Without any hesitation at all, I would have to say that the first and most consistent influence on my marriage has been my best friend and companion in ministry for 30 years, my lovely wife LaHoma. I am so fortunate to have a wife that shares my passion for ministry, and so many shared interests. She even surprised me on my 40th birthday by getting certified to scuba dive, because she knew how much I enjoyed it!
At a very crucial point in our relationship, we were introduced to Gary Smalley’s “Hidden Keys for Loving Relationships” Group study. That was close to 20 years ago now, and to this day I often share those same principles with couples who are facing difficulties in their marriage. Most of all, those principles have helped me to understand and value the ways that we are different, and to affirm those traits in her and love her for who she is.
Maybe it goes without saying, but the very greatest influence on my marriage has been the Word of God and the Power of the Holy Spirit. When I get selfish and I’m not loving my wife as Christ loves His bride, the Holy Spirit convicts me and brings me back in line with the truth of God’s Word.
