SPIRITUAL GROWTH AS A COUPLE

SPIRITUAL GROWTH AS A COUPLE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 18:19
Supporting Texts: Joshua 24:15, Amos 3:3, Colossians 3:16, 1 Thessalonians 5:17

---

INTRODUCTION:

Marriage is not just a physical and emotional union but also a spiritual one. For a marriage to thrive, both partners must grow together spiritually. A strong spiritual foundation helps couples withstand challenges, maintain unity, and fulfil God’s purpose for their marriage. This message explores the importance of prayer, Bible study, and church involvement in nurturing spiritual growth as a couple.

---

1. THE POWER OF PRAYER IN MARRIAGE

• a) Prayer invites God’s presence (Matthew 18:19-20)
  • When couples pray together, God moves in their home.
• b) Prayer strengthens marital unity (Amos 3:3)
  • A praying couple walks in agreement and purpose.
• c) Prayer brings divine intervention (Philippians 4:6-7)
  • God answers the prayers of a united couple.
• d) Prayer protects against the enemy (Ephesians 6:12)
  • Satan attacks marriages, but prayer provides spiritual defence.
• e) Biblical Example: Zechariah and Elizabeth
  • Their persistent prayers led to the birth of John the Baptist (Luke 1:13).

---

2. STUDYING THE WORD OF GOD TOGETHER

• a) The Word of God is the foundation of a strong marriage (Psalm 119:105)
  • The Bible provides direction and wisdom for couples.
• b) God’s Word helps in decision-making (Proverbs 3:5-6)
  • Couples should seek guidance from Scripture.
• c) Bible study strengthens faith and love (Colossians 3:16)
  • Studying God’s Word together fosters spiritual intimacy.
• d) The Word of God corrects and instructs (2 Timothy 3:16)
  • It helps couples grow in righteousness.
• e) Biblical Example: Aquila and Priscilla
  • They were deeply rooted in God’s Word and ministered together (Acts 18:24-26).

---

3. THE ROLE OF CHURCH INVOLVEMENT IN SPIRITUAL GROWTH

• a) Church provides a spiritual covering (Hebrews 10:25)
  • Couples who stay in fellowship receive strength and encouragement.
• b) Serving together strengthens love (1 Corinthians 15:58)
  • Working in ministry together enhances marital bonding.
• c) Being part of a church community provides accountability (Galatians 6:2)
  • Spiritual mentors help couples stay on the right path.
• d) Church participation fosters corporate worship (Psalm 122:1)
  • Worshipping together deepens spiritual intimacy.
• e) Biblical Example: Elkanah and Hannah
  • They went to the temple together yearly to worship God (1 Samuel 1:3).

---

4. BUILDING A GODLY HOME

• a) A godly home is built on faith in Christ (Joshua 24:15)
  • Couples must intentionally make God the centre of their home.
• b) Teaching children godly values is a shared responsibility (Deuteronomy 6:6-7)
  • Both parents must model biblical principles.
• c) Daily devotion strengthens the family (Psalm 127:1)
  • Regular Bible study and prayers invite God’s presence.
• d) Forgiveness and grace must be practised (Ephesians 4:32)
  • A spiritually growing couple must forgive and support each other.
• e) Biblical Example: Abraham and Sarah
  • They built their home on faith in God’s promises (Genesis 18:19).

---

5. AVOIDING SPIRITUAL DRYNESS IN MARRIAGE

• a) Do not neglect personal relationship with God (Revelation 2:4-5)
  • Spiritual stagnation affects marriage.
• b) Beware of distractions that hinder growth (Luke 10:40-42)
  • Busyness should not replace time with God.
• c) Encourage each other in faith (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
  • When one is weak, the other should uplift them.
• d) Guard against spiritual compromise (2 Corinthians 6:14)
  • Couples must stand firm in righteousness.
• e) Biblical Example: Samson and Delilah
  • Samson’s compromise with Delilah led to his downfall (Judges 16:16-21).

---

CONCLUSION:

Spiritual growth in marriage is essential for a strong and lasting union. Couples must be intentional about prayer, studying the Bible, participating in church, and building a godly home. A spiritually strong marriage will withstand challenges and glorify God.

---

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, make our marriage a reflection of Your love and unity.
2. Father, help us to grow spiritually as a couple.
3. Every attack against our spiritual lives, be destroyed in Jesus’ name.
4. Lord, grant us the grace to prioritise prayer and Bible study.
5. Let our home be filled with Your presence and peace.
6. Father, give us the wisdom to raise godly children.
7. We break every spirit of distraction and spiritual laziness.
8. Lord, help us to stay committed to Your Word and church.
9. Let our marriage be a light to others and a testimony of Your faithfulness.
10. We declare that our home is built on Christ, the solid rock!

---

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. Your marriage shall be rooted and grounded in Christ!
2. The fire of God shall keep your home spiritually alive!
3. Every plan of the enemy to weaken your faith is destroyed!
4. Your family shall serve the Lord all the days of your life!
5. The Lord shall open your spiritual eyes to deeper revelations!
6. No storm shall shake the foundation of your marriage!
7. You shall experience divine peace and unity in your home!
8. Your spiritual life shall continually flourish!
9. Your marriage shall be a beacon of God’s glory!
10. You and your spouse shall finish strong in faith and righteousness.