Marriage Monday: The power of example

What kind of marriage was modeled for you? I’m sure some of us would say we were blessed to watch strong examples of oneness, while others would say that what we saw made us want to cover our ears and close our eyes. There’s no denying that the marriages modeled for us impact how we approach a relationship. There’s also no denying that WE have the potential to impact others through the power of example.

While in Asia, our team ministered to a tribal people group. Strong marriage and the value of women, in particular, have not been a characteristic of their culture. They’ve been mostly preoccupied with survival, but as God’s truth starts to filter into their darkness, they’re discovering what God intended for the union of a man and a woman. They are also starting to learn that God highly values women.

 

Our team spent weeks preparing our teaching and the testimonies, songs, and skits to illustrate truth. While God used our ministry in ways beyond what we imagined, He also used a single act that accomplished so much through the power of example.

 

Our evening session was wrapping up, and we were all just beginning to gather our instruments (shakers and a tambourine) and Bibles and fans and water bottles to head out into the ebony tropical night. Our tribal lady friends were arranging their brightly colored, intricately sewn bags and moving out to the patio to re-claim their shoes. The door flew open, and a man entered. It was the husband of the women’s leader, our partner and friend. With a boyish smile and arms full of flowers, he burst in and stood up front, announcing what we later understood was the day of their 18th anniversary. He honored her for the woman who serves with him, his partner and lover, and he publicly embraced her and kissed her. She was overcome. The women were hysterical with joy. It was what they all longed for. It was a real example of how a man of God loves his woman, and it spoke volumes.

Perhaps change in a culture begins with a single act and the power of example.

• How could God use your example to impact your children?
• Your relatives?
• Your friends?
• Your culture?

A new marriage legacy or a greater one could begin with you and the power of your example.