5 Steps Toward Refreshing Your Marriage

Oxford dictionary defines refresh as “giving new strength or energy to, reinvigorate.”

We all get to places in our lives where we need a refresh button. Sometimes in the busy-ness of life we find ourselves just happy to get through the day, and it can be difficult to slow down enough to invest time into our marriages.

A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes​ ​others​ ​will​ ​be​ ​refreshed​.

Proverbs 11:25

The Bible teaches that refreshing other people will refresh us. Do you believe that you and your spouse are together for a reason? That together, with your specific strengths and weaknesses, you can make a unique impact on your neighborhood or community? Having a vision like this will help you and your spouse find refreshment that lasts, regardless of the challenges life may throw at you.

This article will give you five steps from the Bible to finding this refreshing vision for your marriage.

1. Refreshment starts with God

7 The law of the Lord is perfect (flawless), restoring and refreshing the soul; The statutes of the Lord are reliable and trustworthy, making wise the simple. 8 The precepts of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart; The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.

Psalm 19:7-8 (AMP)

The Word of God, as described in this passage of Scripture, has the power to refresh our souls. When we need refreshment in our marriage, we often find ourselves looking to things like TV, movies, extra sleep, and vacations to find the strength we are looking for. While there’s nothing wrong with these things, the refreshment they provide is usually temporary. Eventually, we have to go back to work and life and we just feel tired all over again.

But the Bible can refresh us on a deeper level by changing our perspective when we are anxious, stressed, or tired. For example, when you feel really anxious about an upcoming deadline, the Bible can help you calm down and remember that God is in control and on your side. Scriptures can also help us refocus on God’s bigger picture and purpose for us, beyond just getting our work done or making your boss happy.

How often do you utilize the Bible to help you find strength and renewal?

This week, try using the Bible study site deepspirituality.com for articles and devotionals that will deepen your attachment to the Word.

2. Relationships refresh

13 In the midst of all that has happened, though it has been difficult, we are comforted and encouraged. When we saw the relief and joy on Titus’s face, we celebrated even more because his spirit had been totally refreshed by you.

2 Corinthians 7:13 (VOICE)

Spiritual relationships can refresh our spirits. In times of need, when things are difficult, do you tend to think that relationships are the answer? Or do you tend to draw back and isolate, trying to figure out your problems on your own?

Take time to write down 3-4 friends who are refreshing to be around. Next time you are going through something difficult, even if it’s just a stressful day, initiate with those friends over the phone or to spend time together. You’ll find your spirit more refreshed than if you just tried to handle things on your own!

3. Repentance brings refreshment

19 Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. 20 Then times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord, and he will again send you Jesus, your appointed Messiah.

Acts 3:19-20 (NLT)

Refreshment comes when we chose to turn away from our sins and turn back to God. For example, sometimes when I’m really stressed I think that it’s because of my schedule or outward circumstances. But usually, there is some sin in the way I’m handling my stress that’s really burdening me – like I am being self-indulgent and only thinking about how I feel and what’s going on with me. When I repent of that sin and start thinking about how to encourage others, I usually feel happier.

What sins do you need to repent of to experience the refreshment the scripture describes?

4. Good news refreshes

30 A twinkle in the eye delights the heart. Good news refreshes the body.

Proverbs 15:30 (GW)

In a world where most of the news we hear is somber, this scripture emphasizes the importance of sharing positive things going on around us.

Think about how much time you spend reading bad news versus how much time you spend reading and spreading good news. It’s far easier to fill our minds with negativity than positivity.

If you’re looking for some good news, check out projectdoinggood.com to find refreshing stories about the good that people are doing in different communities. Whose day can you change by sharing good news?

5. Refreshment is contagious

The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.

Proverbs 11:25 (NLT)

The Bible teaches us that the best way to grow and prosper is by extending generosity to others. If you stop and think about it, there is probably a neighbor or a family member or a friend in your life who could use some kindness. Perhaps it’s a neighbor who just had a baby and could use a meal, or a coworker who seems down who you may just need to take a coffee break with. God will give us opportunities to refresh those around us if we are willing to look!

I find that I’m much happier when I stop thinking too much about myself. Generosity doesn’t have to be grandiose; it can just be taking the time to smile and say hello to someone you pass by. Who can benefit from your generosity today?