Pastor Robert Morris in his message, mentioned that marriage is a covenant, an agreement between God and the couple. Unlike a contract, when you come into a covenant, you give up your rights and pick up your responsibilities. In marriage, we are to love our spouse as Christ loves the church. Jesus loved us enough to die for us on the cross. He gave up everything for us. Philippians 2:7-8 says that he gave up all his privileges and humbled himself by dying a criminal’s death on the cross. He thought more of us than he did himself.

This is the attitude that he expects us to put in a marriage covenant. We should put our spouse’s needs before our own. Husbands are to love and cherish their wives as Christ does the church. Wives are to honor and respect their husbands. Show appreciation for one another. Thank your spouse for all they do for you and your children. They need to know that they are not taken for granted. 

In today’s world, it seems harder than ever to make time for others, but we must make time for our spouses. Do not ignore each other’s needs or concerns. Don’t let arguments tear you apart. Remember your marriage is a sacred and holy covenant created by God. It is not to be taken lightly or thrown away when you cannot get along. It represents God and the unity of the Trinity and the church. Let the world see that unity at work in your covenant marriage. They should want to know more about the God you serve because of what they see in your marriage. 

Never give up something so special for cheap thrills. Adore and shower compliments on each other as King Solomon did in the passages captured within the pages of Songs of Solomon. Make each other feel special and unique, for that is the way God sees you as well.

Dear Heavenly Father,

I come before You today in holy reverence for who You are. After reading this devotion, I confess that I sometimes have trouble seeing my spouse or others the way You see them and treating them as You treat me. Father, as I come to You in my time with You today, I ask that You please forgive me for making life about myself rather than You, my spouse, and/or others. Help me to become a person of integrity and follow Your example in my (current or future) marriage. I desire to grow in my covenant relationship with You first, which will help me grow into a strong covenant relationship with my spouse. Guide me to be the man/woman You have called me to be. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Take some time for yourself today to get alone with God. Seek His wisdom, strength, and fortitude to help you become the best for your spouse and children. Married or single, you can grow in this area now by putting God and His call upon you above all else.