Marriage is a sacred institution that is highly valued by Christians. It is more than just a legal union between two people; it is a covenant that is made before God. The Bible provides a rich foundation for marriage, with principles and guidelines that are designed to help couples build strong and lasting relationships.
God’s Design for Marriage
The Bible establishes the foundation for marriage in the very beginning, with the story of Adam and Eve. God created Adam first, and then created Eve as a helper for him. Together, they were joined in marriage, and God declared that they were to become “one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). This design for marriage shows God’s plan for a man and woman to come together in love and unity, becoming one in both body and spirit.
The Importance of Love
One of the key foundations for marriage in the Bible is the importance of love. In fact, the Bible says that “God is love” (1 John 4:8). Love is the foundation for all relationships, including marriage. The apostle Paul describes love in great detail in 1 Corinthians 13, saying that it is patient, kind, not jealous, not boastful, not proud, not self-seeking, not easily angered, and keeps no record of wrongs. Love is the cornerstone of a strong and healthy marriage, and it is essential for couples to continually nurture and grow in love for one another.
The Role of Selflessness
Another important foundation for marriage in the Bible is selflessness. The apostle Paul says that husbands are to love their wives as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her (Ephesians 5:25). This means that husbands are to put their wives’ needs above their own, just as Christ put the needs of the church above his own. Similarly, wives are instructed to submit to their husbands as unto the Lord (Ephesians 5:22). This does not mean that wives are to have no voice or that husbands should dominate their wives, but rather that wives should respect and honour their husbands as the head of the household.
The Sanctity of Marriage
The Bible provides a solid foundation for marriage, with principles and guidelines that are designed to help couples build strong and lasting relationships. By following God’s plan for marriage, couples can honour the sanctity of their union, nurture their love for one another, and become one in both body and spirit.
With God’s help, couples can build a marriage that is truly blessed and fulfilling.
