SOAP: Serving, not being served, is key. And that includes marriage.

Last week at Pine Cove Crier Creek, during the adult teaching time, Craig and Carrie Langemeier mentioned the books Sacred Marriage and Sacred Parenting by Gary Thomas. Since then, I have been savoring a read through Sacred Marriage, taking it a chapter a day so I can really think through the principles.

The verse that grabbed me from today’s Bible reading most definitely backed up what I am learning in the book. But it’s not only for marriage.

Scripture

Adopt the same attitude as that of Christ Jesus, who, in existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be exploited.  -Philippians 2:5-6

Observation

Jesus was the ultimate VIP– and yet he served and loved and didn’t claim the “VIP seats” or status.

Application

Where in my life can I serve more instead of wanting/ expecting the VIP status… or to be served? I can certainly work on this in my. marriage. I want to be revered. Instead I should focus on serving as Christ served those he loved.

Prayer

Father, my selfish, sinful, human self wants to be served. But that is not the best way… and that is not what you showed me how to do, nor is it what you want me to do and it is not what I was designed to do.

You created me to follow you, and service is a big part of that. And that includes serving my husband better.

Please help me, Father, as I retrain myself to see marriage as an opportunity to emulate YOUR behavior, to serve you by serving my husband in love. I want to live my life more like you direct. Of course I want my marriage to be stronger. Serving, rather than expecting service, is one way I can do that. Help me to set aside my selfishness and serve more. And please continue to bless our marriage.

Thank you, Father.

In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen

**Thanks for reading with me today. I don’t know what your marital status is or what your marriage is like. I do know that this verse applies to me in my marriage. My marriage is safe and kind and my husband and I have respect for each other. If there is abuse in your marriage or in any of your relationships, please seek professional guidance.

In love,