The Vow of Pursuit: Keeping Love Alive in Marriage
Have you ever wondered where the spark in your marriage went? You’re not alone. Many couples find themselves asking, "Where did the love, adventure, and romance go?" The answer often lies in one simple truth: somewhere along the way, you stopped pursuing each other. But here's the good news—it's never too late to reignite that flame.
Today, we will explore the importance of pursuing your spouse with the same passion and intentionality as when you first fell in love. This pursuit is not just a romantic notion; it's a biblical principle that can transform your marriage. So, how do you keep the love alive? Let's dive in.
Pursue Your Spouse Like You Could Lose Them
The main point of our sermon was clear: to have a thriving marriage, you must pursue your spouse as if you could lose them. This doesn't mean acting out of fear but rather cherishing and valuing your partner every day. Remember those early days of your relationship when you went out of your way to make your partner feel special? That same energy and intentionality are needed throughout your marriage.
Solomon's wisdom in Proverbs 5:15-19 reminds us to "drink water from your own cistern," meaning find satisfaction and joy in your spouse alone. This pursuit is not just about physical attraction but also about nurturing a deep emotional and spiritual connection.
Why Pursuit Matters
You might wonder, "Why should I care about pursuing my spouse?" The answer is simple: a lack of intentionality in any area of life leads to stagnation. Just as a garden needs tending to flourish, so does your marriage. Without effort, weeds of complacency and neglect can choke out the love you once shared.
Pursuing your spouse is about more than just keeping the romance alive; it's about building a relationship that honors God and reflects His love. When you prioritize your spouse, you create a marriage that not only survives but thrives.
Practical Steps to Pursue Your Spouse
Communicate Openly: Make time for meaningful conversations. Share your thoughts, dreams, and concerns with each other. Listen actively and speak with kindness.
Show Appreciation: Never underestimate the power of a simple "thank you." Acknowledge the little things your spouse does and express gratitude regularly.
Plan Date Nights: Set aside time for just the two of you. Whether it's a fancy dinner or a walk in the park, make it a priority to spend quality time together.
Serve Each Other: Follow Jesus' example of selfless love by putting your spouse's needs before your own. Acts of service can speak volumes.
Pray Together: Invite God into your marriage by praying together. Seek His guidance and strength to love each other well.
Conclusion
The key to a flourishing marriage is simple: Pursue your spouse like you could lose them. This pursuit requires effort, intentionality, and a commitment to love selflessly. So, what will you do this week to pursue your spouse? Will you take the time to show them they are your priority? Remember, a little pursuit goes a long way in keeping the love alive.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of marriage. Help us to pursue our spouses with the same passion and intentionality as when we first fell in love. Teach us to love selflessly and to prioritize our partners in all we do. May our marriages reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name. Amen.