CHERYL QUIGG
Many people grow up learning about Jesus with their minds. They may know Bible stories, go to church, and speak about faith. Yet knowing facts about Jesus is not the same as trusting Him. Faith is more than information. It is a gift from God leading to salvation. It results in a relationship with the One who gave His life for us.
Every person has done wrong. Whether it is lying, taking something that was not ours, or speaking harmful words, we have all broken God’s standard. Only Jesus lived a perfect life. The Bible teaches that the result of sin is death and separation from God. But God offers a gift that we do not earn. Through Jesus, there is forgiveness and eternal life.
Faith cannot rest in religion, a church, or a leader. It must be placed in the suffering and resurrection of Jesus. He said He is the only way to the Father. A person must turn from sin and trust the Saviour. Without that, even a faithful marriage on earth does not guarantee life with God in heaven. We are not saved by works.
The way a couple treats each other can show the message of Jesus to others. Marriage should reflect grace, not bitterness. If Christ has forgiven us so much, we should not hold anger against our spouse or others in the church. We are called the bride of Christ, loved and bought by His sacrifice. We are to show that same spirit of forgiveness.
Marriage can also help each partner grow closer to God. A husband should love his wife in a way that helps her walk with Christ, and a wife should support her husband in the same goal. Real spiritual leadership does not belong only to pastors. In the home, both husband and wife can help each other become stronger in faith. Talking about Scripture, praying for each other, and choosing God each day can bring spiritual health into the family.
Faith is not only a Sunday activity. It should fill every day. Work, sports, and hobbies can become more important than spiritual life if families are not careful. Children learn what matters most by watching their parents. If they only see Jesus mentioned once a week, they may think faith has little value. Following Jesus takes effort, but it is always worthwhile.
Bind us together
With cords that cannot be broken
Bind us together, Lord
Bind us together
Bind us together in Love
Marriage also serves as an example. When others look at a couple, they may see unity or conflict. They may see a love that gives or a love that demands. God’s design is for one man and one woman to share life together and remain faithful. Unity in marriage can help others believe that Jesus is real. Division can push them away.
A strong marriage does not mean life is easy. People do not stay together only when they feel happy. Commitment means staying faithful, just as Jesus never gave up on us. Marriage asks us to grow in holiness, not simply in comfort.
Every person must ask: does my life show the message of Jesus? Does my marriage help my spouse trust God more? Do I follow Jesus only on certain days or in every part of life? Some may be married but have never placed their trust in the Lord. Faith must be real and personal. Only those who belong to Him will share eternity with Him.
A marriage built on God’s purpose can bless many others.
We love, because He first loved us.
1 John 4:19
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