When Your Marriage or Family is in Crisis
At some point in your life, you will likely face some type of crisis in your marriage or family. Below are four biblical reminders for when you face serious family problems.
1. Trust God.
Do you believe God cares? Will you trust Him to meet your needs and heal your wounds? Do you really believe the Son of God loves you and died for your sins, was buried and rose from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:1-4)? Then remember what you believe when you are in the midst of conflicts, pain, and difficulties in your marriage or family.
I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. –Galatians 2:20
…casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. –1 Peter 5:7
And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. –Hebrews 11:6
2. Look to the Bible.
As you look to God in faith through the Scriptures, you will gain strength and wisdom.
God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able [to bear]. –1 Corithians 10:13
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. –Psalm 46:1
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. –Romans 8:28
3. Pray.
Ask God for wisdom to make the right decisions as you seek a Christian counselor. God promises to give you wisdom if you ask for it in faith. Trust God to direct your steps to the right counselor.
Commit your works to the Lord and your plans will be established. –Proverbs 16:3
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. –Philippians 4:6-9
But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting. –James 1:5-6a
4. Understand the problem.
It is important to realize that every marriage or family problem involves at least two people: you and the other person. How might you have contributed to the problem? How might you need to change? What attitudes and actions need to be addressed? The more you understand the problem, and how to address it, the more you will be able to follow God’s blueprints for your marriage and family.
By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established. –Proverbs 24:3
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