God’s Design: Unity
Today's Scripture
“Haven’t you read the Scriptures?” Jesus replied. “They record that from the beginning ‘God made them male and female.’” And he said, “‘This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.’" - (Matthew 19:4-5 NLT)
Thoughts for Today
God's design for marriage is for spiritual and physical unity.
Spiritual unity can come only from the joining of a man and woman who both belong to Christ. This forms a bond like no other. Both put Jesus first. Both look to the Bible for answers. Do they make mistakes? Of course. But they can seek God's forgiveness, seek their spouse's forgiveness, and move on. They can encourage and help each other in their Christian walk. Together they can pray for each other and their family.
This kind of unity is described in Ephesians 5:22-32. It is meant to model Christ and the Church.
As discussed yesterday, the physical unity in marriage is designed for marriage alone. Unfaithfulness destroys that unity. The physical part of marriage is always best when each of the marriage partners is more concerned about the other's pleasure. When it's an unselfish union.
Consider this …
As husband and wife, you will not always agree with each other, but if you are walking in unity, you will be able to discuss the issues and pray about them. To respect each other's opinions and together to submit to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 5:22-32 is a wonderful guide to help married couples develop the kind of unity God planned for marriage. Wives respecting their husbands and submitting to them as the Church submits to Christ. Husbands loving their wives as Christ loves the Church. Submitting to each other out of reverence for Christ.
Prayer
Father, help us walk in unity in our marriage. Help us to respect each other and love each other through all life's challenges. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from …
Committed Couples: God's Plan for Marriage & the Family by Dr. Jimmy Ray Lee. Whether in a private or group setting, couples will be encouraged spiritually and romantically as they research biblical principles that affirm their vows. This book can help every married couple grow spiritually and emotionally in their relationship. It is also a great help for engaged-to-be-married couples.
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