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Regardless and Forever: Living happily ever after
In the Word
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity (Colossians 3:13–14 NIV).
Of the Word
If you haven’t figured it out yet, you will very soon: you’re married to a sinner. If that isn't bad enough, your spouse is married to one, too! You may be perfect for each other, but you’re both a long way from being perfect.
How are spouses supposed to live “happily ever after” when sinners cannot be in one another’s presence without hurting, disappointing, or annoying each other on a fairly regular basis? The same way we are allowed to be in God’s presence: through forgiveness. Your wedding vows probably included a phrase similar to, “’til death do us part.” That means you have promised to love your spouse until you die, regardless of the injuries that sin will bring to your relationship.
Determine to love each other even when you don’t feel like it. Talk through your grievances. Seek help if your struggle becomes too great. Love each other — regardless and forever — the way God loves you!
Walking with my Lord
Dear Lord, thank You for loving us regardless of our sin. Please teach us to love each other the same way, with patience and forgiveness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Mustard Seed: With this Ring. Authors: Rev. Wes and Deaconess Sonja Baumeister. 10/28 ©2008, revised 2024 Lutheran Women's Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™
