“Marriage is not merely a human institution but a reflection of God’s intention for companionship and unity.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – February 14, 2024
I will never leave you nor forsake you. Hebrews 13:5
In the sacred covenant of marriage, the concept of loyal love is deeply rooted in God’s Word. The Scriptures guide us to understand why, what, and how a spouse’s loyal love plays a pivotal role in the foundation of a strong and enduring marital relationship. First and foremost is the divine origin of marriage, declaring in Genesis 2:24, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” This union is not merely a human institution but a reflection of God’s intention for companionship and unity. Loyal love, as portrayed in the Bible, mirrors God’s steadfast and unwavering love for His people. Marital love reflects the Lord’s loyal love, so husband and wife can follow a divine blueprint for marriage.
The “why” of a spouse’s loyal love is anchored in the biblical understanding of sacrificial love. Ephesians 5:25 beautifully captures this essence, stating, “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” In the Christian worldview, loyalty in marriage involves a selfless and sacrificial commitment to the well-being and flourishing of one’s spouse. It mirrors the sacrificial love that Christ demonstrated on the cross, laying down His life for the Church. So, as husbands and wives, we seek to out-serve the other in selfless, loving deeds.
The “what” of loyal love in marriage encompasses fidelity, trust, and an unshakeable commitment. Proverbs 20:6 reflects on the rarity of true loyal love, stating, “Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find?” True, loyal love is a rarity. It encourages spouses to embody this quality through faithfulness in thoughts, words, and actions. It involves staying true to the vows made before God and one another, even in the face of challenges. Until death do us part, in sickness and in health are promises to persevere during severe suffering.
Now, let’s delve into the “how” of a spouse’s loyal love. Scripture offers practical guidance on cultivating and expressing loyal love within the marital bond. Colossians 3:19 instructs husbands to “love your wives and do not be harsh with them,” emphasizing the importance of gentleness and kindness in expressing love. For wives, Proverbs 31:12 highlights the significance of bringing good to their husbands and not harming them all the days of their lives. The fruit of loyal love is a gentle kindness that seeks out God’s very best for the other spouse. Communication is another crucial aspect of expressing loyal love in marriage. Ephesians 4:2-3 encourages believers to be “completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Open, honest, and compassionate communication fosters an environment where loyal love can flourish.
A spouse’s loyal love in marriage, viewed through a biblical lens, is a sacred commitment grounded in the divine purpose of unity and companionship. The “why” finds its roots in sacrificial love, the “what” encompasses fidelity and commitment, and the “how” involves embodying gentleness, kindness, and effective communication. As couples navigate the journey of marriage, embracing and living out the principles of loyal love outlined in the Scriptures can lead to a relationship that mirrors God’s profound and enduring love for His people.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I praise you for leading me to my spouse who loves you and who generously loves me through Christ’s love and in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Application
Ask your spouse what makes him or her feel loved. What does he or she need that only you can uniquely give?
Related Reading
Proverbs 18:22; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; 2 Corinthians 6:14; Hebrews 13:4
Worship Resource
Elevation Worship: Love Won’t Give Up
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