It's the every little thing...(For marriage couples!)

Marriage is in the very center of God covenant relationship with His people. A happy and strong marriage speaks volumes of God's covenant love that never give up on us.

Sadly, in this modern world, marriage is cheap. People get married as soon as they file for divorce. As much as two of them were intoxicated with the 'romantic' feeling which was thought to be love, they fail to know what Love is all about.

Love is about the every little thing. The secret to closeness in marriage (not that I dare to say I know it all) I discover that are not the mushy gushy words, not the shared similarities and interests or the intoxicating sexual union.

Although these gives pleasure but they do not contribute towards the foundation of true love.

It is the everyday thing that we take for granted when we get to know each other too well. Things like caring for one another, being sensitive to one another's feelings, racing to serve one another and respecting each other.

As some say, familiarity breeds contempt. This does not have to be the case in the God-ordained marriage. There are five little things that has helped my marriage and I want to share with others too.

1) Give each other huggies and kisses everyday. Don't be afraid of too much, only afraid of too few. "Hearts may agree though heads differ." I do not know about you, but for me, everytime I get mad, anxious or sad, all I need are not words of comfort or wisdom but a big bear hug. You have no idea how much that would do to comfort the storm within. Not surprisingly, it goes the same for my husband. Even the animals which reflect the nature of their Creator enjoy the physical bond which consequently strengthen the emotional bonds. That is why if you are not married, hands off!

2) Remember the 'small' things!

Be consistent in showing kindness to one another. Go out of your way to serve one another. They are not rocket science, just things like helping to wash the dishes, ironing clothes when your spouse is tired/busy, doing the laundry, helping to tidy the house and take out the garbage. These may sound insignificant but if practiced regularly shall be the pillar of strength later when challenges arise.

3) Don't forget your manners :)

Words like 'Thank you so much', 'I'm sorry' and 'Please' may fly out of the window if you are not intentional with the people closest to us. The best example is our family. I know that I needed to thank my mum and dad, my brothers more and to tell them how much they mean to me. Pride may come in the way or the awkwardness of not having to do it enough as my family was not great in words of affirmation. These words can transform your marriage!

4)Compliment each other

Remember not to take each other for granted. Always tell them how amazing you think they are. We may be so in love or inspired by your husband but sometimes we may forget to tell them what we think. Let them know how precious he/she is to you; how much they mean to you.

'I love you' as opposed to what my Chinese culture say, need to be said in words everyday. Don't believe the lie that love should only be expressed once in a blue moon or that it will lose its true significance. If said from the botton of your heart, your spouse will definitely appreciate it.

Last but not least,

5)Pray for one another

I see the differences when I was trying to work things out on my own and when I surrender my husband to God. We can never help he/she in their struggles or weaknesses without God's help. Don't be deceived that as long as we have done our part, things will happen the way they should. Praying for one another is so important if you want to see God's hand on your marriage.

With God in the centre, we can rest assured that whatever happens, He is in control and that He works all things for good for those who love Him and who has been called according to His purpose.

Be blessed and keep shining in your marriage for the glory of our Heavenly King! :)