Communication is arguably one of the most important components of a healthy marriage. Openness and transparency with our spouses nurtures a oneness that marks a vibrant marriage.
However, good communication is only part of a healthy marriage. What we communicate is more important than that we communicate. Unless we communicate forgiveness, our marriages will be stunted from the growth that is possible.
We need to offer our spouses continual forgiveness. Jesus talks about this in Matthew 18:21ff.
21Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?” 22Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”
When your marriage is clothed in forgiveness, it will bring honor and glory to God. Just as we live in a state of forgiven-ness, so should our spouses.
” … Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” Luke 6:37
How can continual forgiveness affect a marriage?
I think it’s really interesting that, when we think of forgiveness in marraige, we always focus on US having to forgive THEM. I’d imagine that if we knew how many times our spouses had graciously and silently overlooked our faults and failings and blessed us with forgiveness, we’d be overwhelmed–and maybe a little bit ashamed. I’m certainly thankful that my husband is forgiving!