The establishment and preservation of marriage is a manifestation of God’s grace, not of legalistic religious rules. The law of Moses implemented divorce in response to sinful behavior. Jesus reminds us in today’s theme scripture that “let no one separate” is God’s will and has been from the beginning.

 A husband and wife who demonstrate unity of purpose and mutual support under the Lordship of Jesus are a powerful spiritual unit. No wonder marriage faces human and spiritual attacks from without and within. 

Jesus died on the cross, was buried, and rose again to pay for our sins that sabotage the unity of marriage. In the beginning, Eve was created from a rib taken out of Adam’s side to be a suitable lifetime partner. One reason Jesus bled was for the healing of our fellowship, as exemplified when he bled from his side on the cross. Jesus’ blood made a way for the restoration of relationships, first with God, and then with each other (1 John 1:7-9). Jesus made a way for restoration to God’s original intent, and the grace of God strengthens us against sinful behavior so that unity within marriage can be maintained.

Married (to be prayed together):

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for sending Your Son for our salvation and for the healing of our fellowship. We thank You for placing us together and we appreciate the many positive qualities in each other. As a couple, we want to model our union after Your design for marriage. Please help each of us to consider You and our spouse in every decision, action, or attitude. May we be a godly example of a marriage covenant that may lead other couples to do the same. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Single:

Dear Heavenly Father,

I thank You for allowing me to learn about a godly marriage relationship before entering into a covenant with my future spouse. Grow me into becoming the type of spouse You desire for me to be once I enter into a marriage relationship if that is Your plan. May I be an example to those around me in waiting for Your perfect design, even if that means remaining single. Use me, Lord, for Your purpose in every area of my life. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Today, make a list of each other’s qualities that you love the most. Discuss these, going into detail about the times you have seen your spouse portray these qualities.

Make a list of the qualities God has placed within you that you feel He can use in growing His Kingdom. Determine to share those qualities with others by walking them out.