What can we learn from Tiger Woods?
Tiger Woods and Elin Nordegren are officially divorced.
What a sad and painful situation.
I’m sure they asked the questions that so many couples ask themselves –
‘Where did we go wrong?’
‘ What should I have done differently?’
‘Should I have seen the signs of this problem?’
I don’t presume to know the intimate issues of their marriage or of their personal needs and expectations. I feel sad for them and what they have experienced.
People should not judge them. We should not say what they ‘should do’ or ‘should have done’… we just don’t know. We have no idea what they’ve been through or what we would have done in that situation.
We can ask 2 questions –
· What can I do to strengthen & protect my marriage?
· How can I handle temptations of various kinds?
How’s Your Love Life?
Who you marry is the most important decision of your life – second only to your personal faith in Jesus Christ.
Keeping the love alive happens by actions and decisions that keep you connected with your spouse…
3 Simple thoughts:
1. Honor
Express honor to your spouse. What makes them feel honored? Tell others about their value. Invest in this important area of the relationship. When either of you feel ‘dishonored’ - intimacy and trust begin to fade.
2. Invest in them
Give your time to each other. Give your attention to the other. Serve them in some way. What do they love to do? Do that today. Ask them questions and really listen.
3. Create moments that make you laugh together
Life and relationships can be hard work. Play some. Play some more. What makes you laugh? Make time for that. Laughter is a great perspective changer.
How do we handle temptation?
1. Remember who you are – who you are to others is important. They are looking to you to be an example. What will they learn from the choices you are making?
Are you a son, a father, a friend, a minister or leader? Be one that will leave a good example. ‘What about the children?’
2. Think vividly about the consequences of your actions
Imagine the worst possible outcome. It can and probably will happen to you.
No one is invincible. Do you really want to pay that price?
3. Rededicate yourself to God
Yield to God. Ask for His help. Determine to please Him today in your choices.
4. Tell a trusted friend about your weakness or struggle
Others can pray with you, listen to you and bring a unique strength. We often cannot overcome temptations alone. So many who are addicted to porn cannot get free from without a friend. (xxxchurch.com)
5. Distance yourself from the situation
If you think you can’t handle it, you can’t. Run. Avoid those people, situations or environments that lead to weakness.
Remember - we are all tempted. We all need to choose purity in the choices we face. We all need God’s grace.
What do you think? How do you strengthen your relationship? What keeps marriage alive? How do you deal with temptations?
