What Does The Bible Say About Finding A Wife?
The Bible contains a wealth of information about the pursuit of love and marriage. While there is no explicit commandment that says a man or a woman must find a spouse, there are several examples of people looking to find the right person to marry, and several passages that offer practical advice for a successful marriage.
The New Testament contains several references to marriage, including Jesus’s famous words that “they are no longer two, but one flesh” (Matthew 19:6). In this passage, Jesus emphasizes the importance of marriage, and the need to consider the welfare of both spouses before making a commitment. The apostle Paul writes several passages on the topic of marriage, including one in which he encourages younger widows to remarry (1 Corinthians 7:8-9).
In the Old Testament, there are several examples of people looking to find a spouse. For example, in Genesis 24, Abraham sends his servant to find a wife for his son Isaac. In this passage, the servant is given clear instructions about the type of woman he is to look for, emphasizing that the woman must be from the same faith as Isaac. In Song of Solomon, we see the beautiful story of two lovers finding each other and committing to a life-long relationship.
From this we can learn that it is both possible and desirable to find a wife who shares the same faith and values as you. According to David H. Jensen, author of “Marriage To A Godly Spouse”, it is important to look for a partner who shares your faith and values so that you can be better able to grapple with the issues that life throws you in the future.
When looking for a spouse, it is also important to look for someone who has similar interests and values. This will ensure that both partners are able to enjoy life together and provide mutual support where needed. Proverbs 31 talks about the qualities of a Proverbs 31 woman and encourages men to look for a wife with similar qualities, such as wisdom, justice and strength.
When it comes to choosing the right person for marriage, it is important to take time to get to know them and assess whether your values and interests are compatible. It is also important to look out for any potential obstacles that could prevent the relationship from succeeding. The Bible recommends taking the time to get to know each other, and getting insight from your family and friends.
How to Choose a Wife
Once you’ve found someone that you’ve connected with and someone who shares your values and interests, it’s time to think about how to choose a wife. In the Bible, we see several examples of husbands and wives making wise decisions before tying the knot. For example, when Jacob marries Rachel in Genesis 29, his father-in-law Laban sets up a period of apprenticeship, in which Jacob works for him before he can marry her. This allows both parties to fully evaluate their commitment to the marriage before proceeding.
Similarly today, couples should take the time to get to know each other before making a lifelong commitment. Some churches or religious organizations offer premarital counseling and other resources to help couples assess their readiness to enter into a successful marriage. In the Old Testament, it is also recommended that couples seek out wise counsel before marrying, further demonstrating the importance of taking the time to ensure that the relationship is right for both of them.
When making a decision about who to marry, it is also important to consider practical concerns such as finances and compatibility. In Proverbs 18:22, it states that “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” While this verse focuses on the spiritual benefits of finding a spouse, it is also important to consider the practical aspect, such as whether the couple’s finances will be able to sustain a marriage.
It is important to remember that marriage is a long term commitment, and it is important to choose a spouse who you know you can be happy with long-term, who shares your values and interests, and who has the same financial goals. Taking the time to prayerfully consider the person, their values and goals for the future, and their compatibility with yours, is the best way to ensure a fulfilling and successful life-long relationship.
Entering a Marriage With the Right Mindset
In addition to making a practical decision about who to marry, it is important to enter into marriage with the right mindset. The Bible is clear that marriage should be an equal partnership between a husband and wife. In Ephesians 5:22, it states, “For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ is the head of the church.” This verse emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and love in the relationship.
Furthermore, in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, we see the famous passage on love, which emphasizes the importance of faithfully loving one another through thick and thin. This passage emphasizes the importance of having a foundation of love, respect and faithfulness in the marriage.
These passages demonstrate that in order to have a successful marriage, couples should enter into the marriage with a commitment to love, respect and faithfulness to each other. It is also important to remember that marriage is not a power struggle, but a deep commitment to support each other.
Importance of Communication
Another important component of a successful marriage is communication. In the Bible, we see several examples of both couples and families engaging in healthy communication. For example, in Genesis 24, we see how Abraham’s servant speaks to Rebecca’s family about why he is there and whose son he is looking to marry. This demonstrates the importance of openly communicating one’s intentions and desires with family and potential spouses.
Also, throughout the Bible, we see many examples of couples and families sharing their challenges with each other. Proverbs 15:1 states, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” This passage reminds couples that in difficult moments, it is important to communicate in a gentle and understanding way, rather than creating more angst or anger.
Understanding the Married Life
Finally, it is important for couples to understand that life is not always easy, and that marriage is often a journey of learning and growth. The Bible is full of examples of couples who have been through difficult times in their marriage and who have persevered through their challenges. In 1 Peter 3:7, it states, “Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel.” This verse highlights the importance of understanding and patience when it comes to marriage.
When it comes to marriage, it is important to understand that it is not a static state, but a dynamic process that will involve challenges and growth. God’s instruction in the Bible serves as a guide to help couples through challenging moments, and to foster unity, understanding, and respect in a marriage.
The Role of Prayer and Faith in Marriage
Along with recognizing the challenges in marriage, couples should also remember the power of faith and prayer in their relationship. In 1 Samuel 1:11, we see an example of Hannah, who prays earnestly for a child, and is eventually blessed with a son. This passage is an example of God’s power to answer prayers and to provide guidance and hope in difficult moments.
Throughout the Bible, we also see many examples of couples turning to God in prayer for guidance and support in their marriage. Additionally, Ephesians 5:22 and Colossians 3:18 emphasize the importance of husbands and wives displaying love and respect for each other, in a manner that reflects God’s love for us.
The Blessing of Marriage
Although marriage can be a difficult and challenging journey, it is also a gift from God and a blessing to share. In Genesis 2:18-25, we see the beautiful account of the creation of marriage. In this passage, God states, “For this cause a man shall leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and they shall become one flesh.” We learn from this that marriage is a gift from God, a union of two individuals that brings them closer to God and to each other.
Through marriage, couples become one flesh and experience a greater sense of belonging, a connection that can only be found in the commitment of marriage. In addition to this, there are also the benefits of having a life-long partner to love and support them in every situation.
In the Bible, we see many examples of couples who chose to remain committed to their marriage despite difficult circumstances. By trusting in God, these couples were able to remain together and overcome their struggles. We also see throughout the Bible, God’s instruction on how to lovingly pursue a spouse, and make wise decisions when entering into a marriage.
By following God’s guidance, and taking time to pray and consider the right choice for a life-long partner, couples are able to find the right person to marry and embark on a beautiful journey of love and marriage.
