Tuesday, December 9 A threefold cord cannot quickly be torn apart.​—Eccl. 4:12.

[Áine]

Tuesday, December 9

A threefold cord cannot quickly be torn apart.—Eccl. 4:12.

 

When a couple value their friendship with their heavenly Father, they readily apply his advice, which in turn helps them to avoid and overcome problems that could cause their love for each other to cool off. Spiritual people also strive to imitate Jehovah and cultivate qualities that he displays, such as kindness, patience, and forgiveness. (Eph. 4:32–5:1) A couple who display such qualities make it easier for love to thrive. A sister named Lena, who has been married for more than 25 years, says, “It’s easy to love and respect a spiritual person.” Consider a Bible example. When Jehovah had to choose a couple to be the parents of the future Messiah, He chose Joseph and Mary out of the many descendants of David. Why? They both had a personal relationship with Jehovah, and Jehovah knew that they would build their marriage around their love for him. w23.05 21 ¶3-4

[ASIIMWEV]

*LESSONS FROM TODAY'S TEXT.* 

Here are some *lessons* from the

 

*Tuesday, December 9 text.

 

1. *Jehovah Must Be Central in Marriage*:

 

A strong, lasting marriage needs more than just human effort—it requires Jehovah at the center, forming a "threefold cord" that strengthens the bond.

 

2. *Spiritual Qualities Strengthen Relationships*:

 

When both mates cultivate godly qualities like kindness, patience, and forgiveness, it becomes easier to maintain peace and love in the relationship.

 

3. *Personal Relationship with Jehovah Matters*:

 

Like Joseph and Mary, couples who maintain a close relationship with Jehovah are better equipped to face challenges and raise faithful children.

 

4. *Applying Bible Principles Brings Stability*:

 

The Bible provides timeless counsel for marriage, helping couples to avoid emotional reactions and respond with wisdom and humility.

 

5. *Spiritual Compatibility Is Important*:

 

Choosing a mate who loves Jehovah and lives by spiritual values contributes to long-term unity and happiness.

 

6. *Respect and Love Go Hand in Hand*:

 

Spiritual maturity helps both partners show mutual respect, which strengthens emotional and spiritual intimacy.

 

7. *Good Marriages Take Work and Prayer*:

 

A lasting marriage involves effort, prayer, and willingness to apply God's Word daily—not just feelings.

 

8. *Jehovah Rewards Spiritually-Minded Couples*:

When couples build their relationship on spiritual goals, Jehovah blesses them with joy, strength, and peace.

[Barbara Anne]

Strong, steady, secure

[kejedo]

My husband passed away over three years ago. He was never baptized; we were married before I came into the truth. He  mellowed over time; we were married over 40 years. I frequently hear sisters say they don't know why his death has saddened me; I've even heard one sister say he probably won't be resurrected.  I would like to respond and use this scripture, but am afraid to hear someone say I did not have that third cord to count on. 

 

[Pink Butterflies]

39 minutes ago, kejedo said:

 I frequently hear sisters say they don't know why his death has saddened me; I've even heard one sister say he probably won't be resurrected. 

 

I’m so sorry your husband passed. You were married 40 years and that should be celebrated! Those “sisters” sound like a bunch of high mean girls. I don’t know how to use that scripture in any responses but I would ask if they know who’s going to be in resurrection? 

[kejedo]

Thanks for the positive response. This is a trying time for me, as it is for most. My first born son died 3 months ago and my only son that lives in the same state as I has illegallly drained my life savings. I wish I could talk with my husband about what to do next. Overwhelmed and trying to make sure I am prepared for part on midweek meeting, Thurs. Glad I have an assignment b/c I feel very distanced from cong.

 

[Áine]

1 hour ago, kejedo said:

My husband passed away over three years ago. He was never baptized; we were married before I came into the truth. He  mellowed over time; we were married over 40 years. I frequently hear sisters say they don't know why his death has saddened me; I've even heard one sister say he probably won't be resurrected.  I would like to respond and use this scripture, but am afraid to hear someone say I did not have that third cord to count on. 

 

I don’t have the three fold cord either but I’m extremely happily married for well over thirty years… those sisters sound extremely mean and I’m glad that they won’t be doing the judging of either you or I!!

 

I also know of several so called perfect three cord marriages that have split up, it is NOT a guarantee of anything !

 

I was so sorry to hear of the passing of your husband he sounds like he was a lovely man… remember Jehovah reads hearts and not those vicious sisters x

[kejedo]

The sisters helped me out quite a bit by hosting a Funeral Repast for my eldest son (also not in the truth.) His death at age 44 is under police investigation.  Oops, OT again.