Pastor Faith Oyedepo: Monday April 18, 2016 daily devotional - Selflessness in Marriage

Topic: Selflessness in Marriage [April 18, 2016]

"Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."
-Galatians 6:7

Some people are so used to themselves that even when married, they tend to still live like it’s all about them and nobody else. This“Me, myself and I” attitude, has destroyed so many homes today. Another name for it is selfishness. Marriage is built on selflessness and courtesy, not self-centredness.

In fact, at the instance of your saying “I do” you should give away self to accommodate your partner’s needs and happiness. The truth is: It is your selflessness that brings fulfilment to you.

Jesus our perfect example despised the shame of dying the death of a criminal just to free us from the bondage of sin. He relinquished His throne to live on the earth, because of His love for us. So, why can’t we make sacrifices for our spouse and family? Some people would rather follow after their passion, without considering its effect on their family. Some even go as far as loving the comfort of their “personal space”, thereby leaving their spouse feeling unwanted.

If wives must be selflessly submissive to their husbands, then, husbands must love unconditionally. Selflessness means that you do the exact of what you want to be done to you, to your spouse, not minding if you are repaid. If you require to be loved, you must sacrificially show love. Love does not demand on its right, rather, it seeks to serve. The commandment of love to the man is to be courteous and respectful, not to be rude, bossy and arrogant. Likewise, submission means being selfless.

Marriage should not be built on you having all at the expense of others; you must consider meeting the expectations of your spouse also. That’s what true love and commitment entails. Your marriage is meant to bring you tremendous joy, but it depends on your selfless commitment to it.

Remain Blessed!