Honoring God in Marriage
Pastor Afshin recently preached on “Honoring God in Marriage” from First Peter 3:1-7. In his sermon, he talked about how receiving a new identity by faith in Christ (e.g., born again [1:3], called [2:9], beloved [2:11]) enables and empowers his people to live out their God-given roles in marriage (3:1, 7). To encourage husbands and wives to stay grounded in the gospel, the power of God for salvation from beginning to end (Romans 1:16), he gave helpful questions to ask to help cultivate a marriage that is growing in the gospel.
Plan and devote time to ask each other the following questions. (Remember, husbands, God has placed the privilege and burden of responsibility to lead on you, so initiate asking these questions and lead in humbly repenting and seeking forgiveness!).
Questions that cultivate a marriage that is growing in the gospel:
- Take some time to affirm and encourage your spouse. What evidences of grace do you see in their life? What fruit of the Spirit have you seen evidenced this past year? How have you seen them grow?
- Is there any way that I have hurt you in this past year? Have I neglected to ask for your forgiveness in any particular areas?
- What are your biggest needs from me this coming year?
- What are some tangible ways that I can better help in your work or in parenting?
- What do you think are some hindrances to our having a healthy, vibrant marriage and family?
- What are some tangible ways that I can make you feel loved and cherished this coming year?
- For the husband: In what areas do you think that I can better love you, as Christ loved the church, and lead our family (spiritually, relationally, physically, socially)?
- For the wife: In what areas do you think that I can support and encourage you and your leadership of our family?
- What are some things on your heart that you have kept hidden and want me to know and understand?
Learn more:
- Listen to Afshin’s sermon on “Honoring God in Marriage” from 1 Peter 3:1-7.
- Marriage: 6 Gospel Commitments Every Couple Needs to Make, by Paul David Tripp.
- Podcast: What Your Marriage Needs Most (Paul David Tripp).
