Today, I sit here in Knysna, South Africa, aboard Anchored In Hope, gently swaying with the rhythm of the water. The weeks of bad weather feel like a distant memory now as I soak in the warmth of the sun and the melodies of the birds. Since embarking on this journey with Anchored In Hope, I’ve spent countless hours in deep reflection—pondering where I once was, who I used to be, and the person I’ve become today. If I could turn back time, would I have been brave enough to do things differently, or would it still have taken me so many years to realize that in a hostile marriage, no one truly wins?
Join me on a journey as we explore marriage and the intricate moments where our choices and behaviours shape our story.
Marriage is one of life’s greatest mysteries—a union of two imperfect people, sealed with promises that only God can fully sustain. Over the years, I’ve realised that no matter the day, whether filled with joy or marked by trials, I am married. And not just to a man, but to my person, the one God has chosen for me to walk through this life with.
Every day with Andre is a new day worth embracing. Some days, I find myself questioning things, feeling frustrated, or wanting more. Sometimes, I wish he could change in ways that align with my expectations. But here’s the thing: I didn’t just make a vow to him, I made a promise to God. In my anger, when I long for something different, I am reminded that I am bound by something greater than my fleeting emotions.
Marriage without God is a losing battle. It’s like running in circles, thinking we’re moving forward but only wearing ourselves out. I’ve made so many immature decisions along the way, both in life and in this marriage, but God—Has never stopped showing me the meaning of true love and commitment.
When I choose to look at Andre through God’s eyes, everything changes. The small annoyances fade, and I see the kindness and grace of God reflected in him. My soul fills with peace. This is my person—the one who fills the loud and the quiet moments of life. He cushions the blows when life gets tough, fills the empty spaces with his presence, and stays when the world feels like it’s walking away.
Is it always easy? No. But I’ve learned that loving someone isn’t about what they can offer or how they meet my expectations. It’s about seeing the heart of the person God has given you, recognizing their worth, and understanding that you are part of something sacred—something far bigger than the two of you. This is the covenant I made with God.
Marriage is a journey, and each day, I recommit to being my husband’s best friend, his confidante, his partner. Not just because of who he is, but because I now understand what it truly means to be joined together by God. This covenant is worth fighting for. It is worth choosing love over resentment, grace over bitterness, and faithfulness over frustration.
There will be ups and downs, but through it all, I know that this is my person. And with God at the centre, we will continue to grow, love, and stand strong—together.
A Covenant of Grace
– Gwennie
In every dawn, I choose again,
To walk beside my closest friend.
Through days of joy and nights of tears,
We stand, despite the fleeting years.
In moments when my heart grows cold,
And anger’s voice is loud and bold,
I pause, and through God’s eyes, I see,
The gift you are, ordained for me.
You fill the silence, soft and still,
You cushion all life’s hardest hills.
When all have left, you stay behind,
A constant love, so pure, so kind.
Though sometimes I may yearn for more,
Or dream of things unknown before,
It’s you I choose, again, anew—
For in God’s love, I see us through.
A promise made, not just to you,
But to our God, who sees us too.
Through every trial, joy, and strife,
I’ll be your friend, your love, your life.
For marriage, without God, will fail,
A ship adrift without a sail.
But anchored in His grace divine,
I know your heart will always be mine.
So here we stand, with hearts entwined,
A covenant, through God, defined.
And every day, through thick and thin,
I’ll love you more, my dearest friend.
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of marriage and for the covenant we made before You. In the moments of frustration, when my heart wrestles with doubt or longing, remind me of the sacred promise I made—not just to my spouse, but to You. Help me to see my husband through Your eyes, full of grace and kindness, even when things are difficult. Teach me to love as You love—selflessly and with unwavering commitment.
Lord, guide us in our marriage, that we may stand firm through the storms and cherish the quiet joys. Strengthen our bond each day and fill our home with Your peace. Remind us that with You at the centre, our love can withstand anything. Thank You for my husband, my partner, my friend. Help me to be the best reflection of Your love in his life, every single day.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
