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June is definitely the month for weddings, and this past June I presided over two weddings and attended another one. Weddings are stressful, but exciting times. It’s very moving to witness the joining of the lives of a man and a woman in holy matrimony. It brings to mind thoughts of optimism and hope for the future. As far as my advice to newlyweds goes, I usually offer three “R’s” to a sound, successful, and spectacular marriage.
Romance. Love is a key element to keeping a marriage vibrant. It is because of love that a marriage should take place, and it is love that keeps the heart of a healthy marriage beating soundly (Song of Sol. 2:4-5; 4:1ff; 8:6-7; 1 Cor. 7:5).
Relationship. When a marriage takes place, the two become one flesh and they begin a holy, permanent relationship with one another, and with God (Matt. 19:4-6). A marriage will only survive when people are dedicated to one another exclusively and intensely (Eph. 5:25-28; Titus 2:4). A marriage will only flourish when the relationship in the marriage is one of sharing and caring (Heb. 13:16).
Responsibility. When two people are wed, a husband and a wife are created. Each have biblical responsibilities in their respective roles (1 Pet. 3:1-7; Col. 3:18-19). For a marriage to make it as God desires, each must take their spousal duties seriously and fully implement them as God has designed.
It would be good for all of us who are married to do an inventory check of these three “R’s” often to make sure we are doing our part in keeping our marriages active and alive. But there is another application to these: Christians are well aware that they are a part of the church, the bride of Christ (2 Cor. 11:2; Rev. 19:7; 21:2). As a bride to Christ, these should apply spiritually to us, also.
Romance. Christian, are you “in love” with Christ? Do you “keep falling in love with Him over and over and over and over again?” Does you love for Him grow stronger as time goes by (Mark 12:30; 1 Cor. 16:22; Eph. 6:24)?
Relationship. Christian, do you maintain the special relationship and communion you have with Christ? Do you regularly fellowship with Him? Do you deepen your relationship with Him through study and prayer (2 Pet. 3:18; 1 John 1:3)?
Responsibility. Christian, do you take your promise to remain faithful in Christ seriously? Do you perform your duties of love and service with joy? Do you honor Him in all you do (Rom. 12:2; Col. 3:17; 1 Pet. 1:7; Rev. 2:10)?
A great marriage upon the earth is a wonderful blessing. Let us do what we can to make them as good as they can be. But, as Christians we must also remember that we are spiritually wed to Christ, and that “marriage” needs to be the best that it can be, also.
Edd Sterchi
Broadway Church of Christ
Campbellsville, KY