Unhealthy Marriages

 I can't imagine how many people there are in the world now who find themselves in an unhealthy marriage. It can happen for a variety of reasons. This was never God's intention. He wants every marriage to be a healthy, satisfying relationship, and He will always do His part to see that happen for anyone who wants to follow His design. I pray all of us will be sensitive to God in this, so that we can have the best marriages possible.

Jacob had a very unhealthy marriage because Laban tricked him into marrying Leah first and then Rachel. That was not God's design. (Genesis 29:30) Jacob had sexual relations with Rachel after their marriage, and he loved Rachel more than he loved Leah. Then, he had to serve with Laban seven more years as his dowry payment for Laban. Just think of how terrible this situation was for several reasons.

Marriage is only supposed to be between one man and one woman for life. They make a love commitment to each other, and they are to grow in that love by making it their primary relationship, besides their relationship with the Lord. That is God's design. No one should be married to more than one person at the same time. It would be natural for one to be loved more than the other, thus leaving one feeling very left out and inadequate.

Also, the husband and wife are to become one. They are to have the closest possible human relationship. This should be true emotionally, spiritually, and physically. They should never have sexual relations with anyone else. That very act is an expression of their committed love for each other, and a way to show their mutual commitment to meet each other's needs. When a husband and wife have this type of unity and love, they will be very happy and fulfilled.

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Tomorrow, I intend to read Genesis 30-32.