Marriage between a man and woman was ordained by God Himself in the Garden of Eden. “And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.” Genesis 2:22
Reconciliation a Possiblity
Though marriage often starts out in a garden of hopes and promises, too often it ends in a graveyard of disillusionments and disappointments. But the Bible offers the hope of reconciliation for broken relationships. “And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation. To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:18, 19
Not only that, but the Bible has clear counsel on how to have and maintain a happy marriage. Here are Seven Tips from Scripture.
1. Put God first in your home. “Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it.” Psalm 127:1 “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:6
2. Hold each other in high esteem. “Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8 “Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honouring each other.” Romans 12: 10 (New Living Translation)
3. Never take your anger to bed. “Let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.” Ephesians 4: 26, 27 “Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32
4. Pray together. “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.” James 5:16
5. Guard against intruders. “Thou shalt not commit adultery.” Exodus 20:14 “Anyone who even looks at a woman with lust in his eye has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Matthew 5:28 (New Living Translation) There are countless ways to have an affair. Physical and emotional intimacy between a husband and wife must be strictly guarded against all intruders.
6. Look for the positive. “It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.” Proverbs 21:19 “And you husbands must love your wives and never treat them harshly.” Colossians 3:19 (New Living Translation
7. Speak softly. “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” Proverbs 15:1
For a more thorough list of scriptures on this topic, request the Bible study guide titled, “Has Holy Wedlock Become Unholy Deadlock?” at www.amazingfacts.org
