God's Seven-Sense Plan

Read

Genesis 2:24, "Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and cleaves to his wife, and they become one flesh."

Think

When nearly 50% of new marriages are destined for doom within approximately 8.2 years, and a good portion of the remaining 50% run the gamut from being in constant crisis mode to the monotony of do-what-ya-gotta-do-to-get-through, it’s pretty safe to say that the most critical earthly relationship — and our nation — are in crisis. Marriage is crucial for social stability! So, what’s to blame for this rapid decline? Too many are not sticking to the original Designer’s master marital plan! And His way works!In fact, God wastes no time in Scripture setting the precedent for this not- always- happy, but always holy union. No sooner than He provided Adam a fairer-sexed companion, did he present His plan. In Genesis 2:24, we see God's genius marital math formula: One man and one woman leave home and become one flesh (1 + 1 = 1 ). Here's the unpopular caveat: Becoming "one flesh" is to only occur after sacredly vowing “for better or worse until death do we part.” (Or, more bluntly — no sex until marriage!)But here’s what most problematic marriages don’t realize — the number one leading cause of divorce isn’t infidelity, abuse, addiction, or financial stress. Forty-three percent of marriages end due to incompatibility! The everyday things that even the most dynamic, thriving couples argue about are the same things that cause far too many to call it quits.So what’s the secret to marital success? Nothing else provides better odds of stability, stick-a-bility, and capability to thrive than a marriage anchored in the unconditional, sacrificial love of Christ. How can we extend God’s amazing love towards our spouse and others? We tap into our self-awareness by seizing on seven vital abilities God gave us. We do this by noticing:1. What we see2. What we hear3. What we smell4. What we taste5. What we think6. What we feel inside7. What we touch tangiblyThe moment we choose to turn to God and view life the way God intended, we begin to heal in every way. He helps us to see ourselves the way He sees us and our marriages begin to realign. So, no matter what box you check when it comes to your current relational status — Married, Single, Divorced, Widowed, or “It’s complicated” — we can all be better when we take a census of our seven senses so we can not merely survive in marriage and the other crucial relationships in our lives, but thrive in light of God’s master plan for every woman and man!

Act

Take a census of your senses! Today, start this journey by simply taking notice of the seven senses listed above and thank God for the ability to experience such unique flavors, sights, sounds, etc.

Pray

Heavenly Father, Thank You for taking the initiative to express Your love to me. Help me love my spouse and others as You love — unconditionally and without judgment. In Jesus’ name, Amen.