Overcoming Marital Struggles


Marriage, like any aspect of life, can go through seasons of difficulty—times when love grows cold, trust is broken, or reconciliation seems impossible. Yet, the Bible repeatedly affirms that no situation is beyond God’s power to restore. Just as Jesus raised Jairus’ daughter and Lazarus from the dead, He can breathe new life into broken relationships. However, experiencing His miraculous restoration requires faith, obedience, and submission to His will. 

Faith in God’s Power to Restore:

Faith is the foundation for God’s intervention. When Jairus came to Jesus, his daughter had already died, but he still believed Jesus could heal her: “My little daughter is at the point of death; please come, that by coming, You may lay Your hands on her so that she will be saved and live” (Mark 5:23, LSB). 

Despite the hopelessness of the situation, Jesus reassured him: “Do not be afraid, only believe” (Mark 5:36, LSB). 

Likewise, Martha struggled to believe that Jesus could help her brother Lazarus after four days in the tomb. Yet, Jesus reminded her: “Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God? (John 11:40, LSB). 

Faith does not mean ignoring reality but trusting that God’s power transcends our circumstances. In marriage, believing that God can restore love, trust, and unity is the first step toward healing. 

Obedience Opens the Way for God’s Work: 

Faith alone is not enough; obedience is necessary. Before raising Lazarus, Jesus commanded: “Remove the stone” (John 11:39, LSB). 

God often requires human participation in His work. In marriage, this might mean taking uncomfortable steps—offering forgiveness, showing humility, or seeking wise counsel. Just as removing the stone preceded Lazarus’ resurrection, removing barriers like pride, resentment, or unforgiveness is essential for healing. 

Submission to God’s Will and Timing: 

God’s work often does not follow our preferred timeline. When Jairus’ daughter was dying, Jesus delayed, healing another woman along the way. By the time He arrived, the girl had died—but Jesus was right on time to reveal His greater power. 

Similarly, when Lazarus was sick, Jesus did not come immediately but allowed the situation to unfold for God’s glory:  “This sickness is not to end in death, but is for the glory of God” (John 11:4, LSB). 

In marital struggles, we often want instant solutions, but God works according to His wisdom. Trusting His timing means remaining faithful in prayer, love, and patience as He brings restoration in His way. 

Seeing the Glory of God: 

Jesus’ words to Martha still apply today: “Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” (John 11:40, LSB). 

A struggling marriage is not beyond God’s reach. Faith, obedience, and submission to His will pave the way for His transforming power. As couples trust Him, remove barriers, and follow His guidance, they will witness His glory in their relationship, proving that nothing is impossible with God (Ephesians 3:20).

Note: For a deeper exploration of biblical principles on marriage, family, and God’s design for relationships, stay tuned for my upcoming book, The Christian Family: A Biblical Perspective. This book delves into God’s vision for the family, offering scriptural guidance on love, unity, and overcoming challenges through faith and obedience.

Fr. Abraam Sleman

frsleman@CopticChurch.net

#OvercomingMaritalStruggles #MarriageRestoration #FaithInGod #GodCanRestore #BiblicalMarriage #TrustInGod #GodsTiming #HealingRelationships #ChristianMarriage #MarriageGodsWay #MarriageFaithJourney #HopeForMarriage #ObedienceToGod #SpiritualHealing #GodsGlory #MarriageChallenges #BiblicalWisdom #ForgivenessInMarriage #MarriageGodsPlan #FaithOverFear #PowerOfPrayer #JesusRestores #GodsIntervention #MarriageRenewal #UnshakeableFaith 

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