By Dr.Afolabi Olajuwon, Abuja
The Sunday service at Foursquare Gospel Church, Wuse District Headquarters, Abuja on August 25, 2024, was filled with anticipation following electrifying and Spirit-filled choir ministration, Rev Matanmi Cornelius Adebisi, approached the pulpit to deliver a powerful message titled: “Thriving Marriages Under God’s Grace”
In an age of increasing marital difficulties, it’s essential to explore the role of spiritual guidance in fostering healthy and lasting relationships. These accounts reveal the concept of “Thriving Marriages Under God’s Grace” as articulated by Rev. Matanmi Cornelius Adebisi, offering a framework for couples to overcome challenges and find strength in their bonds through divine intervention.
The Power of Grace in Marriage:
Rev. Adebisi emphasizes the transformative power of God’s grace in marriage. Grace, understood as undeserved favour, becomes a foundation for overcoming imperfections and fostering forgiveness. As 1 Peter 4:8 states, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” This love, born from grace, allows couples to embrace humility, acknowledging their own shortcomings and offering forgiveness to their partners, as encouraged by 1 Peter 5:5.
Moreover, grace combats selfishness, fostering a selfless commitment to the marriage, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 13:7, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.” This principle of grace-filled love becomes the bedrock of a strong and thriving marriage.
Communication and Appreciation:
Effective communication is crucial for any successful relationship. Rev. Adebisi highlights the importance of grace in enhancing marital communication. Ephesians 4:29 encourages us to “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”
When communication is infused with grace, it becomes a source of encouragement and understanding, paving the way for healthy dialogue and conflict resolution.
Furthermore, cultivating mutual appreciation is vital for maintaining a thriving marriage. This involves recognizing and celebrating each partner’s strengths, acknowledging their sacrifices, and expressing gratitude for their presence in the relationship.
Spiritual Practices for Marital Harmony:
Rev. Adebisi emphasizes the crucial role of spiritual practices in strengthening marital bonds. Prayer, a cornerstone of a Christian life, becomes an essential tool for couples seeking God’s guidance and intervention in their marriage. It provides an avenue for communicating with God, seeking strength, and deepening their faith together.
Humility, acknowledging our dependence on God, is also vital for a flourishing marriage. As James 4:6 states, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Embracing humility before God allows couples to surrender their pride, seeking His direction and strength to overcome challenges.
Finally, commitment to spiritual growth and biblical guidance is crucial for nurturing a strong marriage. Regularly studying God’s word, attending church services, and actively participating in spiritual communities provide couples with the wisdom and tools to face challenges and strengthen their bond.
Overcoming Marital Challenges:
Rev. Adebisi acknowledges the “serious attack” on modern marriages, highlighting the prevalence of communication breakdowns, and societal pressures that threaten the sanctity of marriage. He emphasizes the importance of seeking refuge in God’s grace, reminding couples that even in the darkest moments, God’s power is sufficient to overcome any obstacle.
The Bible offers numerous examples of couples who faced adversity yet remained steadfast in their commitment, relying on God’s grace to guide them through trials. 1 Corinthians 15:10 reminds us that “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them, yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.” This verse illustrates the power of God’s grace to empower couples to overcome challenges and emerge stronger in their relationship.
In conclusion, incorporating spiritual practices and embracing the concept of God’s grace, couples can find renewed strength and harmony in their marriages. Fostering forgiveness, humility, and commitment through faith allows them to overcome difficulties and discover a deeper level of connection.
By prioritizing God’s guidance and seeking His intervention, couples can build a thriving marriage, one that stands firm against the storms of life and flourishes under the loving care of their Heavenly Father.
*Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants, Fellow of the Chronicle Business School, Abuja, a Researcher and resource person at the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja.
