I Peter 3:8-9
“Summing up: Be agreeable, be sympathetic, be loving, be compassionate, be humble. That goes for all of you, no exceptions. No retaliation. No sharp-tongued sarcasm. Instead, bless—that’s your job, to bless. You’ll be a blessing and also get a blessing.”
“Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, keep a humble attitude. Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will grant you his blessing.”
For my husband and I, this is a better instruction for marriage. When we move toward each other with this purpose everything works. If we turn to our own selfishness, the problems we make for ourselves seem unsolvable. But thanks be to God who rescues us! There is always a way out and it is named Jesus Christ.
Lord, thank you for my husband who had stuck around these 51 years. Many times he could have walked out the door. I am grateful he stayed to fight with me towards wholeness. Now, having come so far, I am filled with thanksgiving beyond words. You are so good to us. I trust you for whatever the future brings.