Same Team Same Dream (Pt 1) By Pastor Lanre Oluseye

The five pivotal foundational theology of the Protestant Reformation (which gave birth to the Charismatic movement of which the Pentecostals are a major part) are;

1. Sola Scriptura (by the Word alone) – the Bible is the final authority that governs the life of New Testament believer.

2. Sola Gratia (by Grace alone) (Ephesians 2:8-9)

3. Sola Fide (by Faith alone)

4. Sola Christus (in Christ alone)

5. Soli Deo Gloria (For the glory of God alone) – The glory of God is the greatest motivation for a child of God.

The glory of God is bigger than your desires, emotions, wants, needs, etc. When all has been said and done, your marriage is for the glory of God alone – beyond the lovey-dovey, the children, etc. ‘For the glory of God alone’ makes your marriage worth fighting for. ‘For the glory of God alone’ comes at a cost. The institution of marriage is bigger than the couple involved.

In every relationship there is bound to be friction (James 1:2-4). Conflicts are normal but should not end in divorce, separation or anything that tarnishes God’s glory, because God’s grace and speed upon your life may come in the form of a person which could be your spouse.

What to do in Times of Conflict:

1. Pray – Prayer changes things and more importantly, it changes you. In marriage, you must understand that you are both on the same side; the same team with the same dream; but this does not rule out friction. When friction happens you must learn to pray. God can touch your spouse (Proverbs 21:1, Job 5:13). There’s not one of His creatures on earth that He does not know how to reach. Prayer still remains the key.

2. Patience – Nothing teaches you patience like marriage. When triggered, patience restrains you from going with your first emotional reaction. Emotional Intelligence is a key requirement for marriage. Proverbs 11:29 (MSG) – It is a stupid way of life to exploit or abuse your family.

3. Praise – Validate your spouse. Find one good thing they do and praise them for it. We are made in the image of God so we’re wired to enjoy praise (like our God). Do not focus so much on the wrongs that you can’t see the right.

4. Packaging – Never allow contention in your home to stop you from packaging yourself. Maintain your steeze. Keep your composure.

Prayer:

Father, cause every husband and wife to know that they’re on the same team and the dream is the same, that they do not give division any room for expression.

May the singles who desire marriage find favour and the helpers of their joy.

May the singles enjoy peace, joy and wholeness.

Perfect all things that concern us all in Jesus name, Amen.