Grace to Become One

When my wife, Jean, and I first entered premarital counseling, we had no doubts that we were meant for each other.

We enjoyed most of the same things and felt we were alike in almost every way.

By the time we finished our last session a week later, that had all changed.

Our certainty had faded, and we were both thinking, "Wow, we're more different than we thought.

Is our marriage gonna be okay?" No matter how much you and your spouse have in common, you'll eventually discover parts of your relationship where you don't mesh at all.

In that moment, your efforts to become one will be challenged.

Each of you will feel like your spouse ought to see the world the same way you do.

Instead of battling each other at every turn, a better approach is found in grace.

Grace is what becoming one is all about.

Couples never know each other perfectly.

Marriage is an unfolding mystery, a day-by-day discovery of what it means to love and sacrifice for another person.

You never know fully what in sickness and in health means until one of you actually gets sick.

You won't know what for better or for worse means until one of you does something unlovable and you stay committed to your marriage anyway.

To become one flesh, embrace your mate's differences.

Sacrifice your desires on behalf of your spouse.

Extend grace and allow your differences to bring you together instead of driving you apart.