I used to drive a cute, little, compact car in college. It was the perfect size to take back and forth as I commuted to school, went out with friends, and went on trips.
As I drove to school, I was often rushing to class after staying up late to complete an assignment. Even though I knew I was supposed to check the oil when I filled the tank, I would often put it off.
The damage wasn’t something that happened right away. In fact, I couldn’t tell you when it happened, but somewhere along the line, the oil level went down further and further.
I continued to drive the car, even after the exhaust from the car started to change.
I finally admitted there was a problem, when a police officer stopped me because the exhaust was now a danger for those who were in traffic with me.
When my dad and brother took the engine apart, they replaced and repaired multiple parts that were damaged because I had not done the simplest task- checking the oil level.
After nearly 100 hours of labor and over $200 spent on parts, they had repaired the engine. It was quite a feat; they were proud of what they had done and so were my mom and I.
When they started the car, they learned that there was a crack in the head. No amount of work, parts, money, or time would repair that crack. It was broken for good.
It was a very costly lesson.
*Sarah’s marriage (see It was the underwear) was just like the engine.
The simple task of taking the time to sit down as a husband and wife to discuss things in their relationship, was not being done. The lack of communication allowed the issues to fester.
When there are underlying issues that are not acknowledged, the relationship pressure is going to build. Tempers will flare and hot words are spoken that will inflict pain and push away the other person.
No amount of repair, time, money, etc. would replace the simple task of adding oil as it was needed. Just like no amount of time, energy, submission, etc. could repair the damage in Sarah’s marriage.
It would take a complete replacement of the broken foundation that was under their marriage. Unless both Sarah and her husband were willing to work on it it was not going to change.
There comes a time when it is necessary to speak plainly. Even when it is painful. Cars are declared totaled, marriages are declared broken.
God is the only One- the ONLY ONE- with the power to change hearts. To mend relationships. To heal marriages.
Only God. There is no mechanic, no doctor, no medication, that can restore and redeem and heal. Only God can do that.
Only God.
Best Beloved, there are no easy words. No platitudes.
Only prayer. Only God.
Precious One, pray for your marriage. If you are single, pray for the marriages in your life. Pray for your future spouse.
If you have issues in your past get help, counseling, seek a mentor, a support group.
The enemy has claimed too many marriages, too many relationships.
It’s time to do the most important thing- bring God into your life, your heart, your marriage, your healing.
Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain, (Psalm 127:1 ESV).
Sending love,
oxoxoxo
wildmercies 