The Vow That Lasts

 "Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate." 
Matthew 19:6b (NIV)

Want to know the secret to a lasting marriage? 

I heard about an engaged woman getting some marital advice. Her friend said, "The first ten years of marriage are the absolute hardest." She replied, "Really? How long have you been married?" The friend quickly responded, "Ten years!" 

The truth is that the hard work of marriage never ends. But you need to know why it’s worth it. 

In today’s verse, Jesus says, "Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate." (Matthew 19:6b, NIV) Marriage isn't what culture, nature, sex, law, or even love join together. It's what God joins together. When you take marriage vows, you're making a covenant before God Himself.

Years ago, I received an email from a woman I’ll never forget. Her husband had passed after forty years together. But it was forty years she almost threw away. Right after starting divorce proceedings, she got saved. A woman discipled her, showing her scriptures on marriage. She thought, "If I cannot keep a promise to God, I would not be able to keep it with anyone." She stopped the divorce. Her marriage still had ups and downs, but she remained faithful to her covenant.

When I’m asked to perform a wedding, I let the couple know I can’t do a wedding. I can do the ceremony, but only God brings two people together. God not only brings and binds you together, but He also builds your marriage together. You aren’t in this on your own.

If your marriage feels difficult this week, you’re not alone. After 49 years of marriage, I’ve learned that the hard and important work never ends. But I can also tell you it’s worth it. 

Get alone with God and ask Him to remind you why He brought you together. He’ll give you the strength to honor His covenant. Why don’t you consider asking your spouse this question: "How can I love you better today?"

Prayer: Father, thank You for joining my spouse and me together. When I feel stuck or discouraged, remind me this is Your covenant, not just ours. Give me the humility and grace to love like You. Teach me Your ways, Lord. I want the fruit of the Holy Spirit to be evident as I relate to my spouse. Help me grow in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. In Jesus’ powerful Name, Amen.