"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." — Ecclesiastes 3:1
Marriage is a journey, not a destination. It’s a story written in seasons—some exhilarating, others refining, all necessary. Every couple who commits to building a godly marriage will walk through different stages, but how long they remain in each stage depends on their wisdom, love, and willingness to grow together.
1. The Wonder Stage: "Bone of My Bone"
"Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." — Genesis 2:24
This is the "Wow!" season—where everything is new, fresh, and exciting. The reality of sharing life together brings joy and adventure: whispering sweet nothings, holding hands everywhere, being in awe of your spouse’s presence, and experiencing the thrill of intimacy. Every moment is an unfolding mystery, and you feel blessed beyond measure.
But wonder, though beautiful, is not a foundation—it is a gift that must be stewarded.
2. The Irritation Stage: "Why Do You Do That?"
"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." — Ephesians 4:2
Reality sets in. The little quirks that were once endearing now test your patience. The toothpaste cap left open, the socks on the floor, the way they chew too loudly, or how they always forget what you just said. This is where illusions shatter, and reality takes its place.
Many assume something is "wrong" at this stage. But nothing is wrong—it’s simply the refining of love.
3. The Frustration Stage: "Did I Make a Mistake?"
"Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger." — Ephesians 4:26
Here, irritation turns into frustration. Words become sharper, silence grows heavier, and unresolved issues create distance. One or both partners may wonder, "Did I marry the wrong person?"
This is where many marriages struggle. But it is also where true love can begin—because love is not about finding perfection but learning to love through imperfection.
4. The Resolution Stage: "Let’s Figure This Out"
"Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?" — Amos 3:3
At this stage, couples begin to realize that anger and resentment solve nothing. They start choosing love over ego, conversation over assumptions, and humility over pride. Compromise is no longer seen as losing—it’s seen as building.
This is where love matures, because love that cannot withstand pressure is not love—it is convenience.
5. The Acceptance Stage: "I Love You, As You Are"
"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." — 1 Peter 4:8
The realization dawns: some things about your spouse may never change. And that’s okay. The goal is no longer to "fix" them but to love them as Christ loves you. You begin to celebrate their uniqueness rather than criticize their flaws.
You trade control for trust, judgment for grace, and resentment for joy.
6. The Restful Stage: "I Choose You—Again and Again"
"His banner over me is love." — Song of Solomon 2:4
This is where love becomes deeper than emotions, attraction, or even companionship—it becomes a covenant you cherish. You embrace your spouse fully, not because they are perfect, but because you have chosen to love them as Christ loves you.
Here, your marriage flourishes. You find joy in the small things, laughter replaces tension, and you reconnect at a soul level. Intimacy is no longer just physical—it is emotional, spiritual, and deeply fulfilling.
Every Season Has Purpose
There is no "perfect" marriage, but there is a godly marriage—a marriage rooted in grace, patience, wisdom, and Christ. Every couple will walk through these seasons, but the length of each stage is determined by how they respond.
- Will you choose grace over frustration?
- Will you choose love over ego?
- Will you trust God's process rather than resist it?
If Christ is at the center, every season—no matter how hard—will produce a love that endures.
Marriage is not just about surviving. It’s about thriving.
It’s about becoming better, not bitter.
"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." — 1 Corinthians 13:13
#BeBetter #LoveBetter #DoBetter #MarriageWorks
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