MARRIAGE THAT WORKS Part 1
FOR COUPLES WHO WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
“Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
A successful and blissful marriage doesn’t just happen. It requires hard work, tenacity, patience, and a commitment to the promises of God regarding marriage. We obey traffic signs, and similarly, marriage comes with its own set of laws. Though couples say “I do” at the altar, no marriage comes with a lifetime guarantee. However, we can always turn to God, the ultimate lifeline for all marriages.
As Christina Antus aptly puts it, “Marriage is a constant work in progress.” The saying “Anything in life worth having is worth working for” perfectly describes marriage. The reality of marriage, or any commitment, cannot be fully taught or anticipated— marriage is better caught than taught. You learn as you go, counting the lessons rather than your losses.
The Bible, however, offers much wisdom on marriage. It is the ultimate textbook on the subject. Marriage is God’s idea, and when done His way, it brings the greatest blessings. While we can teach certain aspects of marriage, the real learning comes through a lifetime of adventure and discovery together.
Everyone desires a lasting, fulfilling marriage. The most effective and satisfying way to achieve this is by consulting the One who created marriage in the first place. Understanding why God created marriage and the unique roles of both man and woman is essential. As Bishop Tony Osuobeni wisely states, “To love God and love each other extravagantly is exactly what we were made for!”
~ By Bishop Tony Osuobeni
