Faithfulness In Relationships

Thursday, June 20



Malachi 2:14-15 (NIV)
“You ask, “Why?” It is because the LORD is the witness between you and the wife of your youth. You have been unfaithful to her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant. Has not the one God made you? You belong to him in body and spirit. And what does the one God seek? Godly offspring. So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful to the wife of your youth.”
Devotion
Marriage is not merely a human agreement but a divine institution, a sacred covenant witnessed by God. The passage highlights that unfaithfulness in marriage, whether through physical infidelity or emotional neglect, breaks this sacred bond and causes profound harm not only to the individuals involved but also to their families and communities. 

One of the main reasons God created marriage is to bring forth godly offspring who will populate heaven. A faithful marriage sets the foundation for raising children who understand and experience God's love and faithfulness. The stability and security provided by faithful parents create a nurturing environment conducive to the spiritual growth and development of children, helping them to grow into godly individuals who honor God in their own lives and relationships.

From the lead verse, we see that the man will be held responsible for anything that happens in the marriage, whether it is his fault, the fault of the wife, or the children. The man should always remain vigilant, undertaking the God-given instruction of ruling and subduing the world, which includes his marriage (Genesis 1:28).
When the devil sees a marriage thriving, he often seeks to disrupt it. It's worth noting that some of the most significant conflicts aren't global wars like World War I, World War II, or the Cold War, but the wars within marriages. The devil knows that by attacking marriages, he can succeed in undermining family revival. 

Just as Christ loves the church (Ephesians 5:25), husbands are called to love their wives without giving up. Jesus instructs us to forgive (Matthew 18:21-22), emphasizing boundless forgiveness. Instead of seeking revenge or attempting to correct their wives in ways that cause pain or lead to domestic violence, men should spread love, pray for their wives, and encourage them. By doing so, they help make their wives perfect brides, mirroring what Jesus does for the church (Ephesians 5:25-27). There should be no violence from husband to wife; instead, husbands should be preaching, correcting in love, fasting, and praying for their family, and keeping all covenants.


Today’s Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the gift of marriage and the sacredness of the covenant it represents. Help us to be faithful and true in our relationships, honoring the commitments we have made. Guard our hearts against unfaithfulness and strengthen our resolve to live with integrity. May our marriages reflect Your love and faithfulness, creating an environment where godly offspring can thrive. Guide us in being vigilant and accountable in all our relationships. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Apply It Today

Reflect on your relationships, particularly your marriage if you are married. Are there areas where you have been unfaithful or neglectful, either emotionally or physically? Seek God's forgiveness and ask for His help in restoring faithfulness and integrity in your relationship. Commit to being vigilant and guarding your heart against unfaithfulness. Remember that your faithfulness not only honors your spouse but also honors God and sets a positive example for your children and community.

Resources

  • Watch the message, “The Rewards Of Faithfulness”, and be inspired to live a faithful life in every area of your life.
  • Read the following passages of scripture and be empowered by the word of God; Malachi 2:14-15, Ephesians 5:22-33, Matthew 18:21-22, Genesis 1:28