Last week my man and I celebrated 17 years of marriage and our first born's 13th birthday! It was a whirlwind of a weekend! In the midst of celebrations, we had football games and mariachi performances! On our anniversary we were serving nachos in the concession stand of a football game. This is my life.
Seventeen years! Wow! I can't believe I'm old enough to have done anything consistently for 17 years. It's been a winding wonderful road. I've been asked "If someone could have said one thing to you before you got married, what would it have been?" My answer "Buckle up!"
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| August 24, 1996 |
It's been a ride. Highs have been high and lows have been low. I look at those faces 17 years ago and think "clueless!" Ha! We loved each other don't misunderstand. But neither of us knew the depth of love and sacrifice we were about to embark upon. We didn't know.
I am so glad that the Lord kept us and still holds us. If it were left up to us we would have driven this thing into the ground. We had so many personal obstacles, unreasonable expectations, and worldly views of marriage. By the absolute Grace of God we are still together and have the privilege of encouraging others in their marriages! To God be the Glory...
This isn't a post about how wonderful marriage has been. It has been that. We've shared so many incredible years. My husband can still walk into a room and take my breath away! It's not about how hard it's been. It has been that. We don't have the time to even begin! :)
This post is about Grace in marriage. In spite of everything we've been through, Grace kept us. It loved us. It carried us. When we wanted to walk away, it reminded us of the covenant we made with God and each other. When we laughed through great times, Grace strengthened us. Grace is for us.
If I could say anything to encourage someone in marriage it would be:
- It's not always fair, Don't expect it.
- You may give more one season and your spouse may give more the next.
- Only Christ can complete you, not your spouse.
- Love is sacrifice not a feeling.
- Walking in your Role is important. Know it.
- God's Word is the authority not your feelings.
- Arguing is healthy.
- Making up is even better.
- Laugh together.
- Hold hands.
- Forgive like you want to be forgiven.
- Accept that your spouse's weaknesses are different than yours
- ALWAYS PRAY TOGETHER
- Love your kids but never before your marriage (Your marriage is their foundation.)
- Live your life understanding that a Godly healthy marriage and a healthy family are the enemy's biggest threats. YOU ARE KINGDOM BUILDING! He wants your marriage and your children broken. He is your enemy not each other.
- Marriage still works!
I'm looking forward to many more years with this man! We often say that no one else is crazy enough to be with us. So we might as well be together!
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| 17 years later! Happy Anniversary Honey! |
Blessings!
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