The Bible has been a source of moral guidance and spiritual sustenance for many believers for centuries. It holds within its verses the basis of our faith and the principles for life. Out of all the Bible verses, one of the most important ones is Psalm 133 which speaks of the sacredness of marriage. This psalm serves as a reminder of how important the union between a man and a woman truly is.
In Genesis 2:23-24, the Bible explicitly states that “a man shall leave his father and mother and cleave to his wife and they shall become one flesh.” This lays out the foundation for a strong, committed marriage between man and wife. It is further cemented by Jesus in his teachings when he said “What God has joined together, let no man separate” (Matthew 19:6). The emphasis here is on the unity of a marriage and the establishment of a household together.
Not only does the Bible speak of the importance of building a relationship together but also what roles a man and wife have to play within the marriage. In Ephesians 5:22-23, wives are told to respect their husbands and the husbands are tasked with the responsibility to cherish their wives. The idea here is that each should work together to build a respectful, loving relationship.
In Proverbs 18:22, it is written that “he who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord.” Here, marriage is seen as a blessing and a source of strength. In a sense, marriage is a beautiful demonstration of the power of love and loyalty and it should be treated as such.
Apart from the spiritual significance of marriage, the Bible also speaks of the physical aspect of it. In the book of Song of Solomon there are several verses that talk of the sexual relationship between man and wife. 1 Corinthians 7:2-5 puts it this way – “The husband should give to his wife her conjugal rights, and likewise the wife to her husband. For the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. Likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; but then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.”
The physical aspect of marriage can be understood in two ways – firstly, as an expression of intimacy and love and secondly, as an outlet for sexual energy. So, while sex is an important part of any relationship, it is only to be enjoyed responsibly within a marriage.
Companionship
The Bible speaks at length of the importance of companionship in marriage. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 says “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellows. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they are warm; but how can one be warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” This is not just about the physical aspect of a relationship, but also about the emotional bonds that are formed when two people come together in a journey of life.
A marriage should also be based on understanding and a genuine care and appreciation of each other’s needs. This can be seen in Colossians 3:19 which says “Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.” This speaks of the necessity of a husband to love and care for his wife, and to be understanding of her needs and feelings.
Trust and Commitment
Trust and commitment are essential for a healthy marriage. In Romans 12:9-10, it is written “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” It is important for a husband and wife to stay devoted to each other and be willing to forgive each other their mistakes. This helps promote a trusting relationship where both partners are willing to give and take, and accept each other for who they are. This can also be seen in Proverbs 19:14 which says “ House and wealth are inherited fromfathers, but a prudent wife is from the Lord.” Trust and commitment to each other are essential for a successful marriage.
Strength and Selflessness
The Bible speaks of the necessity of strength and selflessness in marriage. In Philippians 2:4, it is written “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” The idea here is that each partner should put the other before themselves and not just focus on their own needs and desires. This could mean sacrificing personal wants and needs in order to better take care of the spouse.
In 1 Peter 3:7, it is written “Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.” This is a reminder to husbands to be understanding of the needs of their wives, and to show them respect and love instead of treating them differently due to their gender.
It is also important for both partners to be strong in the face of adversity and be able to stand by each other in difficult times. 1 Corinthians 13:7 says “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” This verse is a reminder of the strength required to build and sustain a good marriage.
Put God First
One of the most important principles for a successful marriage is to put God first. This can be seen in Ephesians 5:22-23 which says “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior.” This means that both husband and wife should put God before all else, and be willing to submit to His will and guidance. This will help them stay connected to each other and the Lord and share a stronger bond.
It is also important to remember that both partners should work together to make their marriage strong and fulfill God’s will. In Ephesians 5:21 it is written “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” This is a reminder that a marriage should be based on mutual respect and understanding, and that wife and husband should work together to make their marriage successful.
Acts of Kindness and Love
Acts of love and kindness form an important part of marriage. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 it is written “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” Acts of love and kindness can go a long way in rejuvenating a marriage and helping two people bond on a deeper level.
In 1 John 3:18 it is written “Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” This is a reminder that love should be expressed in tangible ways. This can be done through acts of kindness such as taking care of household chores, words of affirmation, gifts or even simply spending quality time with each other.
Some Final Thoughts
From the above Bible verses, it is clear that marriage is meant to be a beautiful union between a man and woman who understand and appreciate each other. The Bible speaks of the importance of companionship, trust, commitment and strength, and also urges us to put God first in all matters. Finally, it is important to remember to express our love and affection through acts of kindness and sincerity.
