Journey for Two
AL Weddings
"May you forever grow in grace for one another."
These dear words have come to my mind many times throughout the first year of marriage. Two sweet friends, who were essential to the spiritual growth of Tyler and me when we first met, wrote this powerful phrase on our wedding "guestbook."
Our first year has been a delightful journey filled with grace upon grace from God. We know we are richly blessed through our family, friends, faith community, spiritual growth, earthly purpose, and endless provision. One of the greatest gifts He has given us is an increase of grace for each other.
Learning how to live in partnership with another person is an interesting challenge. God knew it was not good for man to be alone, just as He desires an eternal bride (us!!!) for Himself, so He handcrafted a woman. Ever since, man and woman come from two different families and environments and are united as one flesh. Our Father's endless grace is our constant help as we learn how to live well together. He helps us develop an unconditional positive regard for each other that paves the way for a lifelong partnership.
Daddy has supernaturally given Tyler and me more grace for each other than for any other person in the world. Because of this, I better understand how a covenant truly works. For example, sometimes I am instantly offended by something my husband says, but it is merely because of the difference in our communication styles. We come from families who communicate differently, and we are continually learning how to meld the two. In the mean time, God gives me the grace to throw off offense and see the true meaning behind his words. In another scenario, I may become focused on my plans and unintentionally disregard my husband's desires. God helps Tyler graciously respond to me and not become hurt. He knows that I do indeed care about the things he wants and needs.
There are times when we are led to bring a hurt to the other's attention, but Daddy helps us do so in a loving and calm manner. Yelling, harsh words, and hurtful language are not His way of communication, and they only lead to further hurt and division. We have had our share of those, but He is helping us communicate in a far more gracious way. We are learning how to focus on the root of the matter by clearly communicating our meaning and expressing our feelings. He is teaching us how to let grace mediate the situation.
Marriage paints a beautiful picture of how our Father sees us as his bride. He has chosen to be in covenant with us. He knows our heart and sees our divine purpose. He desires to spend eternity with us. He graciously guides and accompanies us through life. Through this process, we begin to see ourselves through His eyes. We are becoming His spotless bride as we embrace His love and grace. Only He can shape us into that beautiful image. We simply choose to partner with Him and yield to His love.
May we forever grow in His grace.