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What Does the Bible Say About Marriage Problems? – Viral Believer
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What Does the Bible Say About Marriage Problems?

Introduction

Marriage is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman, established by God Himself. It is a beautiful union that brings joy, fulfillment, and companionship. However, no marriage is perfect, and couples are bound to face problems and challenges along the way.

From infidelity and communication breakdown to financial stress and conflict, marriage problems can put a strain on even the strongest of relationships.

Thankfully, the Bible offers guidance and wisdom on how to navigate the problems that arise in marriage. It provides us with biblical principles that, when applied, can help couples build and maintain a healthy and fulfilling marriage.

In this article, we will explore what the Bible says about marriage problems, the biblical principles for a healthy marriage, and common marriage problems and their biblical solutions. Whether you are facing marriage problems or simply want to strengthen your relationship, this article is for you.

As Christians, we know that marriage is a gift from God, and we are called to honor and cherish our spouses. The Bible offers us a blueprint for how to do so, and by following its principles, we can build a strong and lasting marriage that brings glory to God.

So let us dive into what the Bible says about marriage problems and discover how we can apply its teachings to our relationships.

marriage problems in the Bible

Biblical Principles for a Healthy Marriage

To have a healthy and fulfilling marriage, couples should follow the biblical principles listed below.

Love and Respect

Ephesians 5:33 states, “Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.” Love and respect are two essential ingredients in a successful marriage. Love is a sacrificial and selfless act, while respect is about valuing and honoring your spouse.

Communication

Communication is vital in any relationship, including marriage. Proverbs 18:13 says, “He who answers a matter before he hears it, It is folly and shame to him.” Couples should communicate openly and honestly with each other, actively listen, and seek to understand each other’s perspectives.

Trust

Trust is a fundamental aspect of a healthy marriage. Proverbs 31:11 states, “The heart of her husband safely trusts her; So, he will have no lack of gain.” Couples should be trustworthy and faithful to each other, keeping their promises and honoring their commitments.

Forgiveness

Marriage is not perfect, and couples will hurt each other from time to time. Colossians 3:13 states, “bearing with one another, and forgiving one another if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.”

Forgiveness is crucial in marriage as it allows couples to move forward and grow together.

Submission and Sacrifice

Ephesians 5:22-23 states, “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church.”

Submission is not about inferiority or subservience; it is about respecting and honoring the husband’s leadership. Likewise, husbands should love their wives sacrificially, just as Christ loved the church (Ephesians 5:25).

Sexual Intimacy

1 Corinthians 7:3-4 states, “Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise, the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does.”

Sexual intimacy is a vital part of a healthy marriage, and couples should honor each other’s needs and desires.

Common Marriage Problems and Biblical Solutions

Marriage problems are inevitable, but couples can overcome them by applying biblical solutions. Below are some common marriage problems and their biblical solutions.

Infidelity

Infidelity is a devastating problem that can lead to the breakdown of a marriage. Matthew 5:27-28 states, “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”

Couples can overcome infidelity by following these steps:

  1. Consequences of Infidelity: The offending partner must understand the gravity of their actions and the impact they have on their spouse and the marriage.
  2. Repentance and Forgiveness: The offending partner must repent and seek forgiveness from God and their spouse.
  3. Restoration and Rebuilding Trust: The offending partner must be willing to do whatever it takes to rebuild trust in the relationship, including being transparent and accountable.

Communication Breakdown

Communication breakdown is a common problem in marriage, but it can be overcome by following biblical principles. Proverbs 18:21 states, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.” Couples can overcome communication breakdown by following these steps:

  1. Importance of Communication in Marriage: Couples must recognize the importance of communication in a marriage and its impact on their relationship.
  2. Active Listening and Respectful Communication: Couples must learn to actively listen to each other and communicate respectfully, even when discussing difficult topics.
  3. Compromise and Finding Solutions: Couples must be willing to compromise and find solutions that work for both partners.

Financial Stress

Financial stress is a common problem that can put a strain on a marriage. Philippians 4:19 states, “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Couples can overcome financial stress by following these steps:

  1. Causes of Financial Stress: Couples must identify the root causes of their financial stress, such as overspending, debt, or lack of income.
  2. Biblical Stewardship and Managing Finances: Couples must manage their finances biblically by budgeting, saving, and giving generously.
  3. Contentment and Trust in God’s Provision: Couples must learn to be content with what they have and trust in God’s provision for their needs.

Conflict and Arguments

Conflict and arguments are inevitable in marriage, but couples can overcome them by following biblical principles. Proverbs 15:1 states, “A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.” Couples can overcome conflict and arguments by following these steps:

  1. Causes of Conflict: Couples must identify the root causes of their conflicts, such as unmet needs, unrealistic expectations, or differences in opinion.
  2. Conflict Resolution and Peacemaking: Couples must learn to resolve their conflicts biblically by seeking to understand each other’s perspective, speaking the truth in love, and working towards a peaceful resolution.
  3. Seeking Wise Counsel: Couples must seek wise counsel from trusted friends, family members, or a professional counselor when needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, marriage problems are an inevitable part of married life, but they do not have to be the end of a relationship.

By following the biblical principles for a healthy marriage and applying biblical solutions to common marriage problems, couples can overcome the challenges that arise in marriage and build a strong and lasting relationship.

As Christians, we believe that marriage is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman, established by God Himself. It is a beautiful and fulfilling union that brings joy, companionship, and intimacy.

Therefore, it is essential that we honor and cherish our spouses and seek to build a healthy and lasting relationship that glorifies God.

Let us remember that no marriage is perfect, and we are all imperfect beings. However, by seeking God’s guidance, following His principles, and applying His solutions, we can overcome marriage problems and build a strong and lasting relationship that brings glory to God.

Let us continue to pray for marriages facing problems and for God’s wisdom and guidance in our own relationships.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.