The Power of Unity in Marriage.

The Power of Unity in Marriage: A Divine Design

Marriage is more than just a social institution; it's a spiritual journey designed by God to give us a glimpse of heaven on earth. When two people come together in matrimony, they have the potential to harness one of the most powerful forces in the universe, second only to God's power itself - the power of a united couple.

Imagine moving mountains, establishing God's counsel, and achieving more than you ever thought possible. This is the promise that awaits those who can achieve true unity in their marriage. But here's the catch - this unity isn't something that happens automatically. It's a spiritual battle, one that requires constant prayer and vigilance.

Prayer becomes the lifeblood of a thriving marriage. It's not just a nice addition to your relationship; it's an absolute necessity. Through prayer, couples can dispel the clouds of darkness that threaten to come between them, destroy evil projections, and weaken the opinions of others that might try to tear them apart.

The Bible tells us in Ephesians 5:21, "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." This mutual submission forms the foundation of a strong marriage. It's about choosing a partner you can respect, someone whose wisdom you value, and someone you're proud to be with. If you can't submit to your spouse's wisdom or if you're not proud of them, it's a red flag that shouldn't be ignored.

But submission goes beyond just mutual respect. For wives, the Bible instructs them to submit to their husbands as to the Lord (Ephesians 5:22). This isn't about being a doormat; it's about recognizing the God-ordained leadership structure within marriage. It's a high calling, one that requires cultivating a submissive spirit - something that doesn't come naturally to anyone.

For husbands, the bar is set equally high. They are called to love their wives as Christ loved the church, even to the point of giving up their lives for her (Ephesians 5:25). This sacrificial love is meant to nurture, cleanse, and sanctify the wife, preparing her to be presented as glorious and blameless.

But let's be real - achieving this level of unity and love in marriage isn't easy. It requires careful consideration before saying "I do." Here are some key points to ponder:

1. Don't marry someone you can't submit to or respect.
2. Avoid marrying the ungodly, the foolish, or the stingy.
3. Be wary of those in the church who may not be spiritually healthy.
4. Seek a partner who is more spiritually mature than you.
5. Test for commitment before jumping into marriage.

Remember, you can't give what you don't have. If you're seeking a godly spouse, you need to be pursuing godliness yourself. Surrender your life to Christ, subscribe to righteous living, and engage in the journey of building righteousness day by day.

For those already married, take heart. Even if you feel you've made mistakes, there's hope. However, be cautious about thinking divorce is an easy solution. Studies show it takes an average of five years for a divorcee to truly heal and move on. Instead of looking for a way out, look to God for healing and restoration within your marriage.

The beauty of a unified marriage extends beyond just the couple. It becomes a powerful testimony to the world, a reflection of Christ's love for the church. When husbands love their wives as their own bodies and wives respect and submit to their husbands, they create a harmonious union that can withstand the storms of life.

But this harmony doesn't happen by accident. It requires intentional effort, constant prayer, and a willingness to put your spouse's needs above your own. It means dying to self daily and choosing to love even when it's difficult.

As you reflect on these truths, ask yourself:

- Am I truly ready for the commitment of marriage?
- Have I surrendered my life fully to Christ?
- Am I willing to submit to my spouse (or future spouse) as unto the Lord?
- Can I love sacrificially, putting my spouse's needs before my own?
- Am I engaging in consistent prayer for my marriage or future marriage?

Remember, marriage is not just about finding the right person; it's about becoming the right person. It's a journey of growth, sanctification, and learning to love as Christ loves us.

Whether you're single, engaged, or already married, take these words to heart. Seek God's wisdom and guidance in your relationships. Cultivate a spirit of humility and submission. Learn to love sacrificially. And above all, keep your marriage anchored in prayer.

The power of a united couple is truly remarkable. When two become one in the fullest sense - physically, emotionally, and spiritually - they become a force to be reckoned with. They can change their world, impact generations, and bring a little bit of heaven to earth.

So, embrace the challenge. Pursue unity in your marriage with all your heart. And watch as God works miracles through your union, creating a testimony of His love and power for all to see.