Holding On To God's Plan And Persevering In Marriage Series

As Christians, we believe that marriage is a sacred institution ordained by God. In Genesis 2:24, it is written, "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." However, we also know that marriage can be challenging, and there may be times when we feel like giving up on our spouse.

In this sermon, we will explore the biblical perspective on perseverance in marriage, and why it's essential to hold on to God's plan, even when the journey gets tough.

The Covenant of Marriage

Marriage is a covenant between a man, a woman, and God. In Malachi 2:14, it is written, "The Lord was witness between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless, though she is your companion and your wife by covenant." This covenant is a commitment to love, honor, and cherish one another, through the good times and the bad.

Persevering Through Trials

Marriage is not immune to trials and tribulations. In fact, the Bible warns us that we will face challenges in our relationships (1 Corinthians 7:28). However, it's how we respond to these challenges that matters. In James 1:2-4, it is written, "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

Persevering through trials in marriage requires faith, hope, and love. It requires us to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, to hope in His promises, and to love our spouse unconditionally.

The Power of Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a crucial aspect of perseverance in marriage. When we hurt or offend each other, it's essential to forgive and seek forgiveness. In Ephesians 4:32, it is written, "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Forgiveness doesn't mean that we forget or condone the hurt, but rather that we release the offense and choose to love and move forward.

The Reward of Perseverance

Persevering in marriage is not always easy, but it is rewarding. In Psalm 128:1-4, it is written, "Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in his ways! You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you. Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children shall be like olive shoots around your table." When we persevere in marriage, we experience the blessings of God, including a deeper love and commitment to each other.

Marriage is a beautiful and challenging institution ordained by God. When we face trials and tribulations in our relationships, it's essential to persevere, trusting in God's sovereignty and provision. Forgiveness, faith, hope, and love are crucial aspects of perseverance in marriage. As we hold on to God's plan, we experience the blessings of a deeper love and commitment to each other.