Marriage MattersSample

Soul Mates Becoming soul mates is one of your marriage’s highest priorities. Finding soul satisfaction in the one you marry is a life-long beautiful and worthy pursuit. Instead of saying “I married my soul-mate” let’s challenge ourselves to the thought of “becoming soulmates” with the one that we married. Tending our own souls and the soul of our marriage is like tending a garden. It takes regular intention and cannot be ignored for undue periods of time. So how do we go about doing that? It won’t accidentally happen. Let’s ponder things that tie souls together. As spiritual beings, one of our first priorities would be to find a commonplace/practice for worship and spiritual development. Come into an agreement on a plan to gather with like-minded believers and hear the truth from an inspired and outside source. This weekly practice will provoke life-giving input and conversation that will increase soul ties. Serving others together is another healthy part of a soul-satisfying marriage. There is something deeply rewarding about serving others. It is not only good for the ones you serve, it also makes us happier and healthier too. These good feelings are reflected in the biology of our souls. Serving alongside your spouse not only connects you to each other but also to others, creating stronger communities where you live. Scientists believe that altruistic behavior releases endorphins in the brain, producing a positive feeling known as the “helper's high.” This doesn’t just make the world better—it also makes you better. Studies indicate that the very act of giving back to others and our communities boosts our happiness, health, self-esteem, and sense of well-being. Feeling good about yourself is something no one can take away from you. Serving others together is a fulfilling soul-tying marriage activity. Another way to intentionally build your soul connection with your spouse is through shared activities. A marriage cannot thrive on two ships just passing in the night. We must actually enjoy times together outside the responsibilities to our home and our children. Consider a weekly or periodic date night. Take turns planning what that looks like. Also consider a physical activity together like walking, sports, working out together, etc. We did activities together when we were dating. Keep that spark alive. And finally, but maybe most importantly, consider praying together. This can become a habit that pays HUGE dividends. There is something particularly romantic when our loved one takes our concerns before the Lord. That is not the reason to pray together…just a side benefit. You can simply start by praying at meals together, then move to praying over heavy heart concerns. The ultimate would be to end up praying daily together as a soul-tying habit for love and connection. “Neglect the rest of the world if you have to but never neglect each other.” Whatever you choose, be intentional. Recognizing the importance of soul-ties and the wise investment to develop such, is a key foundation for a good marriage. Ponder: What are some choices you can make to catalyze greater soul-connections with your spouse? How are you intentionally gardening the soul of your marriage? Prayer: Lord, I want a marriage that reflects and honors You and our covenant vow of love together. Guide us to connecting our soul to You first and then to one another as an outpouring of that relationship.