Reality Strand 3: While we wait for God’s judgment, we are to obey Him and enjoy the pleasures He has provided.

“I know that everything God does will remain forever; there is nothing to add to it and there is nothing to take from it, for God has so worked that men should fear [obey] Him” (Ecclesiastes 3:14).

"There is nothing better for a man than to eat and drink and tell himself that his labor is good.  This also I have seen that it is from the hand of God.  For who can eat and who can have enjoyment without Him?" (Ecclesiastes 2:24-25).

Go then, eat your bread in happiness and drink your wine with a cheerful heart; for God has already approved your works….  Enjoy life with the woman whom you love all the days of your fleeting life which He has given to you under the sun; for this is your reward in life and in your toil in which you have labored under the sun (Ecclesiastes 9:7, 9).

As we trust and obey God, while moving through life’s marital journey in the wilderness of this world, He will supply an oasis from time to time – like a day off, an evening together, a secluded weekend, a vacation, etc.  Take advantage of them. They are God’s loving reminders that while life can at times be hard and even cruel, He still cares for His own and will ultimately right all wrongs and bring in His everlasting kingdom for all who have come to know Him in a personal way.

In light of this biblical reality check, prayerfully consider the following suggestions:

• Do your own reality check: Is your marriage characterized more by romanticism, pessimism, skepticism, cynicism, or realism?
  
  

• If you are in the midst of one of life’s storms, come together as a couple and pray.  It may not be a matter of sin on your part.  You may be under attack.  If it is a matter of sin, confess it to God and to each other.  Get others to pray with and for you.
  
  

• When is the last time, as a couple, that you really enjoyed one of God’s good oases?  When can you take advantage of the next one He brings your way?  Pray about it and thank God for all of His good gifts — especially in the midst of your wilderness journey.
  
  

© 2003 Christian Family Life

FREE - Would you like encouragement for your marriage?  Click here  to enjoy the Two Becoming One email devotional.  Receive a weekly email with principles and scriptures that will improve your marriage.

Two Becoming One  publications and small group resources help couples understand God's purposes, principles and provisions for marriage.  Many key concepts in Two Becoming One are taught in the popular FamilyLife Ministry marriage seminars.


If God created marriage, can He make it work?   Click here to purchase Two Becoming One, by Don and Sally Meredith.  You'll learn the five reasons why marriages fail, how to overcome trials and much more.  (A workbook for small groups or self study is also available.)