Mutual Sanctification

"but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. (2 Peter 3:18)"

Paul and I try to support each other with our decisions. Sometimes, however it's easier than other times. I had no problem agreeing with him, when he said we could get this new kitten! I love the fact that Paul too loves animals (perhaps not as much as the children and myself, but he still does love them). I also was pleased to support him as he excitedly planned the idea to collect shoes for our trip to Ethiopia.

Not only do we try to support each other with our decisions, but we also try to submit to the biblical practice of mutual sanctification. Martha Peace explains this process well in her book, "The Excellent Wife". She writes "Submit to and participate in the process of mutual sanctification. Mutual sanctification is the process of helping each other become as much like the Lord Jesus Christ as possible."

She continues to write, "The husband as spiritual leader of the family is to help his wife grow as a Christian."

"Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered. (1 Peter 3:7)"

"The wife is to be a “helper suitable” to help her husband grow and mature as a Christian."

Then the LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him.” (Genesis 2:18)

"The goal of the Christian husband and wife in their marriage is to have a oneness that is characterized by a loving spiritual and physical bond that glorifies God and thereby enhances personal spiritual growth." (Ephesians 5:22-23; Galatians 6:1)

"For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh." (Genesis 2:24)

"This spiritual growth and oneness in marriage does not happen by chance. It happens in direct proportion to how diligent a couple is in pursuing it. Oneness and spiritual growth are achieved as each partner helps the other become as much like the Lord Jesus Christ as possible."

It is my prayer that I can be a helper suitable to Paul and that I can help him become as much like the Lord Jesus Christ as possible. I am thankful to God for giving my a husband who pursues spiritual growth and oneness in our marriage!