Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Many times, in marriage we find ourselves in situations that cause us to be anxious, worked up or short-tempered. Oftentimes these emotions are driven by fear based on lies we believe about ourselves and/or our spouse. When these feelings rise up within us, we have to train ourselves to immediately pray. This is a perfect example of what Paul meant when he wrote in 1 Thessalonians to “pray without ceasing”.
Lies From the Enemy
When he [Satan] lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8:44b
Satan’s nature is to distort the truth. To use it to destroy the good that comes from the Lord. Because what God designs, Satan distorts. Our anxieties surface as we allow these lies to fester in our hearts and minds with the perception that nothing can change. Furthermore, anxieties increase when we refuse to claim the truths from God’s Word over our marriage. God created marriage, He can make it work! Claiming His truths is the only way to battle Satan’s lies.
Usually the end result of the enemy’s deception is toxic interactions with our spouse. Arguing, not communicating at all, resentment, unkind words, things that we wish we could take back. This is the road we go down when we fail to pray.
Truth From God
Releasing these anxieties and thoughts to the Lord through prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving is the answer. Our natural tendencies are to go to our friends, family, or anyone who will listen and share with them the frustrations, hurts, and dissatisfaction we are experiencing. Meanwhile, the One who has the answers is waiting for you to reach out to Him. And He wants you to reach out to Him together. Taking the time to invest in prayer together will create an environment of peace between you and your spouse.
Allow these thoughts to guide your prayer life as you seek the Lord together:
- Expose the lies of the enemy and call out truth
- Draw closer to your spouse rather than creating distance
- Even when it feels like there’s nothing, find something to be thankful for
- When you feel overwhelmed in the moment, look to the Lord and think eternally
