What steps can couples take to align with 1 Corinthians 7:11's guidance? Built on a Covenant, Not a Contract • 1 Corinthians 7:11: “But if she does leave, let her remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife.” • Recognize marriage as a lifelong, God-ordained covenant (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:6). • View separation or divorce as a last resort, never a casual option. Guard the Relationship Daily • Cultivate “love that never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:4-8). • Prioritize regular, honest conversation—“speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). • Pray together; a shared prayer life invites God’s peace (Philippians 4:6-7). • Practice quick forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13). • Schedule time for one another to refresh emotional and physical intimacy (Proverbs 5:18-19). Responding When Conflict Arises • Keep conflicts private and respectful (Matthew 18:15). • Seek wise, biblical counsel early—pastor, elder, or seasoned believer (Proverbs 15:22). • Refuse to weaponize the word “divorce.” Resolve to work through the issue. If Separation Happens • Obey the call to remain unmarried or reconcile (1 Corinthians 7:11). • Use the time apart for personal repentance, prayer, and growth (Psalm 139:23-24). • Maintain respectful, non-hostile communication that aims at restoration. • Involve spiritual leadership for accountability and mediation (Galatians 6:1). Practical Supports From the Church • Engage in a small group or couples’ class for encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Invite older, godly couples to mentor you (Titus 2:3-5). • Serve together; shared ministry deepens unity (1 Peter 4:10). Living Out Mutual Submission and Love • Wives: respect and support your husband’s spiritual leadership (Ephesians 5:22-24). • Husbands: sacrificially love your wife “as Christ loved the church” (Ephesians 5:25). • Both: “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21). A Word to Husbands • “A husband must not divorce his wife” (1 Corinthians 7:11). Reject every temptation to abandon; lead in reconciliation. • Treat her with honor “so that your prayers will not be hindered” (1 Peter 3:7). A Word to Wives • If you have left, prayerfully pursue reconciliation or remain unmarried, trusting God’s timing. • Avoid relationships that would sever the chance of restoration (Hebrews 13:4). Hope Through the Gospel • Christ reconciled us to God; He can reconcile spouses to each other (2 Corinthians 5:18). • The Holy Spirit supplies the power to forgive, heal, and persevere (Romans 8:11). • No marriage is beyond God’s ability to restore when both hearts yield to Him (Jeremiah 32:27). |
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