How Forgiveness and Patience Can Help Your Marriage - by Joyce Meyer

Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost [of sinners], Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example or pattern for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.

— 1 Timothy 1:16

Marriages are not as good as they could be when someone holds on to offenses and hurts that their spouse has caused. I know it’s difficult to completely open yourself up when you’ve been hurt, but nobody can promise that loving someone won’t hurt. In fact, you can’t really love without being willing to be hurt. It’s not possible.

Real love shows mercy and forgives. Love keeps giving the other person another chance. Love is willing to keep trusting them over and over again, expecting them to do the right thing the next time, believing the best of them.

I realize there might be big hurts in your marriage, along with little things you deal with daily. Still, you need to decide to let go of its irritating hold on you. Then, pray and lean on God for the grace and strength to truly forgive.

If you’re struggling with unforgiveness in your marriage, ask the Lord to reveal what has caused you to feel bitterness or resentment. You may be surprised at what He reveals to you, but when you see the truth, decide to let go of the offense. Decide to forgive your spouse and walk in patience as you treat them with God’s amazing, unconditional love.