Marriage is God's Idea

We are starting a NEW series on LOVE and MARRIAGE. Join us for the next 6 weeks as we break down God's idea of marriage and speak messages that encourage, build up, restore, and challenge your marriage to go to the next level. "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves," -Philippians 2:3 NIVGreek Terms that We Translate to Love: 1.) Feeling Love "How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how beautiful! Your eyes behind your veil are doves. Your hair is like a flock of goats descending from the hills of Gilead. Your teeth are like a flock of sheep just shorn, coming up from the washing. Each has its twin; not one of them is alone. Your lips are like a scarlet ribbon; your mouth is lovely. Your temples behind your veil are like the halves of a pomegranate. Your neck is like the tower of David, built with courses of stone; on it hang a thousand shields, all of them shields of warriors." -Song of Solomon 4:1-4 NIV Romantic love is a wonderful gift from God that we share in our marriage. It’s not only an enjoyable part of marriage, it’s a vital part. How can you restore the passion and excitement to your life and to marriage? Give attention to your relationship!2.) Friendship LoveThe best marriages are those in which the partners not only fall in love, but choose each other as best friends! Marriage is friendship that catches fire. How can you grow in your friendship in your marriage?3.) Forever LoveFeelings love and friendship love are both based on mutual enjoyment, satisfaction, and fulfillment. Forever love is the cares so much for another that he or she gives with no expectation in return. Jesus Christ is the best representation of this love. "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." -John 13:34 NIVIn marriage, a forever love endures the ups and downs of feelings love and of friendship love. This is the love that transcends romantic feelings and surges of devotion. It is not based on feelings, but on an enduring commitment to one another. "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." -1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIVHow can you strive for a 3 love (Feelings Love, Friendship Love, Forever Love) marriage this week? How can you best serve your spouse? How can you intentionally show them love?