Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
Ephesians 4:2
34 years ago I chose this scripture to be engraved on my husband’s wedding ring. I chose it for us and he agreed. We naively chose it for our scriptural marital mantra.
And we didn’t have a clue of the depth of meaning we would find over our lifetime together.
These words were a sweet reminder for newlyweds learning to live in one house.
A scriptural elbow nudge providing a place of retreat when the storms of life beat us up.
These words were repeated back to us through the tiny voices of chubby-cheeked little boys as they learned to be brothers and share family life.
Too, these God words have been the strong anchors of empty nesting years and learning to fall in love all over again.
~~~
Be completely humble. Be patient.
I need these words every day. The reminder to humble myself is a staple as I get ready to face a new day of only God knows what. Probably he needs these words too.
Moment by moment as I watch him try to have patience with himself I am reminded to slow down.
Wait. Be patient.
We will get there.
And bear with one another?
Well, honestly, there’s no one else with whom I would rather bear. This dear man is my best friend. He makes me laugh (almost) every day. You just can’t even imagine the fun we enjoy in the midst of very real physical challenges.
We love because He first loved us.
1 John 4:19 NIV
In love?
Absolutely. Not manufactured human waffling love. Not fickle. God has done it. He’s grown the love and rooted it down deep in the soil that makes us one.
We could not have known 34 years ago the course we had chosen with these few precious words. And yet we’ve only begun to plumb the depths of all God has for us.
Grateful. We’ve decided to choose grateful.
God’s Word is rich seed!
Thank YOU, God, for continuing to cultivate this garden. For Your glory.
Amen.
Eyes on Jesus… you will shine,
~Lisa
Ponders:
Do you have a scriptural life mantra?
Perhaps write these words out today. Look at the words from different angles emphasizing various words. Like studying a diamond in the light by turning it to view the different facets.
Possibly read this scripture using a variety of Bible translations.
How have you noticed God shaping various aspects of your life through these few words?
Thank God today for the richness of His Word and the living seed that it is in your life.
If you don’t have a scriptural mantra, perhaps start today by reading the Bible. Find in God’s love letter to you the words that breathe life into your soul.
Today is a good day to begin a relationship with Jesus. He loves you so! Just say yes!!
