Marriage, as designed by God, is a sacred union that transcends mere companionship. It is a profound covenant that calls for selflessness, genuine love, and an unwavering commitment to honor each other and the Lord. Understanding this divine design can transform our relationships, making them a reflection of God’s love and grace.

Putting the Other’s Needs Before Our Own

At the heart of God’s design for marriage is the call to put the needs of our spouse before our own. This is not a mere suggestion but a fundamental principle that requires us to act with genuine and unconditional love. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, urges us to “do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3). This scripture captures the essence of marital love—valuing our spouse’s needs and well-being above our own.

In practical terms, this means being attentive, patient, and understanding. It means listening with empathy, offering support without expecting anything in return, and making sacrifices that prioritize our spouse’s happiness and growth. When we consistently put our partner’s needs first, we create a nurturing environment where love can flourish.

Honoring the Lord in Our Efforts and Choices

Marriage is not just about the relationship between two people; it is also about our relationship with God. To honor the Lord in our marriage, we must align our efforts and choices with His teachings and commandments. This involves daily acts of love, kindness, and faithfulness that reflect God’s love for us.

Jesus taught us to love one another as He has loved us (John 13:34). This commandment serves as a guide for marital relationships, reminding us that our love should be selfless, forgiving, and enduring. By making choices that honor God, such as seeking His guidance through prayer, studying His word together, and attending worship services as a couple, we strengthen our spiritual bond and fortify our marriage against challenges.

The Power of Daily Intentional Choices

Building a marriage that reflects God’s design requires daily intentional choices. These choices, though they may seem small, have a significant impact on the health and longevity of our relationship. Choosing to communicate openly and honestly, to forgive readily, to show affection, and to express gratitude are all ways we can demonstrate our love on a daily basis.

Intentional choices also involve setting aside quality time for each other, nurturing the emotional and physical aspects of our relationship, and being mindful of the words we use. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that “the tongue has the power of life and death.” Our words can either build up or tear down, so it is crucial to speak life and positivity into our marriage.

Reflecting God’s Love Through Our Choices

Ultimately, the choices we make in our marriage reflect our love for our spouse and our commitment to God’s design. When we choose to love unconditionally, to put our spouse’s needs first, and to honor God in our actions, we create a marriage that mirrors the love Christ has for the church.

God’s design for marriage is a beautiful blueprint that, when followed, leads to a fulfilling and blessed union. It challenges us to rise above our selfish tendencies and to love in a way that is selfless, intentional, and honoring to the Lord. By embracing this divine design, we can experience the fullness of God’s love and grace in our marriage, becoming a testament to His glory.

In every choice we make, let us strive to reflect the love that God has so generously bestowed upon us, creating a marriage that is a true reflection of His design.