Marriage Priorities in the Bible: A Study of the Most Essential Values for a strong marriage

Introduction

Marriage is one of the most important institutions in society. It is the foundation of the family and helps to ensure the continuation of our species. As such, it is important to have a clear understanding of the priorities that a strong marriage should have.

The Bible is a great resource for understanding marriage priorities. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most essential values that are mentioned in Scripture. We will also explore how these values can help to build a strong and lasting marriage.

Introduction to Marriage Priorities

Marriage is a cherished institution in the Bible. It’s something that’s been around since the beginning of time, and it’s something that God takes seriously.

In this article, we’re going to take a look at the most essential values for a strong marriage as outlined in the Bible. We’ll explore how these values can help your marriage thrive, regardless of your current situation.

Understanding God’s Design for Marriage

God’s design for marriage is one of the essential values for a strong marriage. He has laid out His plan in the Bible, and it’s important to understand what that is if we want our marriages to be successful.

One of the most foundational truths about marriage is that it was created by God. He is the One who designed it, and it reflects His character and purposes. When we understand this, it helps us to value marriage more and to put greater importance on honoring Him in our marriages.

The Bible also teaches us about the importance of companionship and intimacy between a husband and wife. These are two of the most important aspects of a healthy marriage. We need to be committed to one another and to pursue intimacy in order to experience the fullness of what God has for us.

Love Your Spouse (1 Corinthians 13)

It’s easy to say “I love you,” but it’s another thing to put that love into action. That’s what the Bible is talking about when it says to love your spouse.

Some of the most important actions in this regard are listed in 1 Corinthians 13. This chapter talks about how love is patient, kind, not jealous or boastful, and not arrogant or rude. It also says love does not demand its own way, is not irritable or resentful, and keeps no record of wrongs.

In other words, love is selfless. It puts the needs of others before its own and seeks to do what is best for the relationship. If you can commit to these principles and put them into practice in your own marriage, you’re well on your way to a happy and healthy relationship.

The Importance of Forgiveness and Patience

Forgiveness and patience are essential values for a strong marriage, according to the Bible. We often stumble and make mistakes, both in our actions and our words. Forgiveness is the key that can unlock a marriage from the bondage of resentment, bitterness, and anger. It also helps us to remember that, as imperfect humans, we’re fallible. And when we make mistakes, which we will inevitably do, it’s important to be patient with one another.

Patience isn’t just about not being angry when things don’t go our way; it’s also about waiting through difficult times without losing hope. The Bible encourages us to find peace in all circumstances by trusting in God, who will eventually bring forth His perfect will and deliver us from any difficult situation or trial. By understanding and practicing true forgiveness and patience within a marriage, couples can build stronger relationships that are rooted in faith and trust.

Building Tenderness and Respect in a Marriage

The Bible is emphatic about the importance of respect in marriage. It says that “a wife of noble character is her husband’s crown” (Proverbs 12:4), and that a husband should “esteem his wife as he esteems himself” (Ephesians 5:29). Building tenderness and respect in a marriage requires couples to be intentional about creating an environment where these qualities can develop.

It starts with listening to each other and understanding that there are two sides to every story. Couples should focus on being kind and understanding in their interactions rather than focusing on who is correct or wrong. Speaking kindly, staying calm, and avoiding conflict can help create an atmosphere of understanding and respect for each other’s beliefs and wishes.

In addition, couples should spend time together by engaging in activities they can both enjoy. This creates unity, and connection and reminds you both why you chose each other in the first place! By taking the time to build tenderness and respect through intentional effort, marriages become stronger when they prioritize biblical values such as these.

Making Time for Prayers Together

Making time for prayers together is also essential for having a strong marriage. Praying as a couple helps you to stay connected and strengthen your bond because it invites the presence of God into your relationship. Praying together allows you to express your gratitude and needs, as well as to be heard by God and each other.

Including prayer in your daily life creates space for honesty, humility, and accountability. This encourages subjective intimacy—the kind of deep connection with one another that takes effort to cultivate and maintain.

It’s also helpful to read the Bible and attend church together. Doing so will help you emphasize the same spiritual values in your home, leading to a healthy marriage that’s guided by prayer, faith, patience, and hope.

Rejoicing Together in God’s Faithfulness

One of the most important marriage priorities that the Bible gives us is joyfully celebrating God’s faithfulness with one another. In Philippians 4:4-5, we’re reminded to “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men.”

The Bible consistently tells us that we can and should come together as a couple to give thanks and praise to God for His many blessings and mercies. Not only does this help bring you closer together, but it also serves as a reminder of how powerful our relationship with God is and how fortunate we are to have such a loving bond with Him.

As a couple, it’s important to remember why you chose each other in the first place—God’s faithfulness in your lives and your journey together. So take some time each day or week to thank and praise Him for what He has done for you—it will only strengthen your bond as a married couple.

Putting Others First: Selflessness in Marriage

The Bible has a lot to say about putting others first – because marriage isn’t just about ‘me’; it’s about ‘us.’ We are called to prioritize the needs of our spouse above our own. This means understanding that compromise is necessary in order to foster a healthy and long-lasting relationship.

Ephesians 5:21 tells us: “Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.” In this verse, we are encouraged to treat each other with respect, kindness, and a humble attitude as we navigate our differences and disagreements.

An example of this kind of selflessness in marriage is when one spouse puts aside their own wants and needs in order to accommodate the other’s request or suggestion. It’s understanding that both parties must make sacrifices and compromises in order for the relationship to survive and thrive, even if it means forfeiting something you really want or need. It’s a difficult concept, but it can really pay off in the long run if practiced frequently.

Conclusion

When it comes to marriage, the Bible outlines several essential values that will help to build a strong foundation. These values are humility, kindness, forgiveness, and respect. If both partners can commit to these values and nurture them, their marriage will be blessed.