REINVIGORATING YOUR MARRIAGE BOND

People react in various ways to reaching middle age.  Some men dress differently in an attempt  to appear younger.  Many women worry about the changes that menopause brings. Sadly, some middle-ages persons provoke their mates to resentment and jealousy by flirting with younger members of the opposite sex.  Godly older  men, though, are "sound in mind," curbing improper desires.  (1 Peter 4:7) Mature women likewise work to maintain the stability of their marriages, out of love for their husbands and a desire to please Jehovah.

Under inspiration, King Lemuel recorded praise for the "capable wife" who rewards her husband "with good, and not bad, all the days of her life."  A Christian husband will not fail to appreciate how his wife strives to cope with any emotional upset she experiences during the middle years.  His love will prompt him to 'praise her.' -Proverbs 31:10, 12, 28.

During the busy child-rearing years, both of you may have gladly put aside your personal desires to attend to your children's needs. After their departure it is time to refocus your married life.  "When my daughters left home," says one one husband, "I began courting my wife all over again."  Another husband  says:  "We keep an eye  on each other's health and remind each other of the need for exercise."  So as not to feel lonely, he and his wife show hospitality to other members of the congregation. Yes, showing interest in others  brings blessings. Moreover, it pleases Jehovah. -Philippians 2:4; Hebrews 13:2, 16. 

Do no allow a communication gap to develop between you and your spouse.  Talk together freely.  (Proverbs 17:27)  "We deepen our understanding of each other by caring and being considerate," Comments one husband.  His wife agrees, saying:  "As we have grown older, we have come to enjoy having tea together, conversing, and cooperating with each other."  Your being open and honest  can help cement your marriage bond, giving it a resilience that thwart the attacks of Satan, the marriage wrecker.  

Next time: ENJOY YOUR GRANDCHILDREN

From the book: THE SECRET OF FAMILY HAPPINESS,  1996