The Romantic
By David Branker
Over the years, I have come across a few people that I believe were great role models for an excellent marriage. Interestingly, I’ve noticed something in common with these romantics – somehow, even after years of marriage, the husband still refers to his wife as his bride.
After years of ups and downs, children, grandkids, hair-loss, clothing that have seemed to change and no longer flatter her, or even dental loss, she’s not just his wife – she is his bride. You see, the term “bride” describes relationship, whereas the terms housewife, mother, grandmother, etc, describe function and responsibility, even though these roles are just as important. The people I know didn’t limit their view of marriage to a ceremony but made it a lifelong romance.
Jesus Christ – the Ultimate Romantic, doesn’t just view His church as a “missional” bunch of people, or simply his hands and feet extended (though that may also be true), He is coming for a bride. A bride that is without spot or blemish – made pure by the blood He shed on the cross for her.
THREE TAKEAWAYS:
To the leader/preacher: Don’t let what began as a love encounter with the Savior to become relegated to duty or obligation. Let your passion for Him always trump your passion for ministry.
To the Husband: I realize that this may be a bit of a stretch for us get-it-done, told-you-I-loved-you-at-the-altar kind of guy. However, perhaps you can ask God today, to help you to always see her as a bride and not just someone who serves a function. It may help to keep your marriage new and full of life. It is in this place that her beauty will always overshadow her flaws.
To the believer: Whether you are content with your service to God or not, please know that He doesn’t love you for what you do, but for who you are. Don’t ever allow anyone to convince you otherwise. Choose to give your heart entirely to Jesus Christ, the Lover of your soul, the Ultimate Romantic.
Revelation 21:2
I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.
David
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Pastor David,
I love this message. Perhaps if I had heard this a couple years ago, I would not be separated from my bride today. Please pray for me that she and I will be together again, under His covenant of marriage.
God Bless.
This is so very very good. In our faith life there is a constant tension that exists between what we do as Christians and who we really are in Christ. When will we realize how refreshing it to be in relationship with Christ. It is at those times we have true spiritual clarity, even if for just a brief period of time.
Pastor Branker, Wonderful article! Thankyou so much.
Good word Pastor David! You are on fire these days. Your messages are full of revelation. To God be the glory! Keep these messages coming. What a blessing they’ve been to my husband Robby (chucky cheese)and I. It seems as if God has answered spiritual questions that we’ve had through your messages. Thanks for following the leading of the Holy Spirit!
And my take away from this as a wife is to always see my husband as my groom – the one who courted me and waited for me with anticipation at the altar. We should always be skipping down the “aisle” with joy toward our husbands, right, Pastor David? Too many times we just forget that our husbands still wait with anticipation for our attention, favor, and affection. Wives, don’t let life and children get you so busy that you have nothing left for the man who loves you.
So good! During the fast I fell more in love with God and he revealed his love for me in such amazing ways. I find myself longing to spend more time with Him daily. It is so amazing!!!
Just like a new romance when you can’t stand to be away from one another for more than a couple of hours. I can honestly say that after almost 18 yrs of marriage Eddie and I still feel this way about one another. I love my husband more today than the day we married – I am so richly blessed!
Romance is a fruit of a cherished relationship.
Good Word, Pastor David! I hope I’m always my honey’s Bride!
Thanks so much for this, Pastor David! Awesome!