What does "obtains favor from the LORD" imply about God's view on marriage? The Verse in Focus “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD.” (Proverbs 18:22) What “Favor from the LORD” Conveys • God actively blesses the covenant of marriage; it is not merely a human arrangement. • “Favor” (Hebrew: rāṣōn) carries the idea of pleasure, goodwill, and gracious acceptance. • The verse links marital union to divine delight, revealing that marriage lies within God’s gracious purposes for humanity. Implications for God’s View of Marriage • Marriage is a “good thing,” a divinely designed good—echoing Genesis 2:18: “It is not good for the man to be alone.” • God looks upon a husband’s faithful pursuit and union with a wife as praiseworthy, rewarding it with His favor. • The permanence and sacredness of marriage reflect God’s own faithful character (cf. Malachi 2:14–16). How God’s Favor Shows Up • Spiritual growth: Husband and wife sharpen one another in godliness (Proverbs 27:17). • Mutual joy: Shared life multiplies blessing (Ecclesiastes 4:9–12). • Protection: Marriage provides a God‐given boundary against sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 7:2). • Witness: A Christ‐centered marriage pictures the gospel (Ephesians 5:31–32). Complementary Scriptural Voices • Proverbs 19:14 — “A prudent wife is from the LORD.” God personally provides and endorses the marital partner. • Matthew 19:4–6 — Jesus affirms, “What God has joined together, let no man separate,” underscoring divine initiative. • Hebrews 13:4 — “Marriage should be honored by all,” revealing its ongoing esteem in God’s sight. Takeaways for Husbands and Wives Today • Receive your spouse as a grace‐gift, not an accident. • Expect God’s help; His favor empowers couples to thrive amid challenges. • Honor marriage publicly and privately, aligning attitudes with God’s high regard. • Let your union reflect the steadfast love God shows to His people, becoming a living testimony of His favor. |
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