“Those who get married at this time will have troubles…”  – the Apostle Paul
– 1 Corinthians 7:28

Now there’s a verse you never hear mentioned in a wedding ceremony. I’ve officiated a lot of weddings over the years, but never have I started out by saying, “We’ve gathered here today in the sight of God to let you, and all those that are married, know that you are going to have troubles.” Yikes… who wants to hear that, especially on your big day?

But the truth remains that even in the best of marriages, you will have troubles. It’s just a normal part of relationships. But what is not normal is when you have troubles that just don’t go away. Have you ever had a problem that seems to never get resolved properly? Is there something that seems to resurface, an issue that you keep walking around over and over again?  Have you ever said, “Can we not have this conversation again!?!” That’s what we call the crazy train. Renee and I are familiar with it because we’ve taken our fair share of rides.

There is a verse I remember hearing my mom say often as a child and then she had us boys commit it to memory:

“God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.”
– Psalms 46:1

Who is God for you when you run into a challenge in your marriage? He is the Lord your refuge – the one you run to, the one who is safe, the one who protects you. He is your strength! Yes, He provides for you – supernatural strength for all you face. And make sure you catch this – He is always ready to help in times of trouble. He is your ever-present help! EVER-PRESENT means He is always with you, always for you.

I want to encourage you today if you are married or want to be some day! Yes, in marriage there will be troubles, there will be trials. It’s a normal part of life. But here is something else that can be normal for you – the knowledge that God is your ever-present help with every trial you face! You are not alone. The one who created marriage and the family is here right now to help you.

Would you join me and hide this verse in your heart? Go ahead and make it personal and pray this with me right now:

“Father, I thank you that you are my refuge and strength. You are my hiding place, you are the one who keeps me safe. Thanks for giving me access to supernatural strength – the strength I need to be the godly (man or woman) you have called me to be. What a delight it is to know that you are always ready to help in times of trouble! You are my ever-present help! O Lord, let that one sink deep down into me today. What a thought – the Creator of the universe is my ever-present help. Help me to care for my family in such a way that pleases you. Help me to honor you by treating my spouse and family in a way that represents your heart. Amen.”
– Pastor Kevin Berry