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Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32 (MSG)

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Most of us fall in love – it’s like falling into a swimming bath’s deep end. One is often in danger of drowning in love at first.

Then it’s the norm for most people to find sensitivity and gentleness normal and really easy. That’s before we have discovered the irritating habits he or she has. OR before we have managed to let each other down or had a bad row when one or both of us has been abusive. I am not sugaring this! The reality is that we do this stuff.

If we are honest, we are disappointed with each other. Our “dream” has dissolved! We might even wonder if we made a mistake! That’s when we have to go beyond “falling in LOVE” and learn to swim!

As Christians, LOVE (that’s who God is) – lives in our innermost core. So we have more than just our own resources for loving our partner. The question is will we choose to use those resources?

Question 1: What can I do today/ this week to show gentleness and sensitivity?

Question 2: Do I need to forgive him/ her?

Lastly: what will I do?

(Decide and implement!)

Prayer (as a couple)

O God You are undiluted LOVE. Our love seems to get weak when we struggle with each other’s imperfections. We have hurt and misunderstood each other many times. Help us to learn how to swim in your love. To use your love and “adopt it” as our own and give it as a gift to each other. Holy Spirit, teach us creative ways to love each other and show us new things to appreciate about each other. Help us to learn how to be less selfish too. Amen

Prayer (for others)

Father: We pray for (anyone you know?) who is so disappointed with their marriage that they are falling out of love and considering parting. Holy Spirit – remind them of what they used to love about each other. Help them to repair their broken hearts and build trust again. Show us if we can help. Amen

Final quote

So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Galatians 6 v 9