Your Marriage Is Not A Trap

THIS WEEK’S DEVOTIONAL

Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, “All these things I will give to you if you will fall down and worship me,” Then Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, you shall worship the Lord your God and Him only you shall serve.” Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him. Mathew 4:8-11

There are times in our marriage and family life when you begin to feel that you’re missing out on all that life has got to offer you probably because of the kind of man or woman you are married to. Perhaps you are counting all you could have achieved if you were not in that marriage, right? You are beginning to feel caged in and trapped. That’s the devil showing you the kingdoms he can offer you if only you can give in to a little hidden deal, a little lie, a little promiscuity, some ungodly indulgences or compromises here and there. Or out rightly walk out on your marriage and be free.

Simply realise that you are entertaining a discussion with the devil just like Eve did in the Garden of Eden and the outcome of entertaining such thoughts has consequences more than you can handle. First of all, you must discern at every cross road the voice you are listening to. Is it the voice of God, satan or man? If it’s the voice of satan, act like Jesus did. Make no room for such thoughts. Secondly, submit your feelings, disappointments and dissatisfaction to God as you engage in worship. Allow Him to infuse hope and faith into your heart. (Rom 12: 1, 2).

Evaluate Yourself

• Outline the reason why you feel trapped or you feel you are missing out on the marriage. Are the feelings genuine or borne out of competition or comparison with other persons?
• In what realistic ways can you deal with the condition that generated the feeling of being trapped or left out without creating conflict in your relationship?
• Talk to God about your feelings and try not to point fingers at your spouse regarding this.
• When you get a leading from God, lovingly share your feelings with your spouse and what byou think can be done.
• Avoid being resentful and full of regrets. Count your blessings you already have and let your consolation begin from there.

Prayer

Lord, help me to be contented with what you have given me and help me to wait on you for help and favour.