“Arise, for it is your task, and we are with you; be strong and do it”. (Ezra 10:4 ESV)

Every thriving and lasting marriage or relationship stands on the pedestal of responsibility. In the scriptural context above; Ezra’s responsibility was to “let judgment be executed on those who would not do the law of God” (Ezra 7:26), and so to constrain them to obedience it was therefore his place to inquire into the serious matter brought before him, and set it right no wonder the “very great congregation” which had gathered around him, and of whom Shechaniah was the spokesman, took an undertaking to be with him, and support him, in the steps which Ezra took in the matter. Why? Because they saw he was responsible to give results, he was a man equal to the task, he was a man of responsibility. Little wonder Ezra rose up and put the leading priests and Levites and all Israel under oath to do what had been suggested as they took the oath. (Ezra 10:4).

Friends, in dreams begins responsibility. A befitting name for responsibility is “doing your duties”. No marriage or relationship survives when both parties are failing in their marital duties. No spouse loves an irresponsible partner. As a wise wife, your duty includes ensuring your house is tidy, your family eats well and when they should, always looking appealing and good before your husband, and making sure the family income and resources is properly and wisely managed as you’re to manage the home front. As a faithful husband in God’s eyes, your obligation is to be the Priest of your family, providing direction and provision for your family financially, spiritually, socially etc.

Folks, marital success demands responsible partners that are in agreement one to another. Learn to be responsible for your actions and reactions and mistakes. Since our actions and reactions are equal and opposite, what this translate to mean is that when you are wrong, accept your flop and do everything possible to resolve the issue. When you misbehave, own up to your actions, make amends and apologize sincerely. This is because there are several relationships that have packed up because both parties were not sincerely sorry for their actions and so are not ready to make the relationship or marriage work.

In the words of Michael Korda; “one quality that all successful people have is the ability to take responsibility. Are you single or married? To build and enjoy a peaceful, healthy and godly relationship, these words must not be found wanting and far from your mouth. “I love you”, “I miss you”, “I am sorry”, “please forgive me”, “you are special”, “thank you”, “you’re the best”, “I care and will always do” etc. These words can heal and bring relief to an heavy and angry heart and also make a heart to fall in love. As often as you use them, it helps to set issues that were heading the wrong way in order. Let everything in your marriage or relationship be in order for you are mandated by God to be responsible for this. (1 Corinth 14:40).

Prayer Lines: Father, my relationship/marriage will not fail heaven so help my weakness in Jesus’ name.