Today's scripture: Ephesians 5:31-33
Marriage is far from a sacred covenant these days. Many people enter the “state
of holy matrimony” with the thought that if it doesn’t work out, then we’ll
just end marriage A and move on to marriage B. In fact, I read not too long ago
about “starter marriages.” Kind of like a starter home.
This was never, ever God’s intent. Marriage is a covenant relationship, a
“usually formal, solemn, and binding agreement.” It is not meant to be broken.
When a man and a woman join together, they become “one flesh.” One flesh. A
former pastor of mine used to illustrate this by gluing two pieces of paper
together. Yes, you could separate the two, but not without seriously damaging
each page.
Even more importantly, marriage on earth represents Christ’s relationship with
His church. Nothing can separate those of us who follow Him from our Lord and
Savior (Romans 8:37-39).
And just as nothing can separate Christ from His bride, nothing should separate
a married couple. The Bible only gives two “reasons” for divorce: infidelity
(Matthew 5:32; 19:9) or if a believer’s unbelieving spouse chooses to leave the
marriage (1 Corinthians 7:11-15). And this is just my opinion, but I would add
an implied third reason: domestic abuse. Physical, emotional, and mental abuse
doesn’t equate with respecting one’s spouse or loving as Christ loves His
church.
We Christians need to get back to God’s word regarding marriage, with husbands
loving their wives and wives respecting (and loving too!) their husbands.
No comments:
Post a Comment