can be improved by:

Understanding what respect means to your spouse

Accepting your spouse's differences

Agreeing to disagree on issues without holding a grudge (to a point)

“Do two walk together, unless they have agreed to meet? Amos 3: ESV

Active listening

Speak kindly

Validate each other’s feelings

Apologize

Avoid blame

Practice gratitude

Be honest

Treat each other with dignity and respect

Friendship Builder:

Go on a mini-marriage retreat