Seven Year Itch?

I'm back to blogging outside the adoption blog. Things are sort of settling down with Jada. She's adjusting very well and we may just be gettin' into the groove very soon.

I took a Sociology class on the family 2 semesters ago and we talked about an interesting statistic. In surveys about marriage and divorce, the highest divorce rate occurs between the 2nd and 3rd years of marriages. Yes, that means the 7 year itch has decreased down to 2 years.

This little facts is one of the reasons I like working with engaged couples at HPC. We mentor engaged couples using "Preparing For Marriage", a bible study by Family Life. It's a GREAT tool for helping engaged couples discuss issues before the wedding. Helps to minimize the 'surprises' that can sneek up on newlyweds.

It's obvious that marriage is under major attack in the social and spiritual arena. Divorce rates are similar for church goers and non church goers. I can't think of a better ministry to serve in. Just think how important it is to have a Christ centered marriage. A strong marriage can help you serve the local church with your time, talent & treasure. A strong marriage can help you be better parents to your children by being a living example God's intention for marriage. A strong marriage can give you the peace and confidence to excel at your profession. A strong marriage is pleasing to God, it honors God and most importantly, laying down your life, your needs and wants is mirroring the image of Christ to your spouse. Being Christlike is always a good thing to do.

Need a marriage checkup? We all do. I really encourage you to take advantage of the many tools available through your local church or Christian literature that can help you take your marriage to the next level. Christ came to give us life and life abundantly, that includes our marriages.