a post on marriage

via silas

Remember what I said about compatibility? You and your spouse may not like the same movies or have the same favorite color, but you should share the same love for Christ.
Hughes separates marital love into 3 categories: sacrificial love, sanctifying love, and self-love.

Sacrificial love can be explained in Ephesians 5:25. Men, we are to love our wives as Christ loves the Church, in which he went so far as to die for it. It’s about giving over all that you have and also all that you are. Give her your time and energy while paying attention to her needs, both physical and spiritual. Intercede and pray for her too! Rob has said that you can’t call someone a friend until you’ve prayed for them. More so for your spouse.

Sanctifying love is meant to move you two to holiness. Look at Ephesians 5:26-27. Is she more like Christ because she married you? Is she a better mother because of you? A better friend? Rick Holland has said (unfortunately, I don’t remember the Scripture reference right now) that in heaven, God holds a man accountable not only for his own life but also for the life of his wife. So how are you elevating her?

Self-love can be summarized with “love your neighbor as yourself.” How much more so is your wife your neighbor? Treat her as your own flesh! You love yourself, so love her the same way. Her worries, comfort, adornment, and care should become yours.
Marriage will be your second most important relationship in life (Christ comes first), so work on it.