[191 words]
Read Matthew 19:4–8.
Leave father and mother. By going to a home of his own. By accepting the responsibility as head of his home. Like a New Testament congregation, a home is an autonomous institution.
Cleave to his wife. In true devotion. As a part of his very self. Through all the trials that may come to her. Though tempted by the allurements of business, of male associates, of associates of the other sex. Not as though she were faultless, remembering the common frailties of humanity, including his own.
Love her. How? As he would have her to love him (Matthew 7:12). “Just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her” (Ephesians 5:25–33).
Do not be bitter toward her (Colossians 3:19). Be not bitter in thought, in word, in deed. Because of misunderstandings. Because of her mistakes.
To live with her (Ecclesiastes 9:9). How? “Joyfully.” How long? “All the days of your vain life.” Divorce is of human origin—the Creator made no provision for it (Matthew 19:18). If the exhortations are heeded, no divorce will be desired.
John L. Cox