Love That Lasts: 30 Days to a Stronger MarriageSample

Doing What Comes Naturally

"Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me." (Psalm 51:5)

Humanistic and Christian psychologists differ significantly in how they view human nature. Secular psychologists see children as born “good,” or at least “morally neutral.” They believe children learn to do wrong from parental mistakes and a corrupt society.

As Christians, however, we know otherwise. Deep within our character is a self‐will that is inborn, part of our genetic nature. We desire to control people, our circumstances, our environment—we want what we want, and we want it now. Adam and Eve demonstrated this when they ate the forbidden fruit. Toddlers stamp their little feet and throw temper tantrums. Husbands and wives illustrate the same willfulness when they argue about how to spend money—or about whether the toilet paper should roll from the front or the back. King David referred to this basic human nature when he wrote, “In sin did my mother conceive me.”

Only Jesus Christ can help us deal with the depravity that leads us to be selfish, arrogant, and disobedient. He has promised to do for us what we are powerless to accomplish on our own. Let’s talk about that.

Questions for Today . . .

• Do you agree that humans are born with a bent toward sin? Why or why not?
• Is there an area of your life that used to be a struggle, but that you’ve given over to God with positive results?
• Do you think selfishness is a problem in your marriage?

Prayer . . .

Father, I admit my sinful and selfish ways. I look to You for forgiveness and healing. Thank You for Your mercies. I need Your power to change. Amen.

(Excerpted from Dr. James and Shirley Dobson’s book, Night Light for Couples. Used with permission.)

Bonus Content: Why Snow Is Important to Christians

As temperatures rise during the spring and summer months, most of us aren’t thinking about snow. But in this reel, Chris Bruin explains why keeping the image of this pristine white powder in our minds is essential. The Bible tells us that snow serves as a symbol of the purifying blood of Jesus that washes away our sins (Isaiah 1:18). Chris reflects on this imagery and how it helps us stay connected to the profound grace and redemption we have through Jesus Christ.