What steps can married couples take to strengthen their commitment as instructed here? The Command to Remain Together “To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband.” (1 Corinthians 7:10) Scripture speaks with absolute authority here: marriage is a lifelong covenant that must not be broken. This divine mandate calls every husband and wife to foster a resolute, enduring commitment. Cultivating a “No-Exit” Mindset • Embrace God’s design from Genesis 2:24—“the two shall become one flesh”—as an irreversible union. • Recall Jesus’ commentary in Matthew 19:6 and Mark 10:9: “What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate.” • Reject divorce as an option; view challenges as reasons to seek God’s help, not grounds to abandon the covenant. • Speak vows often—verbally remind one another, “I am with you for life.” • Celebrate anniversaries and milestones as testimonies of God’s faithfulness. Pursuing Oneness Daily • Schedule regular, unrushed time together—dinner at the table, evening walks, weekly date nights. • Share Scripture: read a short passage aloud each day (try Ephesians 5:25-33 or 1 Peter 3:1-7) and discuss its application. • Pray together and for each other; invite Christ’s presence into every concern. • Cultivate affectionate touch—hugs, hand-holding, and marital intimacy (1 Corinthians 7:3-5). • Speak edifying words; avoid sarcasm and contempt (Proverbs 18:21). Guarding the Covenant in Practical Ways • Establish mutual accountability: allow no secret passwords, no hidden finances, no private friendships of the opposite sex. • Forgive quickly and fully (Colossians 3:13-14); refuse to keep score. • Seek wise, biblically grounded counsel at the first sign of persistent conflict (Proverbs 11:14). • Serve together in church or community; shared mission deepens unity (Philippians 2:2). • Protect the marriage bed—maintain purity in thought and media choices (Hebrews 13:4, Job 31:1). Drawing Strength from Grace • Remember that marital love is empowered by Christ’s love for the church (Ephesians 5:25). • Depend on the Holy Spirit daily, trusting Him to produce patience, kindness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). • View trials as sanctifying tools God uses to refine both spouses (James 1:2-4; Romans 5:3-5). • Rehearse the gospel: forgiven people extend forgiveness. When Sin or Separation Threatens • Confess and repent swiftly (1 John 1:9). • If one has left, pursue reconciliation with humility and perseverance (1 Corinthians 7:11). • In cases of grievous sin, involve church leadership for discipline and restoration (Matthew 18:15-17; Galatians 6:1). • Believe God can redeem what seems irreparable—His power raised Christ from the dead and can resurrect a broken marriage (Ephesians 1:19-20). Living out these steps honors the Lord’s clear command in 1 Corinthians 7:10 and keeps husband and wife faithful “until death do us part.” |
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