Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Two are better than one,
Because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, one will
lift up the other; but woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one
to help him up.
Again, if two lie down
together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may get overpowered, two can withstand it; and a threefold cord is not
quickly broken.
These verses remind us that God
did not create us to walk through life alone. God designed us for companionship
and community, and the bond between husband and wife is a perfect example of
this divine plan. In a world that often feels cold and isolating, the warmth
and comfort of a loving spouse are truly a gift from above.
Matthew 19:6
They are no more two, but
one flesh. What God has joined together, let not man split apart.
As we consider the significance
of being together with our spouses, let us remember our marriages are not only
about our happiness and fulfilment. They are also about reflecting the love of
Christ to the world and being a living testament of His grace. In Ephesians
5:25, husbands are instructed to "love your wives, just as Christ loved
the church and gave himself up for her." Likewise, wives are called to
submit to their husbands "as the church submits to Christ"
(Ephesians 5:24).
This mutual submission and
self-sacrificing love are the foundation of a strong and enduring marriage.
When we put the needs of our spouse above our own, we are not only honouring
them but also honouring our Lord and Saviour, who showed the ultimate act of
love by laying down His life for us.
In this journey of life, we
will undoubtedly face challenges and hardships. Yet, when we stand together
with our spouses, united in faith and love, we can overcome any obstacle that
comes our way. As the Apostle Paul writes in Romans 8:31, "If God is
for us, who can be against us?"
So, how can we cultivate a
Christ-centred marriage that is marked by togetherness and unity? Here are a
few practical steps to consider:
1. Pray together:
Prayer is the lifeline of our relationship with God, and it should also be an
essential part of our marriages. Make time each day to pray with your spouse, lifting
your joys, concerns, and dreams to the Lord. As you do so, you find that your
bond with one another and with Christ grows stronger.
2. Study the Word
together: The Bible is our guidebook for life, and it contains timeless
wisdom for building a strong and healthy marriage. Set aside time each week to
read and discuss Scripture together, asking the Holy Spirit to illuminate your
hearts and minds as you seek to understand and apply God's truth to your lives.
3. Serve together:
Our faith should not be a private affair, but a call to action in the world.
Look for opportunities to serve others together, whether that be through your
local church, a community organisation, or simply by extending kindness and
hospitality to your neighbours. As you work side by side to advance the Kingdom
of God, you find that your love for one another deepens and your marriage will
be enriched.
4. Encourage one
another: Life can be difficult, and we all need words of affirmation and
encouragement to keep us going. Make it a priority to express your love,
appreciation, and support for your spouse. Speak words of life and hope into
their heart, and be their biggest cheerleader as they pursue their dreams and
passions.
5. Forgive one another:
No marriage is perfect, and we will inevitably hurt and disappoint one another.
Yet, as Christ has forgiven us, so too must we extend grace and forgiveness to
our spouses. Be quick to say "I'm sorry" and even quicker to offer
forgiveness, remembering that love "keeps no record of wrongs"
(1 Corinthians 13:5).
Beloved brothers and sisters, let us remember our marriages are a sacred covenant, not only between husband and wife, but also between us and our Heavenly Father. As we seek to be together with our spouses in love, faith, and service, may we be a shining example of Christ's love to the world, and may our homes be a sanctuary of peace, joy, and grace.