Do You Want To Make Something Of It?

“Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8.

In Sunday’s message we talked about what type of marriage and/or relationship we want to create. What should we be aiming for when we are looking for a wife or a husband? What should we be looking to accomplish once married? Building a godly marriage takes more than saying wedding vows and then living together. It takes determination and intentionality to live out your wedding vows. And it takes love. When thinking of relationships and marriage, 1 Peter 4:8 is a verse that should be highlighted, written down, meditated on and recited over and over no matter if you are dating, newlyweds or celebrating your 50th wedding anniversary.

There is a major difference between what the world considers love and God’s view of love. Culture’s view of love is transitory, dependent on circumstances. God’s love perseveres no matter what the circumstances, no matter the obstacles. When a couple is rooted in God’s principles for marriage, they can endure all that life throws at them. Love conquers all obstacles.

1 Corinthians 13:3 (MSG) says life without love is worthless and wasted: “…no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I’m bankrupt without love.”

Most people would agree that love is critical if we are to be successful in marriage and in our relationships. But if it is really about love, why don’t we have time for the people we love? Because we’re busy. We focus our time and effort on other causes and put our relationships on the back burner. But nothing can take the place of love. Life is not about achievement or balanced schedules or recognition. It’s about love.

When you are in the process of planning what you want to create in your marriage, remember 1 Peter 4:9. Love your spouse like Jesus, not how the world does. That means to forgive. That means loving unconditionally, not to love based on works and expectations. Love covers over a multitude of sins and if we want to create a godly relationship with all our faults, expectations and past, we need that statement to be the central theme of any relationship. The verse will make you stronger, it will make your relationships stronger.

People starting their marriage or a relationship usually have several questions: “Who do I want to be, what do I want out of this marriage or relationship, and how do I get it? When answering those questions remember 1 Peter 4:8 and the importance of love.

Discussion Questions:

Do you believe love is the most critical element in marriage? If not, what is?
In what way does “love cover over a multitude of sins” in your relationships with others? Is there a relationship in your life right now that would benefit from practicing this command?
Think back through what you have learned in the Mr. and Mrs. series. What will you change in your life as a result of this series?