Tuesday, August 23, 2016

God values healthy relationships. He knows how destructive unhealthy relationships can be. He also knows how unhealthy relationships between people, and especially between husbands and wives, affect one‘s relationship with Him. This is especially true in the matter of prayer. That’s why Peter, in 1st Peter 3:7, points out in the conclusion of his instructions to husbands that if there is an unhealthy element in their relationship with their wives it could sabotage their prayer lives. He declares, “Husbands…Be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.” If there is static in your relationship with your spouse it will short-circuit your prayers to God. So if your prayer life seems to be ineffective, check the health of your marriage relationship. Ask God to restore the efficiency and enjoyment of your marriage relationship, and cooperate with Him when He prompts you to take steps of renewal, and as needed, reconciliation. Ask Him to fill you with love for your spouse so forgiveness and genuine appreciation and affirmation can be expressed and experienced. Then go to God in prayer and see what He will do. He wants to bless you and yours, and then make you a channel of blessing to others. You’ll be amazed at the answers to your prayers when that happens.