Five Commitments for a Godly Marriage
Introduction:
Marriage is a sacred covenant designed by God. A strong, Christ-centered marriage requires commitment in several key areas. Today, we will explore five commitments that every couple must make to build a lasting and fulfilling marriage in accordance with God’s Word.
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I. Commitment to the Lord
“And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God.” (2 Corinthians 8:5)
When both spouses put God first, their love for each other will be strengthened by His grace and guidance.
II. Commitment to Priorities and Boundaries
Husbands must love their wives sacrificially (Ephesians 5:25; 1 Peter 3:7).
Wives must respect and submit to their husbands as the church submits to Christ (Ephesians 5:22-24, 33).
Neglecting marital obligations can lead to problems (1 Corinthians 7:2-5).
In-law interference can cause unnecessary conflicts and must be handled with wisdom and love.
A strong marriage is built when spouses intentionally prioritize each other and protect their union from external pressures.
III. Commitment to Resolving Conflicts
“Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil.” (Ephesians 4:26-27)
Unresolved anger and bitterness give the enemy a foothold in our hearts and homes. Instead, we must seek reconciliation and extend forgiveness.
IV. Commitment to Listening
“So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.” (James 1:19)
“He who answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and shame to him.” (Proverbs 18:13)
Applying the Golden Rule in marriage helps us communicate with grace and patience.
“Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” (Luke 6:37-38)
A listening heart fosters understanding, peace, and mutual respect in a marriage.
V. Commitment to Practicing Self-Control
Control Over Our Tongue
“Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.” (James 1:19)
Control Over Our Temper
“For the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” (James 1:19-20)
“Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32)
Control Over Our Thoughts
“But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” (Matthew 5:27-28)
“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)
Control Over Our Desires
“Now the body is not for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.” (1 Corinthians 6:13)
“Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’” (Hebrews 13:5)
Practicing self-control protects and strengthens the marriage bond.
Conclusion:
Marriage is a sacred commitment that requires devotion, love, and intentional effort. When we commit to the Lord, establish proper priorities, resolve conflicts with grace, listen with understanding, and practice self-control, our marriages will reflect the beauty of Christ’s love for the church.
May we all strive to honor God in our marriages by embracing these commitments. Amen.
