January 13, 2010

Another on Marriage

Shivers. That’s what I get when I read Ephesians 5:25, “Husbands, go all out in your love for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church—a love marked by giving, not getting.” I can think of too many times when I’m preoccupied with my own self-interest instead of giving myself up for Tiffany.

I’m learning that marriage isn’t a business deal where you’re only required to keep your end of the deal if the other party keeps their end. Business deals are based on contracts, but marriage is based on a covenant. When two people get married, they enter into a covenant. That means that both commit to keep their promise regardless of whether the other keeps theirs. It doesn’t matter how you feel or what you’re emotions are telling you. Love is an action, not a warm giddy feeling.

The commitment of marriage is a beautiful picture of how God’s love for us doesn’t fluctuate when we are selfish and refuse to acknowledge him. He continues to offer His grace and love. Some reject His love and continue to live life on their own terms. Others however, come face to face with this unconditional love, and they are moved. Their hearts are melted. They are changed. They respond with love. That covenant dynamic is also the hope and purpose of your marriage relationship as well.