Marriage problems can seem insurmountable at times, but there are powerful words of advice in the Bible that can bring newfound hope for couples. The Bible speaks about spiritual truths about relationships and offers guidance for marriages in difficult times. Here is a look at what the Bible says about marriage problems.
The Bible tells us to be suspicious of power struggles in relationships, as it emphasizes mutual submission and respect. According to Ephesians 5:21, “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Submission should be a two-way street in a healthy Christian marriage.
Couples must guard against allowing their feelings and arguments to become personal attacks. Proverbs 15:1 reminds us, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” This is a biblical reminder that relationships can become strained quickly if couples don’t take care with their words.
The Bible also encourages couples to take care not to make promises that they can’t keep or do harm to their marriage. “Better is open rebuke than hidden love,” according to Proverbs 27:5. Sharing honest and authentic feelings with each other can prevent a great number of marriage problems.
When arguments and disagreements occur, the Bible says to step back and think before speaking. The Book of Proverbs advises, “Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly” (14:29). Therefore, couples must seek to carefully understand each other before simply reacting.
The Power of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is an essential part of a healthy marriage. Without it, grudges and bitterness can be detrimental to relationships. Matthew 6:15 states that if we don’t forgive others, we can’t expect God to forgive us. The Bible tells us to live in forgiveness and look for ways to reconcile with one another.
The Bible is full of stories of couples enduring difficult times and emerging triumphant. If a couple chooses to rely on God and make Him an essential part of their marriage, they can be assured that the truth in the Bible will bring the best out of any relationship.
Balancing Love and Discipline
The Bible speaks of how couples should show their love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 advises couples to demonstrate their love through patient endurance, kindness, truth and gentleness. This balance between love and discipline is pertinent in all aspects of married life, including relating to any children together.
It is important to be aware of the spiritual principles of parenting in order to raise considerate, respectful children. Ephesians 6:4 instructs parents to bring up their children in the training and admonition of the Lord. This means that not only should parents take the time to nurture their children emotionally, but they must also offer spiritual guidance in their lives.
Sacrifice & Dedication
The Bible speaks of a much-needed selflessness within marriage. In Matthew 19:5 and Mark 10:7-8, Jesus taught that a husband and wife should be as one, and that this oneness was only possible through self-sacrifice and dedication. This dedication to each other means that spouses should always seek out ways in which they can show love to one another.
It is not easy to make a marriage work, but according to the Bible, couples can make it through anything with God’s help. Taking the time to read the Bible, seek wise counsel and pray together can help married couples understand what God wants for their marriage.
Communication & Respect
Strong communication and respect within marriage is also essential to overcoming problems. According to James 1:19, couples must be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. This puts an emphasis on the importance of communicating in an effective, healthy manner. A great way for a couple to cultivate this respect is to take the time each day to listen and understand each other.
When difficulties arise, couples should practice 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 and respond to each other in love. This will create an atmosphere of respect, understanding and appreciation between the couple that can help to alleviate relationship problems.
Humility & Patience
Finally, the Bible offers advice on humility and patience within a marriage. Philippians 2:2-4 advises couples to look out not only for their own interests, but also to consider those of the other person. This requires patience and humility as couples handle and talk through their disagreements.
We all make mistakes, but the Bible says that couples should forgive one another quickly. As Proverbs 10:12 tells us, “Love covers all offenses.” When couples are able to admit their mistakes, forgive one another and move on, they are taking a huge step towards overcoming challenges in their marriage.
