Introduction

At the very beginning of our story, God created marriage. And along with everything else he created, it was good. But when sin entered our story, it found its way into marriages too. Together we’re taking a look at God's intentions for marriage and because Jesus redeems us from the power of sin, he can redeem our marriages as well. In week two, Pastor Chip taught us how to get “unstuck” when our marriages are on the wrong path.

Quick note: While this is a marriage series, we know not everyone in our church is married. And that’s ok. It’s our intention and hope that regardless of your marital status, God has something new and relevant for you in this series.

Discussion

1. No matter who you are, marriage is difficult. The trajectory of your marriage is determined by which kind of difficult you choose. One leads to mutual submission and Christ-likeness while the other leads to disconnect and struggle. How do these paths look and sound different? What are some concrete examples of choosing one path or another?

2. The body language of your marriage tells you a lot about the condition of your marriage.

Side by Side: Feeling stuck in the swirl of the busyness of life.

Back to Back: Feeling stuck in the continual cycle of conflict and lack of connection.

Distant: Feeling like your marriage is broken and isolated (maybe with thoughts of divorce.)

Face to Face: Feeling connected and close.

Most marriages’ body language changes often. If you’re willing to share, what posture might your marriage be in right now? Why? Or, can you identify previous postures and what caused them?

3. Revisit and read Luke 6:46-49. Who or what is at the center of your marriage right now? Kids? Money? Experiences? Sex? Your spouse? Anything other than God will not meet your needs.

4. Revisit and read 1 John 1:8-9 & James 5:16. Confession is difficult and vulnerable, but it brings healing. We need to confess – acknowledge the truth – in our relationships. Is confession a part of any relationships in your life right now? If so, what’s difficult about it and how does it help? If not, why?

5. Pastor Chip encouraged us saying, “No matter what trajectory your marriage has been on, it can change. God can make all things new. There is hope.” How have you seen God work and move in your marriage already? Is there anything you’re praying he helps you with now? If you’re comfortable, share these prayer requests with your group.

Application

• Find Time. Create space for a regular date night with your spouse. This kind of intentional quality time helps you stay face-to-face (literally and metaphorically).
• Find people. We need others to support us, even when we have a spouse. Counselors and trusted friends (like people in your group) can help support, encourage, and pray for you while providing connection, wisdom, and help.
• Pray for your spouse. Participate in our 21 Days of Prayer for your spouse. Text “Spouse” to 99581 to receive daily prayer prompts you can use to pray for them.