In today’s society, marriage is often seen as the ultimate goal of a romantic relationship. It is celebrated with grand ceremonies, showered with gifts, and documented in photos to be cherished for a lifetime. While marriage is a significant milestone and a profound commitment, as Christians, we are reminded that the purpose of our lives and even our marriages extend beyond the marital bond itself.

God’s Design for Marriage

From the beginning, God designed marriage to be a union that reflects His glory and fulfills His purposes. Genesis 2:24 says, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” This union is not merely for the companionship of the husband and wife but is a representation of Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:31-32).

The Higher Purpose: Glorifying God

The ultimate purpose of marriage, as with all aspects of a Christian’s life, is to glorify God. When two individuals come together in marriage, their union should be a living testimony of God’s love, grace, and faithfulness. By reflecting Christ’s love and sacrifice for the Church, a Christian marriage can point others towards God’s redemptive plan.

Serving Together in God’s Kingdom

A Christian marriage is a powerful platform for ministry. Together, a husband and wife can serve in ways that may not be possible individually. Whether it’s raising godly children, opening their home in hospitality, or engaging in mission work, the combined strengths and gifts of a married couple can further God’s kingdom on earth. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 emphasizes the strength and productivity of two people working together, highlighting that “two are better than one.”

Personal Growth and Sanctification

Marriage is also a tool for sanctification. As two flawed individuals come together, they are given countless opportunities to practice forgiveness, patience, humility, and love. Through these challenges, both partners grow in Christlikeness, fulfilling God’s higher purpose for their lives. James 1:2-4 encourages believers to consider trials as joy, for they produce perseverance and maturity.

Impact on the Community

A strong Christian marriage serves as a beacon of hope and stability within the community. In a world where relationships are often fleeting and self-centered, a marriage rooted in Christ’s love and commitment stands out. It becomes a source of counsel, encouragement, and inspiration to others, demonstrating that true love and fidelity are not only possible but thriving.

Keeping Focus on the Eternal

While the joys and challenges of marriage are significant, Christians are called to keep their focus on the eternal purpose. The relationship between a husband and wife should continually point to Christ and His greater plan for humanity. By keeping God at the center and striving to fulfill His purposes, a marriage can transcend the temporal and touch the divine, becoming a powerful testimony of God’s unwavering love and faithfulness.

In all things, including marriage, let us remember Colossians 3:17: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Our ultimate purpose is always higher than ourselves, higher than our relationships, and higher than our marriage—it is to glorify God and further His kingdom on earth.