Why Does God Want Us to Marry?

Marriage is more than a social construct; it’s a divine institution with profound spiritual and practical implications.

If you’ve ever wondered why God places such a high value on marriage, you’re not alone.

Let’s delve into the reasons why marriage is so important in God’s eyes, drawing from biblical teachings and timeless wisdom.

Marriage Reflects God’s Covenant Love

At its core, marriage is designed to mirror the relationship between God and His people.

The Bible frequently compares the covenant of marriage to God’s unbreakable covenant with humanity.

The Image of Christ and the Church

In Ephesians 5:25, Paul writes,

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”

This verse underscores the sacrificial love that should characterize a marriage, reflecting the ultimate sacrifice Christ made for His church.

Marriage is a living illustration of how Christ loves us — unconditionally, sacrificially, and eternally.

When you commit to your spouse, you’re embodying this divine love, showcasing God’s love story to the world.

A Covenant, Not a Contract

Unlike a contract that’s often temporary and conditional, a covenant is enduring and unconditional.

God’s covenants with humanity, such as His promises to Abraham and the covenant through Christ, are based on unwavering commitment.

Similarly, marriage is a covenantal relationship.

Malachi 2:14 says,

“The Lord was witness to the covenant between you and the wife of your youth.”

When you marry, you’re entering into a sacred, lifelong bond, echoing God’s faithfulness to us.

Marriage Promotes Personal Growth and Holiness

Marriage isn’t just about companionship or love; it’s also a tool for personal and spiritual growth.

Sharpening Each Other

Proverbs 27:17 says,

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

In marriage, you and your spouse challenge and refine each other, fostering growth.

Through conflicts and triumphs, you become better versions of yourselves.

Learning Unconditional Love

Marriage teaches you to love unconditionally, mirroring God’s love for us.

It’s easy to love in good times, but true love perseveres through challenges.

This kind of love is patient, kind, and enduring — qualities detailed in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.

Building Character and Virtue

Living with another person requires patience, forgiveness, and humility.

Ephesians 4:2 encourages us to:

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”

In marriage, you practice these virtues daily, drawing closer to the likeness of Christ.

Marriage Provides Stability and Nurturing Environment for Family

God designed marriage to be the foundation of family life.

A stable, loving marriage provides the best environment for raising children.

A Safe Haven

In a world that’s often unpredictable, marriage offers a secure environment.

Children thrive in homes where love and commitment are modeled daily.

Psalm 127:3 tells us,

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.”

A strong marriage fosters a nurturing space for these blessings to grow.

Teaching Values and Faith

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 emphasizes the importance of imparting God’s commandments to our children:

“Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road.”

In a marriage, you and your spouse are your children’s first and most influential teachers.

Economic and Emotional Stability

A solid marriage often brings economic and emotional stability, providing a firm foundation for a family.

Proverbs 31 speaks of a virtuous woman who contributes to the household’s prosperity, highlighting the role of both spouses in creating a stable home.

Marriage Fulfills Our Deepest Desires for Companionship

God acknowledged our need for companionship from the beginning.

In Genesis 2:18, He said,

“It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”

Partnership in Life

Marriage provides a partner to share life’s journey.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says,

“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”

This partnership extends beyond mere help; it’s about sharing dreams, burdens, and joys.

Emotional and Spiritual Support

Having a spouse means having someone who understands you deeply and supports you emotionally and spiritually.

Galatians 6:2 encourages us to “Carry each other’s burdens,”— a principle beautifully lived out in marriage.

Companionship and Intimacy

Marriage fulfills our deep-seated need for companionship and intimacy.

The Song of Solomon celebrates the beauty of marital love and intimacy, illustrating how deeply fulfilling it can be when grounded in God’s design.

Marriage Fulfills God’s Creative Purpose

Marriage is part of God’s grand design for humanity, playing a crucial role in fulfilling His creative purpose.

Be Fruitful and Multiply

In Genesis 1:28, God commands Adam and Eve to

“Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it.”

Marriage is the primary context for fulfilling this mandate, perpetuating life and stewarding God’s creation.

Stewardship and Dominion

Together, as husband and wife, you steward God’s creation, working in partnership to fulfill His purpose.

Genesis 2:15 describes God placing Adam in the Garden of Eden to “work it and take care of it.”

Marriage is a partnership in this divine stewardship, managing not just the earth but also the blessings and responsibilities God entrusts to you.

A Witness to the World

Your marriage is a testimony to the world.

Matthew 5:14-16 calls us to be “the light of the world.”

A godly marriage shines brightly, showcasing God’s love and faithfulness to those around you.

Conclusion

God’s vision for marriage goes far beyond what the world often portrays.

It’s a sacred, transformative, and fulfilling covenant that reflects His love, nurtures personal growth, and provides a stable foundation for families.

Embrace the divine purpose of marriage, and let it be a testament to God’s enduring love and faithfulness in your life.

As you walk through life with your spouse, remember the profound spiritual and practical significance of your union.

Let your marriage be a beacon of God’s covenant love, a tool for growth, a foundation for your family, and a reflection of God’s creative purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Why God Wants Us to Marry

Why is marriage important in Christianity?

Marriage is crucial in Christianity because it mirrors the covenant relationship between God and His people.

It represents Christ’s sacrificial love for the church and serves as a living example of God’s commitment to us.

How does marriage reflect God’s covenant love?

Just as God’s covenant with humanity is enduring and unconditional, marriage is designed to be a lifelong commitment.

It mirrors the sacrificial and faithful love that Christ has for His church, emphasizing the sacred and enduring nature of this bond.

What does the Bible say about the roles of husbands and wives?

The Bible teaches that husbands should love their wives as Christ loved the church (Ephesians 5:25), and wives should respect their husbands (Ephesians 5:33).

This mutual love and respect create a balanced partnership where both partners support and uplift each other.

Why does God want us to marry instead of staying single?

While singleness is also honored in the Bible, marriage provides unique opportunities for companionship, personal growth, and the fulfillment of God’s creative purpose.

Marriage is a covenant that fosters deep emotional and spiritual bonds, reflecting God’s relationship with His people.

How does marriage contribute to personal and spiritual growth?

Marriage challenges individuals to grow in patience, forgiveness, and unconditional love.

It sharpens character and encourages spiritual virtues such as humility and gentleness.

Through marriage, couples refine each other, becoming better reflections of God’s love.

What role does marriage play in raising children?

Marriage provides a stable, nurturing environment for raising children.

It serves as the primary context for teaching values, faith, and life skills.

A strong marriage models love and commitment, offering children a secure foundation for their development.

How does marriage provide emotional and spiritual support?

Marriage offers a partnership where spouses support each other emotionally and spiritually.

This support system helps each partner navigate life’s challenges and joys, fostering a deep sense of companionship and mutual care.

What is the significance of marriage in fulfilling God’s creative purpose?

Marriage plays a vital role in fulfilling God’s command to “be fruitful and multiply” (Genesis 1:28).

It also involves stewarding God’s creation and working together to manage the responsibilities and blessings He provides.

How can a marriage be a witness to the world?

A godly marriage serves as a testament to God’s love and faithfulness.

By reflecting Christ’s love and maintaining a strong, supportive partnership, married couples shine as a light to the world, showcasing the beauty of God’s design for relationships.

Can a person still serve God if they are not married?

Absolutely. Singleness is also valued in Christianity, and many individuals serve God wholeheartedly without being married.

The apostle Paul, for example, remained single and encouraged others to do the same if they felt called to it (1 Corinthians 7:8).

God’s plan for each person is unique, and both marriage and singleness can glorify Him.

What are the challenges of marriage, and how can they be overcome?

Challenges in marriage include communication issues, conflicts, and balancing responsibilities.

These can be overcome through mutual respect, patience, forgiveness, and seeking guidance from God’s Word.

Open communication and a commitment to growth and understanding are essential.

How can couples strengthen their marriage according to biblical principles?

Couples can strengthen their marriage by prioritizing love and respect, praying together, studying the Bible, and actively working on their relationship.

Attending church, seeking counsel from mature Christian couples, and regularly practicing forgiveness and grace are also beneficial.

Why does God emphasize the permanence of marriage?

God emphasizes the permanence of marriage because it reflects His unbreakable covenant with humanity.

Marriage is intended to be a lifelong commitment, symbolizing the steadfast and enduring nature of God’s love for us.

What should someone do if they are struggling in their marriage?

If you’re struggling in your marriage, seek support through prayer, counseling, and open communication with your spouse.

It’s important to address issues with love and patience, seeking guidance from trusted mentors or church leaders if needed.

Remember, God is always present to provide strength and wisdom.

By understanding the biblical foundation and purpose of marriage, you can appreciate why God values this sacred union and how it can profoundly impact your life and faith.