No Husband Left Behind
HIM & HER — Together (on the Same Page)
[Challenge]
Join Bible Study
Marriage is a decision not to go at life alone. So, why do we often get married and desire to do everything ourselves? Consider the possibility of joining a Bible study group, where you can network with “other married couples” who share a similar interest in the Christian faith.
Join:
Two of the most popular ways to enjoy a Bible study group is either “in person” or “virtual” (online). If you prefer to always meet face-to-face, you should start with the local churches within the geographic area where you live. On the other hand, if your preference requires a little more flexibility, you should probably evaluate and consider one of the online options.
If you have ever purchased an individual-based study booklet, you may have noticed the primary categories are often classified as either Biblical studies or topical studies. The first choice is designed to help you with the study of one or more books of the Bible (i.e. “Proverbs”). The second choice is for digging into “specific areas” of interest (i.e. “love”).
Whatever you decide is best, focus strongly on “practical application”, giving you some gold nuggets to apply to your life in the real world. If you focus on “theology” only, you may walk away with great ideas without any “homework” for making improvements within your life or marriage.
Give:
When joining a Bible study “group”, you are opening up yourself somewhat to contributing and sharing with others. This is a great reason to participate. Whether you realize it or not, you have so much to give. Helping out one or more people with “your thoughts and ideas” may help them to see how relevant God’s Word is for their unique challenges and opportunities.
Regardless of whether you join a group consisting exclusively of “married couples” or not, seek to connect with at least one other “husband and wife” team. Another couple in your network will be beneficial for both of you. Helping other married Christians will likely make you feel somewhat connected to a “stronger purpose”.
Sometimes, Bible study groups can be filled with mostly “older” (mature) individuals. Far better to locate and support a group with a wider “age” population. This will allow you to connect with those who have been married “less time than you”, giving you something to share of value while contributing to the solutions they really need. Those married “longer than you” will be worth your time also, especially when you need advice.
Receive:
Participating within a good Bible study group should provide you with an opportunity to “learn” from others. Especially those who have already successfully navigated those tempestuous waters which your relationship may be in the early stages. Networking is so beneficial when Christians can be of help to one another.
Though some couples may prefer to go in separate directions, like he joins a “men’s” Bible study group, while she signs up for the “women’s” group. Far better for the husband and wife to join the “same” study group, especially if the focus is on “Christian marriage”. Please feel free to decide what both of you feel is best. If you each join a different group, at least schedule some time afterwards to share and collaborate.
Lastly, consider what areas of “your” relationship which you feel either need some work or would benefit the most. The Bible is full of wisdom for everyone, especially those who have “tied the knot”. You and your life partner should invest your time studying and learning what both of you would be able to implement some level of successful progress and growth. As two of our Heavenly Father’s dear children, you and your main squeeze are already loved and cherished. Studying God’s Word will just help you to become even more awesome, together.
From one who forever remains…
“Under the Shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1),
Shawn Episcopo
Christian Community for Married Men and Women — (Knights) & (Damsels)