Marriage is a sacred union that has been part of God’s plan for humanity since the beginning.
But what exactly constitutes a marriage in God’s eyes?
Is it simply a legal document or a ceremony?
Or is there something deeper, more profound, that God intends for marriage?
In this article, we’ll explore what makes a marriage in God’s eyes by examining biblical principles, the importance of commitment, and the spiritual dimensions that define a truly God-centered marriage.
Let’s dive in.
The Biblical Foundation of Marriage
Genesis: The First Marriage
The Bible’s first mention of marriage is found in Genesis.
God created Adam and Eve and united them in the Garden of Eden:
“Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24)
This verse lays the foundational principle for marriage: the union of a man and a woman into one flesh.
It’s more than just a physical bond; it’s a profound spiritual and emotional connection.
Jesus’ Teachings on Marriage
Jesus reinforced the sanctity of marriage in the New Testament:
“So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.” (Matthew 19:6)
Jesus emphasizes that marriage is a divine institution, not just a human contract.
It’s a commitment that’s meant to be lifelong and unbreakable.
Key Elements of a Marriage in God’s Eyes
1. Covenant, Not Contract
In today’s world, marriage is often viewed as a contract—a legal agreement that can be dissolved if it doesn’t work out.
However, in God’s eyes, marriage is a covenant.
A covenant is a solemn, binding agreement made before God.
It’s not based on convenience or conditions but on unwavering commitment and love.
In Ephesians 5:25, husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loves the church—sacrificially and unconditionally:
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” (Ephesians 5:25)
This kind of love is enduring and doesn’t waver with circumstances.
2. Unity and Oneness
The concept of “one flesh” from Genesis 2:24 underscores the deep unity that marriage entails.
This unity is not just physical but also emotional, intellectual, and spiritual.
In marriage, two individuals become one entity, sharing their lives completely.
3. Mutual Respect and Love
Ephesians 5:21-33 describes a model for mutual submission in marriage:
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” (Ephesians 5:21-25)
Here, submission isn’t about dominance but about love and respect.
Each partner is called to honor and serve the other, creating a harmonious and loving relationship.
4. Commitment and Faithfulness
Marriage in God’s eyes demands faithfulness.
Hebrews 13:4 states:
“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.” (Hebrews 13:4)
Faithfulness isn’t just about physical exclusivity but also emotional and spiritual loyalty.
It’s about standing by each other through thick and thin, maintaining the sanctity and purity of the marital relationship.
5. Partnership and Support
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 beautifully describes the strength of partnership:
“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. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
A Godly marriage is a partnership where both partners support and uplift each other.
It’s a relationship where love and help are freely given and received.
Practical Steps to Build a Godly Marriage
Communication
Open, honest, and loving communication is vital. Share your thoughts, feelings, and dreams with your spouse.
Listen actively and with empathy.
Prayer and Spiritual Growth
Praying together and individually strengthens your spiritual bond.
Seek God’s guidance in your marriage and strive to grow in faith together.
Forgiveness and Grace
No marriage is perfect. There will be mistakes and misunderstandings. Ephesians 4:32 encourages us to:
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)
Practice forgiveness and extend grace to each other.
Quality Time
Spend quality time together.
Whether it’s a date night or a simple walk, these moments strengthen your bond and create lasting memories.
Serving Each Other
Follow the example of Christ, who came to serve.
Look for ways to serve and bless your spouse daily, from small acts of kindness to significant gestures of love.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
External Pressures
Society often presents a different view of marriage, emphasizing personal happiness over commitment.
Stand firm in your faith and values, and seek support from your church community.
Conflict and Disagreements
Conflict is inevitable, but how you handle it matters.
Approach disagreements with a spirit of reconciliation, seeking to understand rather than to win.
Balancing Responsibilities
Life’s demands can strain your marriage.
Prioritize your relationship and make time for each other, even amidst busy schedules.
Conclusion
In God’s eyes, marriage is a profound and sacred union that goes beyond legalities and ceremonies.
It’s a covenant of love, unity, and mutual respect.
By embracing these biblical principles and nurturing your relationship with love, faithfulness, and support, you can build a marriage that not only honors God but also brings joy and fulfillment.
Remember, a Godly marriage is a journey of growing together in love and faith.
Keep God at the center, and your marriage will be a beautiful reflection of His love and grace.
Sources:
- The Holy Bible, New International Version (NIV)
- The Meaning of Marriage by Timothy Keller
- Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas
FAQs: What Makes a Marriage in God’s Eyes?
1. What is the biblical definition of marriage?
In the Bible, marriage is defined as a union between a man and a woman where they become “one flesh” (Genesis 2:24).
This union is both physical and spiritual, designed by God to be a lifelong commitment that reflects His relationship with humanity.
2. How is a marriage considered a covenant rather than a contract?
A marriage covenant is a solemn and binding agreement made before God.
Unlike a contract that can be broken if conditions are not met, a covenant involves an unconditional commitment to love and honor your spouse, mirroring the sacrificial love Christ has for the church (Ephesians 5:25).
3. What does “one flesh” mean in a marriage?
The term “one flesh” signifies the deep unity and bond that marriage entails.
It means that a married couple is joined together in every aspect—physically, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually.
They share their lives completely, becoming inseparable in God’s eyes (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:6).
4. How important is mutual respect in a marriage?
Mutual respect is crucial in a Godly marriage.
Ephesians 5:21-33 emphasizes the importance of husbands and wives submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.
This mutual submission fosters a loving, supportive, and respectful partnership.
5. Why is faithfulness essential in a marriage?
Faithfulness is essential because it reflects the commitment and trust inherent in a Godly marriage.
Hebrews 13:4 highlights the importance of keeping the marriage pure and free from adultery.
Faithfulness encompasses physical, emotional, and spiritual loyalty to your spouse.
6. How can couples strengthen their spiritual bond?
Couples can strengthen their spiritual bond by praying together, reading Scripture, attending church, and seeking God’s guidance in their marriage.
Growing in faith together helps build a solid spiritual foundation and deepens their relationship with each other and with God.
7. What role does forgiveness play in a marriage?
Forgiveness is vital because no marriage is free from mistakes and misunderstandings.
Ephesians 4:32 teaches us to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving.
By practicing forgiveness and extending grace, couples can overcome challenges and maintain a healthy, loving relationship.
8. How should couples handle conflicts and disagreements?
Couples should handle conflicts with a spirit of reconciliation.
Approach disagreements with a focus on understanding rather than winning.
Effective communication, patience, and a willingness to listen are key to resolving conflicts constructively.
9. What are practical ways to serve your spouse daily?
Serving your spouse can be as simple as performing small acts of kindness, like making them coffee in the morning or offering words of encouragement.
It can also include more significant gestures, such as planning a special date or helping them with their responsibilities.
Following Christ’s example of service fosters love and unity in marriage.
10. How can couples balance their responsibilities and still prioritize their marriage?
Balancing responsibilities involves intentional planning and prioritizing your relationship.
Set aside regular time for each other, such as date nights or weekend getaways.
Communicate openly about your schedules and make adjustments to ensure you have quality time together amidst your daily commitments.
11. What should couples do when facing external pressures on their marriage?
When facing external pressures, it’s important to stand firm in your faith and values.
Seek support from your church community, family, or marriage mentors.
Stay connected with each other and communicate openly about the challenges you’re facing.
12. How can couples ensure their marriage reflects God’s love and grace?
To ensure your marriage reflects God’s love and grace, keep Him at the center of your relationship.
Practice unconditional love, extend grace and forgiveness, and strive to grow together in your faith. Let your marriage be a testimony of God’s love to others.
Need more guidance? Feel free to reach out or consult additional resources like The Meaning of Marriage by Timothy Keller and Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas for deeper insights into building a God-centered marriage.
