Article | - 4:36 pm
Bishop Renato and His Wife, Cristiane, Shared Teachings for a Healthy Marriage Partnership
During the hours leading up to the Love Therapy, held at the Temple of Solomon in Brazil, the “Singles’ Hour” event took place, providing learning, reflections, and opportunities for new relationships.
The event’s main theme was “The First Look,” in addition to interactive dynamics, such as the “MATCH Tent” and support from the “Quero Te Conhecer” app. The meeting highlighted personal preparation as essential for love life, promoting self-knowledge and trust in God’s timing.
Soon after, the Love Therapy meeting began, led by Bishop Renato Cardoso and his wife Cristiane. They spoke about the right tools for a successful love life.
If the ax is dull, And one does not sharpen the edge, Then he must use more strength; But wisdom brings success. (Ecclesiastes 10:10)
“This verse teaches us the importance of being prepared and using the right tools both in practical life and in love. Just as a woodcutter needs a sharp axe to make his work easier, we also need wisdom and adequate tools to improve our relationships,” said the bishop.
In our daily lives, we use tools to make our tasks easier. Likewise, in our love life, the right tools can help us in:
• Solving recurring problems: Practical strategies, such as the “10-Second Eraser,” can turn arguments into mutual learning.
• Strengthening communication: Know how to approach sensitive topics respectfully and effectively.
• Preventing conflict: Recognize signs of problems before they become major issues.
• Enhancing camaraderie: Work as a team to overcome challenges and achieve common goals.
These tools prevent us from doubling our efforts unnecessarily and promote harmony and mutual growth.
Starting next week, we will begin a special purpose in the Love Therapy. We will introduce a practical tool at each meeting. You will learn how to:
• Defuse conflicts before they escalate;
• Deal with inappropriate behavior;
• Resolve financial or routine disagreements;
• Apply principles from God’s Word to real situations.
“With the use of the right tools, you will discover that small adjustments can generate big transformations in your love life,” reinforced Cristiane.
In the second part of the Love Therapy meeting, Bishop Renato commented on the lessons of the well. “In the Bible, the concept of the ‘well’ is mentioned several times and is a profound symbol of sustenance, purpose, and partnership. The well was not only a source of water but also a space where the differences in roles between men and women were clearly delineated, reflecting the harmony in fulfilling distinct functions,” he said.
In the biblical context, it was the man’s responsibility to locate water, dig the well, and protect it. His strength and determination were essential to ensuring the survival of his family and community. He faced challenges such as digging in the wrong places and starting over until he found water. He also had to defend the well from external threats.
On the other hand, it was the woman’s job to draw water from the well and carry it home, as illustrated in the story of the Samaritan woman. They fulfilled these roles without resentment or dispute. There was mutual understanding and respect, reflecting a natural and functional partnership.
Just like in a well, roles must be well defined in marriage. Each person must fulfill their role with excellence, without conflict or comparisons. This does not mean a lack of mutual support but rather the appreciation of what each person brings to the relationship.
Cristiane explains that there is often a conflict of roles in modern relationships, influenced by external voices or “polluted sources.” The result is a lack of unity, respect, and harmony, which can lead to marriage breakdown.
Bishop Renato added, “For marriage to function according to God’s plan, it is essential that spouses accept and respect their roles. This does not imply rigidity or universal standards; each couple can adapt their responsibilities according to their abilities and needs.”
“The problem arises when there is disrespect or competition within the relationship. The solution is to drink from the right source: the water Jesus offers. He promises that whoever drinks this water will never thirst again and will become a fountain of eternal life,” he concluded.
The Love Therapy meetings aim to help couples and singles solve issues in their love lives. They take place every Thursday at 7 PM at select locations of The Universal Church. Call 1-888-332-4141, text 1-888-312-4141, or visit The Universal Church for more information.
Love Therapy meetings directly from the Temple of Solomon are available on Univer Video.
Contributors:
Sabrina Marques (Translated and Adapted From Original)
