HELP FOR THE FAMILY/MARRIAGE

How to Strengthen Commitment

THE CHALLENGE 

On the day you got married, you made a vow.  That solemn promise was a lifelong commitment-a firm resolve to stick to your spouse and solve problems that would arise.

Over the years, however, the wear and tear of marital conflict has taken its toll.  Do you still feel as strongly committed to your mate?

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Commitment is the solution, not the problem.  Many people today are skeptical of commitment. Some would compare commitment to a ball and chain that shackles you to a bad decision. Instead, think of it as an anchor that can keep your marriage steady. A wife named Megan says, "During a conflict, one of the best things about commitment is knowing that neither you nor nor spouse is leaving."  Having confidence that the marriage itself is secure-even when certain aspects of it are in turmoil-can give you a foundation from which to resolve your problems. 

The bottom line: If you are experiencing problems in your marriage, now is the time to strengthen commitment, not question it. How can you do that? 

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Examine your view.   "Married for life." Does that phrase make you feel trapped, or does it make you feel secure?  When problems arise, does leaving always loom on the horizon as a viable option? To strengthen your commitment, it is essential that you view marriage as a permanent union. -Bible principle: Matthew 19:6.

Examine your history.  Your view of commitment might be influenced by what you observed in your parents.  "My parents divorced  when I was growing up," says a wife name Lea,  "and i worry that their experience may have left me with a negative view of commitment."  Be assured  that you can make things different in your own marriage.  You are not doomed to repeat your parents' mistakes! -Bible principle: Galatians 6:4, 5. 

Next time: HELP FOR THE FAMILY/MARRIAGE - How to Strengthen Commitment

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