Ephesians 1:19-20, "How tremendous is the power available to us who believe in God. The same power demonstrated when Christ was raised from the dead."

Think

In today's verse, Paul uses the Greek term 'dunamis', to describe God's tremendous power. Why is that notable? Because it's the origin of our word 'dynamite'. Thus, Paul is saying, "God wants to give you explosive power to blast through hardened hearts, hurt feelings, anger, resentment, and selfishness!" Why, then, do we so easily forget to apply this dynamite power in the midst of marital conflict? We are NOT fighting FOR victory, but FROM victory. The ultimate battle was won 2,000 years ago as Jesus burst forth from the grave with the same supernatural resurrection power that's available to us 24/7! Human love is often fickle, fluctuating and selfish. Therefore, it's not powerful enough to sustain a winning marriage. Conversely, God's love is perfect, consistent, and reliable. So as recipients of His love, we are empowered to look past pettiness and love our spouse the way God loves us. And when we tap into His supernatural transformational power, we are less likely to be impatient, arrogant, or rude. But let's face it, we're all imperfect and selfish by nature. We will at times find ourselves reacting to our spouse in a negative manner. However, if we stop, take a deep breath, and lean on God's power He will redirect our thoughts with an infusion of objectivity and compassion. Remember, your spouse is not the enemy. You are on the same team – God's team!  So live like a winner. Because if you love right, you'll fight right. And if you fight right, you'll win the fight time and time again!

Act

1 Peter 4:7-11 serves as a great reminder of compassionate lovingkindness and the importance of extending God's grace to others. Read the passage several times, and at least once read it aloud. Let the words resonate in your heart and look for ways to live them out today.

Pray

Father God, I praise You for sending Jesus to secure the ultimate victory over death. Help me to remember that Your dynamite power is available to me 24/7. Thank You for loving me enough to accept me as a work in progress! In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.