Today we looked at one of the most explicit passages of Scripture that outlines God's standard for marriage: Ephesians 5:22-33. Wives often bear the brunt of that section, but the majority of the passage deals with the husband's attitude toward and responsibilities for his wife.
As I pointed out in class, marriage comes in one of three flavors: Yummy, Yucky, or Not So... (hot, good, wonderful, exciting, much like I thought it would be, etc.) Marriage can be the most amazing, wonderful, blessing on Earth, or it can seem like a hellacious prison sentence that relentlessly tears at your emotions.
In Ephesians 5:22-33, Paul outlines, for all those who are "in Christ", God's design for a successful marriage. It's a formula that, when mixed properly, results in the "yummiest" marriage possible. Is is a marriage filled with sustained happiness, love, peace, and purpose. Paul's formula is time-tested and comes with a guarantee from God Himself.
So "burn your boats" of spiritual apathy, neglect, selfishness, abandonment, and resentment. Make an unconditional surrender of all your life to God's loving care and control. Let His strength, wisdom, peace and purpose rule in your life. That is the first step to a "yummy" marriage.
Secondly, be the submissive, supportive, respectful, forgiving wife that God has asked you to be. Be the loving, caring, protective husband who accepts his God-given leadership role as your #1 priority. Pray together and pray for each other--a lot. Do these things so you can enjoy God's design for a blessed marriage. It's what He wants for you.
If you are not yet married, accept that God is sovereign and has a plan for your life. Focus on getting to know Him better and trusting His plan. Use your singleness to glorify Him in all you do. Don't compromise your morals or your faith. A marriage that is not ordained by God is a curse.
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