Over at Chrysalis, it’s Marriage Monday, a monthly session hosted by e-Mom. I love the topics selected because they force me to think more deeply about my own marriage and examine what God expects of it. This month’s topic is no exception – Marriage: For Happiness or Holiness?.
My take on the topic is short and simple: Holiness leads to happiness. Once couples commit to following God’s commandments and set themselves apart from the world’s approach to marriage, happiness will follow. This is outlined in Psalm 128:1-4:
Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in his ways. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours. Your wife will be like a fruitful vinewithin your house; your sons will be like olive shoots around your table. Thus is the man blessed who fears the Lord.
The benefits of holiness are clearly outlined in the passage: prosperity, blessings, a productive spouse, and children.
Do not think I’ve donned my rose colored glasses and become oblivious to conflicts in marriage. Not so. Just because we have committed to holiness in marriage, does not mean our marriages will be free of stress and conflict. Rather, holiness simply determines how we respond to these conflicts. When God is guiding us, we address our marital conflicts by using the fruit of spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.Our holiness works to cultivate happiness in marriage.
To see what other women in the Chrysalis community think about this topic, please visit here.
© 2008 – 2013, Andrea Thorpe. All rights reserved.
Great job! I agree, holiness and happiness work together.
Hey Angela,
This was great! I love the scripture you shared. Yes, holiness does lead to happiness!!
Blessings to you?
I would like to stand up and applaud! I agree, holiness leads to happiness. Your summary of this verse makes it so clear:
“Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in his ways. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours. Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your sons will be like olive shoots around your table. Thus is the man blessed who fears the Lord.”
Thank you for contributing to Marriage Monday today, Andrea. Your spiritual wisdom is an asset to this group.
Blessings, e-Mom @ Chrysalis
Thanks e-Mom! You’re the one who deserves the applause! Your insight is a blessing to every one of your readers!
Susan, I love that passage of scripture too! It’s always great to see where God directs you when you study his Word.
Have a wonderful day!
Jennifer, thanks for reading! This was a great topic to explore. Have a great day!
Excellent post. Amen!!
Wow, great scripture quote. Your post really made me think.
Many blessings
i love what you’ve got to say! and a lovely blog too!
Lynn, I appreciate your kind words! Thanks for poking your head in:)
Amydeanne, thanks for the encouragement. I’m glad you visited.
Linnet, thanks for stopping by. I’m glad you found some food for thought 🙂