There is a zeal in the heart of God for the complete transformation of our souls. Thus the person we are going to marry, or are already married to, is on a timeline of transformation with the Holy Spirit. We are making the decision in marriage, to fully support, intercede for, and encourage, one primary person on their journey through life, and we are relying on them, to do the same for us.

We are making the decision in marriage, to fully support, intercede for, and encourage, one primary person on their journey through life, and we are relying on them, to do the same for us. Click To Tweet

One Bible verse that is a clear description of this process, says to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” Phil.2:12-13 The Amplified translation renders it this way: “…continue to work out your salvation [that is, cultivate it, bring it to full effect, actively pursue spiritual maturity] with awe-inspired fear and trembling.” Bringing what we have in Christ to “full effect”, in a humble posture, motivated by a desire to please God, will transform you into the husband or wife that God has called you to be. 

Transformation is not an optional experience for Christians, unless you are willing to settle for living with a dull spirit and using props to get by. Without question, everyone is seeking fascination of some sort. We were designed for discovery. The pearl of great price, Mt. 13:45-46, eternally shifted the course of my life, and is an ongoing investment that I make.

Transformation is not an optional experience for Christians, unless you are willing to settle for living with a dull spirit and using props to get by. Click To Tweet

The timeline of transformation is a principle that we present to every premarital couple that we counsel. We celebrate and rejoice with couples in the wedding preparation, but we are seeking to lay a foundation that will support a lifelong relationship. God’s timetable for the spiritual and emotional growth of your spouse may come as a surprise in your marriage. There will not always be an advance notice from heaven to prepare you. But be assured, in the timeline of your marriage, maybe in year one or year five, the zeal of God will intersect with your desire to live a life that pleases him, and this will be the opportunity to partner together in transformation. Renewal and restoration, is every person’s intended destiny. 2 Cor. 4:16

As in the natural, inner renovation includes living in a temporary situation.There will be seasons of scaffolding, when specific repairs or additions are being worked on. They are not permanent, but they are often there longer than you would prefer. This is the timeline of transformation.