Why is it necessary for us to renew our minds? The scriptures command us to do so. It seems logical to assume that our minds were not automatically renewed when we converted. Therefore, we can infer that when we come to salvation, we bring with us old ways of thinking that need to be transformed. The process of salvation involves transforming our old mindset into the mindset of Christ. Our previous perspectives and thought patterns must be replaced with a Christ-centered, spiritual perspective, which reflects the truth. Given this, how can we effectively navigate the sacred bond of marriage using outdated, corrupted, worldly thinking with misconceptions about the roles of spouses? It is clear that we must renew our minds and adopt a new way of thinking. A Christ-like approach to understanding the institution of marriage is needed in order to thrive. The challenges and conflicts in marriage often stem from outdated thought patterns and perceptions. If two believers filled with the Holy Spirit both submit to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and consider their roles from a spiritual standpoint, how can discord be the norm? It seems highly unlikely that two individuals yielding to the Holy Spirit would be unable to find common ground and live harmoniously together.
When considering compatibility in the realm of computers, it is essential for hardware and software to be in harmony to function together effectively. This implies that the software I intend to install on my computer needs to be compatible with the computer itself. Essentially, the software (the application) needs to be in sync with the hardware (computer); both components must communicate in the same language. If the software I am trying to install on my computer is not compatible with the hardware, my computer will prompt me to update either the computer or the software to a different version. Essentially, this situation in technological terms signifies a lack of understanding between the application and the computer due to a language barrier. For this "partnership" between my software and hardware to operate smoothly, either the application needs to be a different version or the computer requires an update. Once one of these actions is taken, and the computer and application are in agreement, the application can be successfully installed on my computer, and I can enjoy its benefits.
How is downloading applications to my computer related to marriage? It is similar to the need for compatibility when two people are joined in matrimony. If their minds, perspectives, worldviews, and beliefs are not aligned, compatibility issues will arise. Fortunately, we are provided with the right "applications" by God that we can install into our hearts and minds as spouses, replacing any faulty programming with the correct version. This way, both partners can achieve compatibility by reaching mutual agreement in the Word. Similar to computer technology, a marriage can unlock its full potential once compatibility issues are resolved through a proper agreement on how the relationship should operate.
With that said, what can we conclude? We can conclude that the most important activity that a husband and wife can engage in together is prayer and Bible reading. When a husband and wife routinely make prayer and scripture reading together a priority, they invite Heaven's intervention into their marriage. I believe we take for granted the Holy Spirit's power to change hearts and minds. The things that annoy or offend you today may no longer do so after the heart has been changed. You will come to see your spouse in a whole new light after a change of heart. This change of heart is a cooperative effort between us and the Holy Spirit. Our humbleness and willingness to be guided and coached by the Holy Spirit allows him to work on our hearts and minds and guide us in a direction that will give us the results we are looking for. With proper respect for, and adherence to biblical standards for marriage; couples can resolve any incompatibility issues in marriage. You and your spouse are more compatible than you can know. Make prayer and scripture reading a priority in your marriage and experience spiritual unity with your spouse.
Comments