We can make unreal images in our minds of our inner desires. These should be Bible based with reality. We can tumble or crumple if our ideas and dreams don’t come true. See Galatians 5:15. Lives can be wrecked or ruined by such foolish dreams.

1 – Unfulfilled Expectations Generate Frustration and Develop into Demands

See Galatians 5:13-15.

2 – Don’t Try and Meet Your Needs through Your Partner

This is the biggest single obstacle to a happy and successful Christian marriage. The Lord meets the needs for:-

• Security. See Romans 5:8.
• Significance. See Philippians 1:21.
• Self Worth. See Psalm 139:17-18.

3 – Facing Reality

The feeling of anger you may have because your partner does not fulfil your dreams is not their fault. The dream was either false from the start or you didn’t tell your partner what you expected.

• Choosing to accept. See 1 Peter 3:2.
• Choosing to admire. See Proverbs 3:27.
• Choosing to grow. See Hebrews 10:36.

4 – Commitment is the Key

It is the cross that tells us of our freedom. I am set free from the chains of legalism, criticism and fatalism.

• A vow is a vow. See Ecclesiastes 5:4.
• Why so little commitment?

1. Public opinion. See Deuteronomy 6:10-15.
2. Accommodating theology. See Ezekiel 33:30-33.
3. Delayed consequences. See Ecclesiastes 8:11.
4. Christian approval. See 1 Corinthians 5:1-7.

5 – Needed Clarification

See Psalm 56:1-6, 9-11.

6 – Persistence Pays Off

See 1 Corinthians 7:10-13.

7 – God Defends Unselfish Commitment

See 1 Corinthians 7:3-4. It is not possible to have all your needs met by any one human. Only the Lord can meet all our needs.

8 – Commitment Glories God

See 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. Food, clothing and shelter are promised to those who seek first God’s kingdom.

Categories: Galatians