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Key Bible Verse: "I hate divorce!" says the Lord. … "So guard yourself; always remain loyal to your wife" (Malachi 2:16). Bonus Reading: Malachi 2:13-16

Our culture treats marriage as a contract—a civil agreement between two parties that can be broken if either feels its terms have been violated. Most people don't take divorce lightly, but many see it as a back door exit if their marriage doesn't "work out."

In contrast, Scripture teaches us that marriage is a lifelong union. God's relational power and presence mysteriously bring two people together and make them one. The bond between a man and a wife is a covenant, a binding promise both partners make to one another, with their Maker as a witness. This bedrock, upon which a lifelong relationship between a man and a woman can be built, requires much of both spouses. Yet it offers life, protection, and security as no mere legal contract can.

Our individualistic culture has profoundly shaped me. The covenant of marriage demands that I lay down my imbedded independence and self-sufficiency for the sake of another. God doesn't grant me permission to renege on my promise if disappointment or suffering in marriage seems overwhelming. The marriage covenant is a solemn oath before God to honor, esteem, and care for my wife—'til death do us part.

—Adam Holz in Discipleship Journal

My Response: How may cultural assumptions about marriage have eroded my allegiance to the biblical standard?

Thought to Apply: A covenant cannot be terminated. It can only be violated.—ROSS T. BENDER (seminary professor)

Adapted from Discipleship Journal (7-8/04) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, make my marriage a faithful illustration of Your eternal love for the church.

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