Soaring like eagles in marriage

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31

Delving deeper into the lives of eagles, one of nature’s most majestic birds of prey, provides us with powerful lessons – not just for us as individuals, but also for our marriages.

Strength beyond your own
Eagles are known for their ability to soar high above the earth, with some eagles reaching heights of over 4km. It’s not only the strength and size of their wings and the structure and control of their feathers that make it possible for them to fly that high. The air currents flowing beneath their wings play a critical role. In marriage, human capabilities are not always enough. Couples need strength beyond their own. When you rely only on your resources to sustain your marriage, you will likely become tired and despondent. But when you trust in God, He becomes the wind that lifts your relationship to new heights.

Rise above the storms
Eagles are unique in that they don’t fly away from storms – they fly above them. Storms in marriage are inevitable, whether they take the form of financial stress, communication breakdowns, or personal struggles. But if you put your hope in God as a couple during these tough times, you can rise above the storms, just like eagles. God won’t always take the storm away. However, He will give you the necessary strength and vision to navigate the storm together so that you can ultimately rise above it.

Protection and guidance are critical to growth
Just as a mother eagle protects her young from all the dangers surrounding them and teaches them to fly so that they can become the eagles they’re meant to be, the Holy Spirit is your protector and guide. In marriage, both you and your spouse are continuously growing – spiritually, emotionally, and even in how you love one another. Throughout this growth, which can be uncomfortable and even painful, the Holy Spirit is always with you, ready to guide, teach, and convict you with love and gentleness whenever you stumble or face temptation. If you invite the Holy Spirit into your marriage, you will therefore be equipped to handle any trails that come your way and grow together in faith and love.

Created to soar, not to scratch around in the dirt
Comparing chickens and eagles provides a powerful image of contrast. Chickens are bound to the ground, scratching around in the dirt. Eagles, on the other hand, are made to soar. In marriage, you can choose to remain stuck where you are, trapped by old habits, unresolved conflict, or complacency. Or you can encourage one another to rise higher, toward your God-given potential. God did not create you to merely survive in marriage, but to thrive.

When you and your spouse consistently put your hope and trust in the Lord, submitting your relationship to Him in all aspects and through all seasons, you’ll begin to discover the full beauty and purpose of your relationship. You will soar.

Questions to think and talk about:
1. In what areas of your marriage do you feel like you’re “scratching around in the dirt” rather than soaring?
2. What storms are you currently facing? How can you support each other to rise above these storms?
3. Do you tend to rely on your strength in your marriage, or do you allow God to carry you through the difficult seasons? What can you do or change to become more reliant on God?