Marriage with Purpose: Serving God Through Your Union

Unsplash [Photo from We are: The Chaffins]

After 20 years of marriage to my husband, Tayo (Ty), I have come to realize that marriage goes beyond companionship—it's a divine mission to mirror God's love and serve Him as a team. It is a ministry. When couples deliberately focus their relationship on faith, they form a union that not only fortifies their bond but also brings blessings to others. By emphasizing selflessness, spouses can enhance their connection while making a positive impact on their families, communities, and even the world.

Whether you're new to both marriage and the Christian faith, or you've been married for some time without seeing a divine purpose in your relationship, you might wonder how you and your spouse can serve God through your marriage. Based on my experiences and insights from other couples, here are some ways to accomplish this.

Ways to Serve God Through Marriage

• Putting God First – Placing God at the forefront of your marriage is vital, as this fundamental principle can greatly impact the relationship's health and longevity. A marriage centered on Christ goes beyond simply sharing a life; it emphasizes spiritual growth and devotion, forging a connection deeply anchored in faith. By making God the focal point of your union, couples can manage life's complexities with a shared purpose and direction that goes beyond personal desires. Matthew 6:33 reminds us: "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

• Loving Sacrificially –

  Spouses are called to love selflessly, mirroring Christ's love for the church. This involves understanding each other's needs, active listening, empathy, and nurturing the relationship through all circumstances. Husbands should engage with their wives by being present, showing appreciation, and fostering a valued environment. Ephesians 5:25 reminds us: "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her." This verse underscores the selfless, sacrificial love spouses should emulate.

  
  

• Serving Each Other-

  A thriving marriage is nurtured by mutual care and sacrifice, essential components that enhance its strength and longevity. In a successful marital relationship, couples recognize the importance of being actively engaged in each other's lives, realizing that their relationship is a collaborative journey requiring ongoing effort and dedication. This mutual commitment fosters a sense of unity and purpose, allowing both partners to grow together while also supporting their individual identities.

  
  

• Serving Others Together –

  A strong marriage serves as a foundation for ministry. The bond between the husband and the wife is not just a personal commitment; it serves as a powerful example of love, unity, and faith in action. When couples are grounded in their relationship, they are better equipped to extend their hands and hearts to others, reflecting the love of Christ in their interactions.

  
  

  Through practical acts like hospitality, mentoring, community service (volunteering), serving in the church or supporting mission work, couples can illuminate the lives of those around them. Colossians 3:17 advises: "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." One way my husband and I serve together is by being foster parents. We have taken on this responsibility for approximately 9 years, offering care and support to children in foster care. Our journey as foster parents demonstrates how a strong marital bond can enhance ministry efforts, allowing us to improve the lives of children in our community while also deepening our own relationship.

  
  

• Encouraging Each Other’s Faith – Supporting one another in prayer, worship, and spiritual growth strengthens the marriage and deepens the connection with the Lord. The wisdom found in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 highlights the importance of companionship and support in overcoming life's challenges. The verse states: "Two are better than one... If either of them falls down, one can help the other up." This biblical principle underscores the idea that having a partner to lean on during challenging times can make all the difference.

When couples embrace their marriage as a ministry, they cultivate a relationship that glorifies God and serves as an inspiration to others. This commitment to viewing their union through a spiritual lens enriches their lives, strengthens their bond, and allows them to impact their communities positively. By prioritizing faith, service, and love, they embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary, creating a powerful testament to the beauty and purpose of marriage.

I hope you were blessed by this post. Thank you for reading.

Yours in The Faith,

Margaret (MKO)