Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #8 — Better Together

Picture: Counsel #8 — Better Together CR 242.1

The best part of marriage is having a best friend to do life with. Before you get married, it’s important to have become best friends with that person first, as being married to someone who isn’t your friend will leave you feeling miserable and unsatisfied. When thinking of the power of bonding, what do you and your spouse enjoy doing together, just for the fun of it? CR 242.2

Whether it’s cooking a new recipe, volunteering at a shelter, walking through your neighborhood, or putting together a challenging puzzle on a quiet night in, shared experiences with the love of your life create an unbreakable connection. That being said, every moment doesn’t need to be deep, intense, or all-time-consuming—like going on a 2-week cruise to the Bahamas. Instead, the humblest activities can bring the greatest amounts of joy. For example, serving together on a mission trip, attending a Bible study as a couple, or gardening side by side can give you precious memories to hold and a foundation of teamwork that will extend into the harder moments of life. Jesus understood that people work better together, and this togetherness should continue long after you say, “I do.”^[257] CR 242.3

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.” Ecclesiastes 4:9 NIV CR 242.4

“Christian unity is a mighty agency.” Ellen White in My Life Today , p. 276 CR 242.5

Reflect: What regular activities bring you joy as a couple? CR 242.6