Paul David Tripp has a new book out on marriage titled, What Did You Expect? Redeeming the Realities of Marriage, and you can see it and/or buy it by clicking on the title.  Although we haven’t read it yet, we are certain it will provide insight into familiar truths that we have not yet considered in the way the author is presenting it.  This is why we love Tripp so much; he offers fresh perspective.  Below is a quote to ponder:

“One way God establishes beauty is by putting things that are different next to each other. Isn’t this what God does in marriage? The moon would not be so striking if it hung in a white sky; in the same way, the striking beauty of a marriage is when two very different people learn to celebrate and benefit from their differences and to be protected from their weaknesses by being sheltered by the others strength.”

In our 31 years of marriage, we have come to appreciate and even value our differences because we see how we have each changed for the better as a result.  I was such a proud, controlling and impatient woman who happened to marry (by God’s amazing grace) a man who is humble and lives to serve and help others however he can.  I used to think bad of my husband because he takes his time in making decisions.  I thought of this as weakness.  I now see it for what it is – wisdom.  By his help and leadership in my life, I am not the same wife he married.  I have grown into one who comes alongside and helps him instead of nagging him to change.  I can’t imagine where I would be had I married someone just like me!  I shudder to think of it!

Makes me wonder about e-harmony relationships that match people based on their similarities.  Is this truly how to find lasting love?  I believe it’s the differences which bring balance and strength to marriage.   Where one is weak the other is strong.

What do you think?  Are you more like your spouse or more opposite?  How has it strengthened you?  How has it affected your marriage?