Relationships are hard. They take work and time, and they don’t always go our way. More than being a book about dating and marriage, The Mingling of Souls was about me. I realized how often I confuse expectation with reality when it comes to relationships. It made me more aware of my own issues and insecurities, and helped me realize that it’s not just about finding the right person, but it’s about being the right person.
One of the things I loved the most about The Mingling of Souls is that it’s for anyone at any stage of relationship – from those who aren’t dating to those who have been married for a long time. Matt Chandler wrote this book from a place of Biblical truth and personal honesty. He’s not shy to share some of the struggles that he and Lauren have faced, but he gives wise counsel on how to have healthy, God-honoring relationships. There’s something everyone can learn within the pages of this book.
When I read this quote in the introduction, it was so profound that I had to put the book down for a minute: “The reason we struggle in relationships, marriage, and sex is because we are sinners. Therefore, the antidote for our sin must be the antidote for our struggles.” What profound truth. This book digs down to the sin root of our issues and gives great hope for God’s design when it comes to relationships.
Quotes:
“When a relationship deepens, weaknesses come to light, and heart-level issues are raised, many couples pretend those issues aren’t there.”
“God’s plan is for a man and a woman in the bond of the marriage covenant to have their souls – not just their bodies – become one.”
“We will always be somewhat broken, and we will never be perfect.”
“No, marriage and sex are good, but Jesus is better. He is better than everything in life. He is better than life itself. He is life!”
“If the gospel of Jesus Christ is not at the center of a wedding ceremony, it is likely not going to be at the center of the marriage. This would be a grave mistake, however, as marriage itself is designed to be a great reflector of that gospel.”
No matter where you are on the relationship spectrum, this book is beneficial. Every page points back to the gospel and God’s design for not only relationships, but also love, marriage, sex, and redemption. I believe it’s absolutely worth your time to read The Mingling of Souls.
On February 19-20, Matt & Lauren Chandler will discuss the elements of this book in more detail during the Mingling Souls Simulcast. You can join us from your home, in a small group, or as a church! The teaching will focus on building healthy relationships in marriage. Matt & Lauren will cover topics such as attraction, romance, friendship, and fighting fair. If you are curious to learn more about God’s design for love, marriage, and sex, join us for this online streaming event. Registration gives you access to the simulcast for up 30 days after the event occurs. The simulcast will not be available after March 20.
When Mary Margaret isn’t coordinating leadership events for women or hosting the {MARKED} podcast, you can find her watching Florida Gator football, cooking with friends, or reading a good book. She loves teaching God’s Word, Mexican food, a good pair of jeans, and calling Nashville home. Follow her on Twitter: @marymargaretc.