We never know when our story can be used as inspiration for someone else who may be currently experiencing the same thing. I am blessed because every day, at my daytime job, I get to hear stories of triumph. People who have overcome many of life’s toughest struggles share how they became victorious. Hearing their stories confirms that people can overcome any challenge, if they so choose. We know that in everyday life there are certain battles like job loss, illness, financial challenges and more. Our marriages are subjected to trials and those tests that either break us or make us stronger. It’s worth celebrating when we are made stronger as a result of them.
Our marriage test came as a result of my health back in 2003. I became seriously ill after the birth of our second child. It was an extremely scary time for the both of us. During that time, not knowing what the outcome would be, I remained prayerful. I know my husband did too. One of the many great things about my spouse is his ability to ease my worries and my fears. He has taken on that responsibility as the head of our family. He helps to release a lot of my concerns because of his confidence and his faith. My husband is truly the rock of our family, making sure our children were taken care of as I had to spend time in the hospital. He managed to do all that while staying all night (each night) by my side. If he was ever afraid, I never knew, which I am sure was his intent. This test truly strengthened our marriage. I thank God for seeing us through. “In sickness and in health” was all I kept thinking about as I healed. I feel that going through this test together successfully would equip us to handle anything else that might come our way.
Whether it is health related, financial or having to deal with infidelity, couples are surviving these ordeals and coming out on top. As Joyce Meyer states in her daily devotions “to test something means to put pressure on it to see if it will do what it says it will do.” Marriage tests show up to remind us of our vows. Will we adhere to them as we go through trying situations? These may not be the conversations we necessarily want to bring up often or discuss frequently (as I had tears in my eyes just typing the above paragraph). These situations are an opportunity to bless other couples. I believe there are people who visit BMWK, who probably never comment, but actually need the words of encouragement that are provided here every day. I want to use my marriage to inspire others. It is comforting to know we are not alone and it’s always encouraging to hear success stories, especially in marriage.
BMWK, please share the marriage test you and your spouse have survived and how you did it.