FROM BAIT TO CATCH #13 (SHORT STORY)
As the danger element in our short story series heightens because of the return of the second Igwe son, Kodili, Raphael gets a taste of Chukwuma, the first son’s viciousness in the last episode. Kodili seeks his help to prove Chukwuma doctored their father’s will. Does Raphael agree to assist him? Does he have the means to swing things in favour of Kodili? Above all, does he inform Kodili about Ikenna, his late father’s son by his mistress? This episode provides the answers to these questions and more.
FROM FEAR TO FAITH
I had no answer to Raphael’s question on whether he should tell Kodili about Ikenna.
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“Darling, I believe you’ll figure out the best thing to do.”
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I was weary of hearing about the Igwes. I was more interested in the decision Raphael earlier said he’d made and my curiosity heightened by sweet anticipation got the better of me when he asked to leave.
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“Not on your life! I can’t wait another minute before hearing about your faarrr-reaching decision.”
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“Ok. It’s a juicy one. For a while back there in the police cell, I was afraid that Chukwuma could have me killed and buried and no one would know. Thank God I didn’t know how far he’d gone to corner the family wealth for himself. I’d have died of fear before he arranged such a thing because a man like that would see Ikenna as a future threat and will kill anyone ….”
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“Please, don’t speak of it.” I was yet to tell him of my momentary near-lunacy thinking the same thoughts.
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“Nothing will happen to him, my dear. Anyway, in my fear-crazed state, I gave my life to Christ. I promised Him I would serve Him all my days if He got me out of that place. I don’t want to tell you what it was like in that cell but I wasn’t joking when I told you I’d been to hell.”
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I began to laugh, gently at first, then uncontrollably. Raphael got the mistaken idea that I was laughing at him.
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“You can laugh all you want but I’m keeping my promise. It’s even long overdue. I am just ashamed that it took the fear of death to make me surrender to Jesus. It’s something I should have done joyfully long ago. But it’s better late than never.”
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I held Raphael’s face in my hands.
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“Oh, sweet, sweet dear! I’m not making fun of you.”
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I then told him the story of the evening when I nearly lost my mind with fear regarding my custody of Ikenna and ended up giving my life to Christ in the church I ran to. Ikenna was, without doubt, a wonderful blessing from God. Care for him had led us both to faith and for that I was ecstatic.
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Getting married without knowing the Lord is a risky proposition in my view because of the inherent selfishness and deceitfulness of human beings. Imagine what my MD’s wife had to live with. She was aware of her husband’s liaisons with other women. Also, marriage to someone you’re not on the same page with spiritually can quickly turn into a fiasco. But God, in His mercy, had taken care of these two related problems for us by bringing both of us to faith at the same time before we tied the knot. All we needed to do was humbly obey Him and our relationship with each other would flourish.
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We decided we would leave for the village on Monday. Raphael was to come on Sunday to help me pack for an extended stay. He would use Saturday to take care of some things and put his own stuff together. He felt we should steer clear of the Igwes till they sort themselves out.
After service on Sunday, I called my parents and told them to expect me and my intended. I also told them I was coming with a baby whom they immediately assumed was mine. Every attempt to convince them otherwise failed.
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“There’s nothing to be ashamed of, my dear,” my mother said. “Everybody knows you’re not wayward. If anything, we were worried that you were working too hard ….”
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“That daughter of mine is a woman indeed, giving a man good reward for his efforts! Please hurry up and bring me my grandchild,” my father interjected.
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“And you say it’s that same boy that you were in school with,” my mum continued. “Ehen? It shows you were not jumping from one man to the other.”
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They were just wasting my air time.
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“See you tomorrow! And what will you cook for me? I want a special soup, snails or periwinkles. Then that light okra stuff you used to make with pumpkin leaves.”
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“Wait oh, are you expecting your second already? This one you’re asking for snails and periwinkles.”
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“Bye bye!”
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I told myself I had a lot of work to do. My parents and their dirty minds! They needed to come to faith too and know that sex outside of marriage should not be justified or celebrated.
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Before I dropped the phone, a mischievous thought came into my mind.
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“Why don’t I call Clara and tell her that I’m getting married? Those wicked men at the company wanted to plunge me into misery but it’d be nice to let them know that my life is moving on nicely.”
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That call was so timely. Unknown to Raphael and I, the battle between the Igwe brothers had turned deadly.
-To be continued-
Ⓒ Edith Ugochi Ohaja 2016
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*”Ehen?” in this context is like “You see?” It’s a leading question for eliciting affirmation.
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Do you agree with this assertion: “Marriage to someone you’re not on the same page with spiritually can quickly turn into a fiasco”?
Does a couple being saved really make for a smooth marriage? If you’re answer is affirmative, please share one or two specific ways you think it does.
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Watch out for Episode #14 (The end) of this very entertaining story right here on edithohaja.com. You might want to read previous episodes as well to get the full story.
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Of a truth, there’s a point there. Marriage with someone you are not on same spiritual page with is just not advisable cos it can ‘quickly turn to a fiasco’. So, I agree ma.
If a couple is saved, there is Christ and not crisis; freedom to make decisions and not fear or pressure. Again, it paves way for outright understanding of one another, leading to several/severe decisive moral increase both on the couples and their offspring.
I think so too. It’s not that challenges won’t come, but the moderating influence of the Holy Spirit will usually prevent them from getting out of hand. Bless you!
One need to knw that marriage is not something u rush into and as such one need to balance the equation of marriage by knowing ur partner Very well.
You’re right but sometimes it’s hard to tell how long is long enough to get to know someone well. In fact, truth be told, we’re still getting to know our own selves. So since the journey of self-discovery is continuous, we should just gauge in our spirits when to take a relationship to the next level. There can be no hard and fast rule for this. For some, it can be months but for others, years. Bless you, Flawlex.
Exactly ma. Just on point. In every relationship, there should be continuity in spouse-discovery. It is something of due process. It is as well a life long admission into the university of relationship, to study “spouse discovery”. You must not know all your spouse’s strengths and weaknesses before skyrocking your relationship to the next level. Bless you all.
Well said, Lawrence! Bless you too!
I agree to that assertion, it can be really deadly. And a couple needs to be saved o make for a smooth marriage in other keep the union lastiny.
You’re right, Chinaza, and you’re highly blessed in Jesus’ name.
i certainly do agree to that assertion. every marriage has it’s flaws, but it now depends on how it should be handled. being saved does not mean that you will not encounter some obstacles. a couple that is saved will be able to draw strength from God, and also from themselves whenever a problem is encountered in their marriage.
Very correct. A lot of wisdom for your years, praise God!
yes i agree to that if two people do not agree to walk together in accord then it will not work because there will always be problem. yes because there will always be joy, peace, love even in the time of trial and above all they will have Christ as their all and all
That is so good to know!
Yes I agree to dat cos if both of u are not spiritually together,ur decisions won’t be binding and by so doing a misunderstanding will evolve from dat
It’s quiet true,marriage to someone you are not on the same page spiritually can quickly turn into a fiasco.it is important to know that marriage is for eternity and we need to be more careful in chosen a spouse.yes, a couple being saved will definitely make for a smooth marriage. it will pave ways for understanding, tolerance,endurance,patient ,peace and love
Spiritual controls the physical. So a marriage spiritually bound is mutually bound.it depended on the couple spiritual belt, once the belt is loosening then cockroach and mosquitoes are bound to enter, but when their belt is tightened in spiritual accord of the holyspirit, wu is d devil let him flee!!!, and the last of all for marriage to be saved it must be in the hands of God like a puppet.
Yes, every born again child of God, should consider a partner who has his/her actions and beliefs built on the word of God because marriage in most cases does not necessarily change anybody.
I think yes to some extent because since God is involved, his spirit is present in the hearts of the couple and they are both working in the fear of the Lord so a smooth and peaceful marriage is possible.
Definitely, faith in God gives a couple a solid handle for dealing with marital challenges. Thank you, Victoria, and be blessed in Jesus’ name.
I certainly agree to this assertion that no relationship or marriage can stand without God as the foundation to give it a solid and well structural structure, at the same time, am so happy that Sharon parents believe in their daughter in the way they view her as someone that is not wayward:::mothers and grandchildren…..
interesting!
That is why servants of God will first of all think of a partner that cheers his or her believe while contemplating marriage. and, above all, praying for God’s holyspirit is very important.
yes, of what use is a marriage that joins two bodies and not two souls??
Well, it can turn into a fiasco and giving one’s life to Christ can really help for a relatively smooth marriage.
marriage to someone you are not the same page with spiritually is simply not advisable.
Of course one has to marry who they’re on the same page with. Nothing kills marriage like one being a believer and the other isn’t.
I have an uncle who the last time he stepped into the church was on his wedding day [two and half years ago]. This causes problem, the man starts complaining if woman and child spend a minute longer in fellowships. Disagreements, because the woman tells the man that he needed God in his life, the man tells her that he’d accept Jesus whenhe was ready.
I pray they find peace tho.
Spiritual compatibility in marriage is more or less a sturdy building block for a successful and long lasting-happy married life.
A m I tempted to say that some of the so called christian couples don’t make smooth marriage? But having a christian couple, I think should be an advantage rather than a disadvantage; by what they belief (same belief), can encourage each other with the edifying words of truth, are some advantages they should possess.
Yeah marriage like that can’t work because God is the foundation of a good marriage.
To me all marriages hv ups nd downs so although a couple has love,trust, endurance, wisdom, understanding and other essential things in marriages, I think God’s love and care should also be available.
By prayer and working towards it,God can. make a shattered family cone back, make a drunkard change his way, etc.
I totally agree.
Truly marriage without Christ and with someone you are not one the same page with is really hard and may end up in crisis. The couple needs to be saved so that Christ can help their marriage to be strong. I can’t wait to read the end of the story. LOL…
to some extend it is good to marry someone who is on the same page of spirituality with you or some one who is high than you so that the person can lift you up when you fall. again. yes couples been save can lead to a smooth marriage, because it establishes trust, when you are save you prevent those things that will make your partner to loose trust in you. because they are equipped with the word of God and they strive to keep his commandments, it will enable them to endure hand times, overcome temptation which can lead to a smooth marriage.
Wow! So many benefits of getting saved before marriage and marrying a fellow believer. Many thanks, Ijeoma! You are so blessed!
Things are finally looking well for them….Life without Jesus is meaningless
Yes because if you can’t agree on Christ I don’t think you can agree on any other thing as couples. Well saved couple is a good start but building on faith throughout the marriage together and a lot other things like trust matters.
I strongly believe in the statement that marriage to someone you are not on the same page with spiritually can quickly turn into a fiasco. again, if couple are saved by the blood of Jesus, they will make a happy home because they will guide and live into the marriage with the word of God which is the foundation for a every successful marriage.
Had a good laugh here…hmm!! parents…
i absolutely agree.
yes it does, it makes them one in Christ and with Christ in their lives, there would be more understanding..marriage is not easy o.
getting married to someone you are on the same page is very nyc and with Christ in it both will hardly have a fight.
I strongly agree that marriage with someone you are not on the same page with can turn into a fiasco.If a couple are saved then they wil draw streght from the Lord and the issue of lack of trust wont be there.
Yes, I agree. Marriage should be between people who share the same perspective, even if not on everything but on most things.
for me, it can’t lead to a fiasco.. if one is spiritually vibrant, that can save the other person and will bring them on the same page.( a good example is the life of St. Monica and St. Augustine).. but getting married to someone you are on the same page with is good. Also, it can’t be disputed that a couple being saved really make for a smooth marriage. because you are sure of God’s presence, direction, blessings, Spirit and the likes. it also breeds understanding between the two. a good one.. thank u ma
It can be true and not true at the same time reason been that things don’t really work like that at times. I don’t think that the saved that one believed to be saved will make that people successful in everything especially marriage.
yes marriage without christ is crisis so as a couple u need to put GOD first in your marriage.
that assertion is true, but d question is, how do we know d one we are on thesame page with, we can only know that when we get married to Jesus first
Religion is very important but not the only thing that makes a marriage work, its all about the mutual understanding, all the same, not beign on the same page religously can turn your marriage into a fiasco because every family that prays together stays together. Also being saved doesn’t mean your marriage will be perfect cause that is not the only factor for a peaceful life together, it takes more than being saved.
i condemn marriage with the person you are not in the same spiritualiy page with, definitely it will surely turn into a fiasco. for instance, if u are a believer and u marry an unbeliever, you know that two of are not birds of the same feather,in case of decision making concerning family issue, you will like to take Godly decision which might not go well to ur partner, which might bring quarrel, misunderstanding or devours.yes a couple been saved really makes a smooth marriage,they are in the same ship. before doing anything thy will consult God and this will help them not to make mistakes and there will be smooth, happy and peaceful marriage
Yh marriage without being on d same page can lwad to a fiasco,but narriage pn d same page maynot guarantee a blissful and happy life,but it tends to reduce d level or risk of divorce cases..i believe marriage without God and in God is not marriage at all
I agree that marriage to some1 with different view in things of the spirit can really make the marriage rough and unbearable…..involving Christ in everything you do automatically smoothens your activity and marriage ain’t an exclusion
Yes. In most families in the village, you will see a situation whereby the man is a pagan and the wife is a strong Christian and there will be clashes of beliefs.
It is a criterion but not the main thing, to me the main thing is staying in faith and not deviating
Yes,i totally agree to that because it will certainly lead to misunderstanding and the marriage will not last.
Yes,a couple being saved really makes a smooth marriage because you guys will build ur marriage on the solid rock that never fails and pray together bcos of the adage that says a family that prays together stays together.
When you marry an unbeliver you are just living under pressure because the way you think will be different from his own,had it been Mr Benedict was a born again he wouldn’t have seen having an affair with Mary as the solution to his problem…yes been saved can make your marriage smooth, sweet and memorable not that there wouldn’t be challenges and difficulties but it can never shake the love the have for each other because their relationship is built in Christ the solution to every problem
yes been married to some one you are not in the same page with.Yes to someone that is saved.yes the affirmitive example is building family alter (morning devotions)
yes. i agree with that assertion. couples needs to be saved. Because once they do, they will learn how to trust in God in all situation. And also, God will see them through in their marriage
Marriage is made cheerful when both are of the same spiritual unit. Everything about marriage ought to be common. If possible, both should study the same course, do the same business. This would promote good communication between them. Once there is difference between them, especially in area of spirituality, there would always be misunderstanding.
Yes it does lead to a fiasco because of lack of one mind and believe but when they are on the same spiritual page, the journey becomes smoother with the Holy spirit guiding them to the truth.
it is always advisable to know your spouse too well before going into marriage.salvation is the watch word for a successful marriage.if you let LOVE lead its best you let GOD lead as well
Marriage was established or founded by God and without God the founder, cannot thrive. Marrying one who is not on the same page of spirituality/faith with you can be suicidal. Its experience is Hell on earth. But when we marry in the Lord, though there may be times of misunderstanding, our faith will make us retreat and seek peace. A couple being saved does not guarantee smooth marriage.
CHIRST IS LOVE AND LOVE IS CHIRST, IF YOU BELIEVE THAT HE DIE FOR YOU AND CONQUER IT SHOWS THAT YOU HAVE FAITH IN CHIRST SO IN FAITH YOU WILL CONQUER ALL.
I totally believe that assertion. If you are not on the same spiritual page with your spouse, it’s not as if the marriage will crumble at once but little things can actually make it crumble so fast. We should always let God and Love lead our marriage. And for the second question, if couples are being saved by Christ, he is going to give to them a smooth and blissful marriage despite the fact that temptations are for sure but he will let them overcome because we overcome by the blood of the lamb.
yes i agree with the assertion
yes it can turn into a fiasco.
God has way of telling and showing our mistakes and we learn.
its important to marry someone spiritually compatible with you, because if both parties are not, then things wont work well in that home, both parties idea, thinking and believe would be different and it will be difficult to come to an agreement.
yes, i seriously agree with assertion. couples needs to be saved for their marriage to be in line with God’s purpose for them. Also, when couples are saved, the marriage tends to last for a long time.
I noticed that most of their decisions were logically made without them seeking for the guidance of the Holy spirit. It was in this episode I realized they weren’t born again. But now that they are, their marriage will be built on the Rock of ages and will never fall when storms of life rage all around.
Yes, Chioma, they were just two young people living their lives the way they deem best. The guy was really nice, the girl, not so much but still, they both needed to hand over their lives to the Saviour, Jesus Christ, to receive the full benefits of a relationship with God, just like everyone else needs to. Bless you, my dear!
Yes marrying someone ur not on the same page with spiritually could be disasterous even the bible says we should not be equally yoked with unbelievers. so a marriage outside Christ will always bring unhappiness and regret.just like chief Benedict’s family.
I think it will be a complete fiasco if both are not Christians, but if they are Christians and of different denominations, it is only understanding that that can save it,its very important that a couple is saved before getting into marriage else the ring on thier fingers might just become a bores that will be too heavy for their fingers, every family that prays together stays together and the fear of Godwill bring respect and loyalty and honesty
Yes they need to be in the same spiritual level
And yes they need to be saved as God is the only solid rock
If two partners are not spiritually on the same page. Its not easy for them to live together in harmony.
Making a lifetime vow with someone who isn’t on the same page with you is a costly mistake.
God being the head of a relationship makes the relationship last longer and more peaceful.
Yes, marrying someone you are not on the same page with spiritually, could lead to domestic agitation. Either party would feel some negative complex against the other in due course of the relationship and this does not make for healthy companionship. Being saved would bring tons of blessings from God upon them, and they will be able to avoid numerous marital conflicts along the way through abiding by the word of God, letting him fight their battles with them, and for them. God is good.
I think their giving their life to christ, would make their marriage go stronger and blissful
Getting married to someone who you are not ok with spiritually it going to be a disaster.
Yes, marriage with someone you’re not in the same page spiritually can be destroyed at any moment. And also, if a couple is saved, there is this trust, peace and love that exist between the both of them and it helps them in taking decisions that will strengthen their love.
Yes! marrying someone who is not on the same page with you can really be bad especially in the spiritual aspect of your life.
Their marriage will be smooth if they’re saved…so I’ll say being saved and knowing God is the way forward
Getting maried to someone you are not on the same page with spiritually can turn into a successful disaster! and yes it does because God becomes the piller in the marriage.
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Yes because when you believe in God and marries someone who doesn’t, it won’t last for there will be jeopardy in the family. But marring a believer guarantees a successful n happy family.
Also,couples who are really saved or born again tend to make a smooth marriage for there will b love n understanding.
A marriage which is not built on a solid rock which is Jesus will definitely fall. The lord initiated marriage n so it should be held sacred.
Couples who r really save tend to make a good Union. The build a happy home n tend to raise happy children.
You can marry someone you are not on the same page with spiritually, you can achieve this by praying to God to change such person’s life to your satisfaction, Although is not easy doing that but always wear an amour of faith
Yes! It can bring disaster in a marriage. It can affect the children’s belief and responsibilities among the family.
2. Yes! A couple that is save, always pray together, face battles together. In faith, the couple would stand for each other, accept each other weaknesses and CHRIST will make a home in such place and peace will rule.
You’ve painted a very beautiful picture here. God bless you awesomely in Jesus’ name.
It can be a fiasco if the couple is not a true Christians. secondary, it’s obvious that true love, fidelity, trust, God fearing are the attributes of a saved couple.
I totally agree with the assertion that marriage to someone you are not on the same page with spiritually can quickly end in a fiasco due to the fact that there will be differences in belief, faith ,morals and lack of understanding between the spouses. The salvation of a couple indeed makes for a good marriage as their will be greater love, respect, unity, understanding and the ability to overcome challenges and stand by each other in times of need due to the presence of Christ in their midst.
Marriage to someone who is not on the same spiritual page with you may or may not lead to fiasco.. you can help your partner up to your page.. and when it is right, there will be understanding and communication.
It’s possible.
A couple being saved will definitely pave way for a smooth marriage filled with understanding,tolerance and love
I agree with the assertion that marriage with someone you are not on the same page with spiritually can quickly turn into a fiasco. For example, Marriage between A Core Muslim and a Christian or Marriage between a Traditionalist and a good Christian. Such Marriage is dead on arrival because it is difficult for them to agree on something. Secondly, I think a couple being saved really makes for a smooth marriage. First, to be saved is to be delivered from the bondage of sin; to be made to know, fear and worship God, make him personal God and Saviour. So, a family with the knowledge of God,delivered from the bondage of sin understands the concept of marriage beyond the earthly definition. Such family or marriage exists on the basis of God’s words, commands; praying together, fasting together and in so doing, a smooth and happy home is achieved.
Wow! It’s always a delight to read your comments. God bless you splendidly in Jesus’ name.
i totally agree to that assertion.
Couple being saved doesnt make for a smooth marriage. challenges will surely come, being saved only gives you the strength to overcome.
i know i’ve read a passage in d bible dat says a saved partner can lead the other to christ,can’t recall where exactly so i think if dat partner was destined for u,being saved would definitely rub on him/her n God would have his way
marriage is a good thing. but marriage with the wrong partner is a MIRAGE… both partner must run with the same mindset( religious background) outside it is pain, confussion and misery.
Such a marriage can quickly turn in a fiasco so one needs to be very careful when choosing a life partner.Actually a couple being saved is not an assurance that they will have a smooth marriage because anyone can be tempted at any point in time irrespective of how spiritual you think you are.
i don’t totally agree to the assertion ” if you don’t marry someone you are not on the same page with spiritually the marriage will be a fiasco” why? this is my reason; when u marry someone u are not on the same page with spiritually something might change positively or negatively it depends on who’s influence is more. if the woman is really spiritual she will influence her husband positively and make him turn a new live, it goes vice-visa, the marriage wont be a fiasco. and for the fact that u are spiritual it doesn’t give a total assurance that your marriage will turn out perfect it all depends on the individuals involved in the relationship. being spiritual or earthly doesn’t make your marriage smooth. marriage is all about compatibility, understanding love, and Gods grace…..
marriage is a complicated thing which shouldn’t be rushed into because of so many factors which must be considered before entering into it
Not really. Being saved is not a guarantee for having a smooth marriage. There will defininatly be complications along the way.
Nah .. does it mean a priest can’t get married to ordinary church member?? I believe as time goes on they will be on same page but it depends on who is behind sha oooo.
Nope, we have seen cases of men of God divorcing their wives, does it mean they ain’t saved. It takes the grace of Him(God).
It most likely would turn into a fiasco because the couple won’t agree on certain matters. A saved couple will have a smooth marriage because there’s something for them both to hold on to and believe in.
No i dont think the marriage will turn to a fiasco..because i believe that people can influence people..one might end up influencing the other in a positive way…Being saved doesn`t make for a smooth marriage because there will surely be complications along the way..being saved gives you the grace to overcome them.
Being save is not a reason to have smooth relationship because in every relationship there must be a misunderstanding
yes i do. there is this popular saying that says;can two walk together unless yhey agree? the answer is no.
Not when i say yes you say no, and when i say no you say yes, that marriage will definitely turn sore.
yes a couple being saved really make a sooth marriage,in regards to understanding each other,and living in peace and harmony.
when you marry a man/woman that is not saved,he/she might compile you into doing those worldly things that goes against the will of God,
no i think it all depends on how the couple treat both their spirituality.
i believe it is a two way thing because if you let being saved affect your marriage positively then it will because i know it is not all couples that are saved that enjoy a fulfilled marriage life
yes it dose, when they believe in God, things work out fine between the couple and God in terms of good understanding, love and believe.
Yes,i agree to the assertion no marriage can stand without God.
Yes if your pathner does not believe in God, the marriage wouldn’t work out. The couple being saved makes them closer to God and for their union to be strong.
Yes I agree.
Any marriage without Christ in the middle ends in crisis. For a smooth marriage Christ must be in the middle.
Can two people walk together unless they agree? I dont think anything at all can work without Jesus as he is the center of it all.
I agree. No marriage can work without God.The knowledge of God helps every marriage and home at large.
Definitely. Salvation is necessary in marriage. Boh couples need to be spiritual. Battles will arise, not physical and they will need to iron it out in prayers. What if they aren’t born again? They will fight unending battles not knowing the angles they’re coming from
Wisdom! Bless you, Chioma, in Jesus’ name.
I believe that a marriage based on different beliefs can turn into a fiasco..it is important to be born again for a smooth marriage.
no marriage can be successful without God if not it will be filled with problems
The knowledge of God and his ways helps alot in every family
And I will keep using my parents my role models as they have made us see life differently; I believe what has kept them for 22yrs and still going is Christ; marriage as born again christains; They will alwys say a God fearing couple stays together;
I undoubtly believe the assertion as being on the same page as your spouse creates this natural affinity between them.
It’s good for one to engage in a self discovery and when in a relationship should get to know his\her spouse well enough to be prepared for the task of marriage.the mot important factor in any marriage is God factor
I agree on the assertion. I also agree to the second question: it will help the family to grow spiritually and in other aspect too, and when two people who reason alike and have same faith lives together then they will understand the principles of marriage well and try not to default them
Yes….the affirmation is correct…marriage with someone on the same spiritual line with you….being saved means being with Christ…one with Christ is a conqueror and can overcome challenges in marriage
According to the holy book, light and darkness do not go hand in hand, hence the necessity for the couple to be on the same page spiritually and there is no such thing as a smooth marriage in our society today so i think religion does not really contribute to the success of a marriage even though it is a necessary factor.
marriage as a union have a spiritual bond that transcend the physical unionism, so i totally agree that one need to seek the face of the almighty God before tying the knot. lending credence from most of the comment ab initio i think being saved does not mean being exempted from trial but having the conqueror, the alpha and omega (GOD) by your side makes every mountain looks like a mile stone..
Yes I strongly agree with that; I mean that’s the best marriage being with someone who is in the same spiritual page with you matters a lot…there will be understanding,maturity etc.
Yes, I believe in this ascertion, and couples being saved will be of benefit to the marriage my reason being that when you tie the knot with a stranger in thesame faith with you you will end up loosing focus thus you will drift spiritually.
Yes! I agree with the assertion. because a marriage with an unbeliever will definitely turn into a fiasco since there will be no mutual understanding. Secondly, a couple being saved really makes for a smooth marriage because when people are saved, they share the same faith, the same belief etc. They are guided by the same supreme being, God. They invite God in times of difficulty and the fear of God in them will guide them to the righteous path.
Thank you for that explanation, Cynthia!
it is always advisable to get married to someone you are on the same page with spiritually because this boosts togetherness, cooperation,longevity and understanding and mind you, all these helps fuels love. in response to the other quetion, a couple being saved is essential to their marriage because true love is achieved fighting for eternal life together and even the bible says ‘seek thee the kingdom of God first and every other thing shall be added onto thee” so happiness,joy,smoothness and all good things of life will come to the couple that are saved spiritually.
This is why i keeping telling people that marrying just because you love HIM is not all you need to consider before marriage just like in this spirituality case you should not think you can cope with someone that does not see spirituality the way you see it…it doesnt work that way
I really subscribe to that. Marriage does not need only understanding but also sharing the same frame of references. If this is not there, it would definitely lead to chaos.
I think marrying someone with the same religious status is a nice one. It would prevent chaos.
yes i believe, i have seen many marriage fail because of that
marrying someone your not on the same page with spiritually can actually turn in to fiasco, especially when you and your hubby do not share the same view on things you consider spiritual.
I believe that assertion only on one condition, that u can also marry on just basis of physical appearance and character but on the long run you will develop the spiritual affiliation needed for the marriage because everybody can not be spiritual at the said time of marriage but needs to be led into it . For two couples to be saved doesn’t mean that the marriage will go smoothly because been saved is just the spiritual side, what about the physical side, if they don’t go together the marriage will be a mess. So been saved is not the only criteria for a smooth marriage but other components have to be accessed and utilized properly.
There is every chances that marrying someone you are not on the same page with will definitely go wrong because there will always be arguments rather agreements.
The marriage will go well yes if the couples are saved but it now depends on the couple to make efforts to keep the marriage going no matter how much we are saved we all human and without God we are nothing
marriage to me is all about understanding each other weaknesses and encouraging one another although i think being on the same spirituality is another factor that contributes to a good home. spirituality doesnt guarantee a good home but spirituality, good character with the help of the holy spirit are A factors.
Marriage without a foundation built on God cannot last. Both partners should have a life of Christ in them because without Christ there will be soo many temptation and tribulations in the relationship not to talk of marriage which has soo many ups and down. There may love, understanding, trust but without the presence of God and His grace that marriage can never work.
that is very true,it is the foundation of every relationship
i feel every relationship should be solely built on the love of God cause without him blessing the union,the union is bound to be broken.
There must be uniformity in all sphere of marriage. Religion is sensitive matter. This has always bring chaos in marriage
No i don’t agree
Yes o!The bible tells us that when a man leaves father and mother to cleave to his wife, the two become one flesh.And it also says that light and darkness cannot mix.So therefore, I strongly believe that there is great need for them both to have the same faith. Else!It will never succeed.
A couple being saved is very relevant as both of them can, when troubles come, join hands together to pray and they also share common beliefs about relationship with God. When one partner is down spiritually, the other is able to help him/her to get up.
most times it is not always like that it depends on your own spiritual standard, if it is really strong, it might turn in to fiance. and with the help of your spiritual standard you can help upgrade your partner.
It’s very true because it takes two to tango… The bible also tells us that” two cannot work together except they agree”.
Getting married to someone who doesn’t share you faith and views is just wrong and most of the time leads downhill because there would be so much conflict in the home which is not good. Marriage with God as the head is just the best decision
Nice!
yes i agree. no matter how much a couple love each other, if they are not on the same page spiritually, that marriage can quickly turn into a fiasco. this is because they have different beliefs. and no matter how much they try to understand each other, a time will come when they simply won’t be able to tolerate each other.
a couple being saved makes for a smooth marriage because love found in christ is true and everlasting. it does not envy, it is kind. whenever trials and temptation come their way, they can join hands together and overcome it.
Marriage with someone you are not on the same spiritual page with is not advisable because you might end up not being happy with the marriage. Yes i agree.
Yes, a couple being saved will definitely make for a smooth marriage because it will pave ways for love, understanding, tolerance and peace.
no matter how compatible a couple may be if the presence of God is not recognised in there marriage, the marriage will not be as sweet as the couple that has both God and are compatible……………………………..
I like this. Bless you, dear Cynthia!
Marriage to someone you’re not in the same spiritual page with is a fiasco from the start.
There are many saved couples who are not finding it easy in their homes. Satan is not tired of fighting or does not give up when you get saved.
I do agree with that motion, being in the same faith with your spouse is an assured ticket towards a happy and spiritually firm married life.
being on the same spiritual level can lead to a smooth marriage although their might be some challenges
I believe that every marriage should try and build their foundation on God . And couples should also strive to be in same page to avoid chaos in the marriage.
To be on the same spiritual level helps a times but it is not a guarantee to a happy marriage, and yes one need to be saved
Love this! Bless you, my dear!
to marry someone you are not in the same religion with can not make your marriage turn into a fiasco because you people are in love with each other but if you want a smooth relationship you both need to be spiritually strong.
I like the balance in your view. Bless you!
It is said that one with God is majority. Both Raphael and Sharon needed to embrace God as they have done for a smooth married life.
Yes, I do. It will definitely bring disorderliness and lots of problems.
God first the rest follows happiness favour wealth nice one
Marriage to someone you’re not on the same page with spiritually is likely not to be an easy one.
“Does a couple being saved really make for a smooth marriage?” Not necessarily. A lot of things (including love, trust, patience, commitment, etc) need to be in place for a marriage to be successful.
I think that a marriage based on different beliefs can turn into a fiasco..it is important to be born again for a smooth relationship or successful marriage..
I do not totally agree with the assertion thou every marriage needs spiritual help from God to succeed but i think what marriage really needs is love and understanding.
Enter your comment here…yes I believe when you are getting in any sort of commitment most especially marriage you should have one faith very important
Every marriage encounters challenges,being saved doesnt mean that there wont be misunderstanding but then it gets sweeter afterwards……….Nice one ma
I’ll say a very big YES to that assertion…even on a physcal basis, when there are no mutual understanding between a couple,there hardly ever be any form of agreement between a couple not to talk of the spiritual aspect.
God is and gives everythng and as such,one needs to be in good terms wth him in other to have that “everything”.
On the other hand,although I don’t understand the aspect of being saved you are talkng about but if it’s on being reborn spiritually, then I’ll say being saved is a part but not the whole criterion for a smooth marriage.
I have my reasons… if two ppl re coming together in marriage just because they are reborn when love is lacking, is it of any use? Again, if their’s no atom of agreement between such ppl and they dare to come together in marriage, I bet you, that marriage won’t last.
marriage i think is eternal so why not choose someone you love and live the happy life although most marriages require God’s intervention
it is a good thing for couples to be on the same page when it comes to spirituality, it makes them to remain together
i believe that the spiritual help meant here is love and understanding which God uses to bless a man and woman uniting as one.the assertion is quite justifiable because what happens in the spiritual realm determines how the physical life will be
well i agree with that assertion being in marriage requires spiritual balance.. nice one ma
Exactly, just as it is in the Bible, with God, every thing is possible, so Sharon giving her life to Christ will attract God’s attention 2 solidify her marriage with Raphael
Yes, I agree and no, I don’t believe the marriage will be entirely smooth.
I think marrying someone with same spiritual status is the best because it leads to a better understanding of the couples especially in times of trials
Marriage without Christ is like a train without an engine, nothing moves forward. I strongly believe that if you are not on the same page spiritually with your spouse things can Quickly turn to a fiasco
D word marriage has a lot of tins revolving around it e.g understanding, trust,friendship love,care and a whole lot but if u married 2 somone and don’t have dis characteristics in ur marriage, that marriage is doomed
Obviously, two persons with different spiritual views would actually turn into fiasco. However, having true spiritual understanding of Christ really helps to actualize smooth marriage.
Marriage is a once in a lifetime decision and should not be one sided. There would be promiscuity and other issues when a couple are not born again. But these problems are reduced when Christ is involved. Take for example, Igwe’s marriage scandal with his mistress. If he and his wife knew Christ, they would handle the situation by going through prayers
I like your explanation but you know it only applies when the Christians are actually living out their faith.
I think marriage is more than mere spiritual affiliation based on creed and faith. this is because I believe that it is about God bringing two imperfect persons together so as to build a fortune based on mutual ground. in the cause of this plan, sentiments are dropped, love is built, things are let go of or adopted and oneness is achieved. This is the point where the two do virtually that which the other does.
As to the other question, I think no. Love, understanding and tolerance is the key to a happy relationship and marriage and not the level of one’s spirituality. Or have we not seen what we refer to as “jim jim” brothers and sisters with bad tempers that scared every man and woman coming into their lives away and their homes without peace? Or have we not seen Pastors keeping malice with their wives at the back of the congregation?
Yes and yes. When you marry someone with the same ideologies as yours, there will be no contradictions and when Christian couples encourage themselves and take solace in the word of God and above all help each other walk into their purpose.
I think it is wise to first understand God’s reason for bringing you too together before you consider whether you two share the same spiritual status. I’m loving the way this is ending.
Like the scripture says that we should not be unequally yoked with unbelievers, if Sharon and Raphael is not the same page then u never can tel what might happen later in the marriage. Its best marrying someone that has same faith with you.
I like the Scripture you quoted. It really nails the point.
there is this odd feeling people in a relationship get, a negative one though especially when they do not practice the same religion. it is one of the obstacles in marriages today.it depends on the level of understanding they have towards each other
Marriage is like a road.. Some parts are smooths, other parts have pot holes… But that what makes it a road. For one to have a great family.. One is to be on the same spiritual page with his/her spouse..
no it wont lead to fiasco but for the fact that they are approaching this marriage issue with one heart and spirit putting God first,he will see them throughout their marriage life.because anything handed over to God does not rust.and God is the holder of every family so therefore he will see them through.
Marrying someone you aren’t on same page with can probably turn into a fiasco and also being of the same faith, i think their is no problem because in every situation, there must be a way out….
very well ! for a marriage to flourish, both man and wife must be on the same spiritual page. marriage is not a bed of roses, there will always be bad times and in those bad times, they have to be on the same page spiritually, fighting in prayer for the success of their marriage. if one person is doing all the work, the bond may be lost and ruin the marriage.
I love this explanation. It portrays a lot of wisdom for your age. Bless you!
Marriage with someone you are not on the same spiritual level could be dangerous because it is a life time agreement between a man and a woman. This shows that we should be careful not destroy the future generation.
it may not turn out a total failure if one partner is highly spiritual tries to carry the other along. and also a couple that is safe must make smooth marriage because they are rooted in Christ.
i close my eyes and i imagine a couple scene
wife: honey, i need us to go on a three day fasting and praying session
husband: nkechi!!!!! stop this nonsense. three days without eating. are you mad? pls fast alone and die alone.
wife: but darling, it is not good …………………………………
husband: please where is my earpiece, let me listen to music and have peace.
indeed it becomes a crazy fiasco.
being born again is not a guarantee for marital bliss, you once wrote a story on that ma.
So, where do you stand? You painted one picture and then made a contradictory statement.
yes I agree, because” the spiritual controls the physical”. when a couple is saved, they are both shielded in the grace of God. The fear of God in a man or woman can make the marriage easier to be in. The issue of “marriage” is not like a holiday instead, it is everlasting.In marriage, ill habits are dropped and responsibilities taken up.
it will not be a complete failure if a partner that is highly spiritual marries one that is not the marriage will work out if the spiritual one tries to carry the other along.
What a coincidence! Both of them gave their lives to God same day?. Wow!
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People should always marry whom they’re on the same page with. Marrying an unbeliever when you’re a believer will drain you.
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Couples being saved could make for a smooth marriage. A man who has fear of God won’t cheat on his wife and vice versa.
Sharon parents are so funny though. You need to be on the same page spiritually with the man you want to spend your life with, forever is a long time to compromise. A couple that also seeks God first and salvation will definitely enjoy the benefits therein.
Marriage to someone who is not born again is like putting your hands inside fire because both of you are not on the same page and will tend to disagree on almost every matter.
I love the fact that they are moving on with their lives, not minding what the Igwe’s are doing. I love her parents, their simplicity amazing but she truly has to help them to be saved so they can understand that premarital sex/giving birth before marriage is wrong even though it is with the man/woman you want to marry.
It might not turn into a fiasco immediately, there might just be problems. Couples with the same faith still can’t have a smooth marriage. Marriage is not a bed if roses, if it were so, then less divorce will be recorded. Knowing themselves daily helps to strengthen and build the relationship.
Marrying someone on the same page with you spiritually is advisable because it help smoother the marriage not that challenges will not come but when the two of you are spiritually endowed, you will handle it maturely. Sharon’s parents a funny though, they have dirty mind.
Marring someone that is not on the same page with you spiritually will definitely result to fiasco. There will always be disagreement between the two. Yes a couple being saved will make for a smooth marriage, peace, understanding and tranquility will be their guiding principle.
It is a good idea that this would be married are handing themselves into God’s hands, who knows when the enemy will strike. A marriage bonded with God is always successful. He who does not know God,cannot love for God is love and love is the very foundation of a good and successful marriage. Again I do not support premarital sex but Sharon’s parents thinking she owns the child she’ll be coming with is not a bad idea at least for a woman of her age, and also they are old enough and expecting their grandchildren soon enough.
I think it is a good idea that this would-be married are handing themselves into God’s hands, who knows when the enemy will strike. A marriage bonded with God is always successful. The Bible says “He who does not know God,cannot love for God is love and love is of God”. Love is the very foundation of a good and successful marriage. Again I do not support premarital sex but Sharon’s parents thinking she owns the child she’ll be coming with is not a bad idea at least for a woman of her age, and also they are old enough and expecting their grandchildren soon enough.
Now i believe that this two are really destined to be together. Even now that they are passing through difficult tme, they still decided to stick together. That is true love.
Lol, are you sure Sharon parent(s) is African, their grandchild indeed. Anyways, I’m scared, Raphael seems to really be in the middle of all these Igwe’s family problems, I hope no harm will be done to him.
When a couple is saved, their marriage is going to be very smooth. Reason is because they will have the fruits of the spirits, some of which are love, gentleness e.t.c. These are qualities that help the couple to fight temptations and trials that come with marriages