HUMILITY IN MARRIAGE.

MAIM NEWSLETTERS
Monday 17th February 2025.

Dear reader,
HUMILITY IN MARRIAGE.
“Prostrating to greet a dwarf will not reduce my height to their height!”

This proverb made me reflect on the role of humility in marriage, an essential yet often overlooked quality. It seems many marriages face challenges because one or both spouses lack humility. In a marriage, certain traits should reflect humility, and these traits can make a significant difference in the strength and harmony of the relationship.

Here are some key signs of humility in a marriage:

1. Readiness to Apologize.
   A humble spouse is quick to admit when they’re wrong and offers a sincere apology. They prioritize the well-being of the relationship over their personal pride. In fact, if you are humble and truly care for your marriage, you will even be willing to apologize when you feel you are not at fault, especially if your spouse sees the issue from a different perspective.
2. Readiness to Accept Apologies.
   Humility also involves being gracious when your spouse apologizes. It means forgiving without holding grudges and working together towards resolution. When you refuse to accept your spouse’s apology, you’re not contributing to resolving the conflict but rather prolonging it.
3. Less Likely to Take Offense.
   Humble spouses understand that disagreements are natural in any relationship. They are less likely to take offense at small mistakes or criticisms, which helps foster a peaceful, understanding relationship.
4. Respect for Your Spouse.
   A humble spouse deeply respects their partner by valuing their opinions, feelings, and needs, treating them with kindness and consideration. This respect is a fundamental element of a loving, supportive marriage.
5. Not Thinking Too Highly of Yourself.
   Humility in marriage means recognizing that no one is perfect, including yourself. A humble spouse doesn’t see themselves as superior but instead values their partner as an equal. They understand that mutual respect and equality are key to a strong partnership.
6. Less Likely to Personalize Assets.
   A humble spouse keeps in mind the biblical principle from John 3:27, which says, “A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.” This attitude helps them avoid referring to marriage assets with possessive terms like “I” or “mine.” Instead, they see all possessions as jointly owned by both partners.
7. More Submissive to Your Spouse.
   Humility involves prioritizing your spouse’s desires and needs. A humble spouse is willing to listen, collaborate, and compromise rather than always insisting on their own way. They understand that marriage is a partnership where both voices matter.

In conclusion, humility in marriage is not about diminishing yourself or allowing your partner to take advantage of you. Instead, it’s about mutual respect, understanding, and a willingness to put the relationship above personal pride. When both spouses practice humility, it strengthens the bond and nurtures a deeper connection.

QUOTE
…humility in marriage is not about diminishing yourself or allowing your partner to take advantage of you. Instead, it’s about mutual respect, understanding, and a willingness to put the relationship above personal pride.

Dr. Mike Oluniyi.