Building a Strong Foundation in Marriage
When it comes to marriage, many of us struggle to navigate the complexities of relationships, communication, and romance. But what if we’re missing the point? According to Paul David Tripp, popular author and pastor, a marriage needs something sturdier than romance – it needs a foundation built on the gospel.
The Sacred Institution of Marriage
Tripp emphasizes that the Bible presents marriage as the most sacred of human relationships, second only to our relationship with God. In fact, the Bible uses the word “covenant” to describe marriage, elevating it to a sacred and holy place. Moreover, marriage is positioned as a physical image of Christ’s relationship to the church, making it a vital aspect of our spiritual lives.
The Ultimate Purpose of Marriage
Tripp argues that the ultimate purpose of marriage is not temporal human happiness, but holiness. Marriage is a tool for growth, a way for God to work in us and refine us. This perspective shifts our focus from seeking happiness to seeking sanctification.
The Context of Marriage
Marriage is a flawed person living with a flawed person in a fallen world, but with a faithful God. There’s no such thing as an idyllic marriage, but there are two imperfect people who can experience wonderful things together, even in their imperfection.
From Law to Grace
Many marriages operate on a law-based system, where rules and punishments govern relationships. However, this approach leads to a cycle of failure and punishment, crushing intimacy and love. A grace-based marriage, on the other hand, deals with wrongs by seeking to understand what God is doing and how we can be part of it.
The Godward Direction
Ultimately, marriage is God’s creation, process, and work. It’s meant to be lived in a Godward way, with the first four words of the Bible – “In the beginning God” – serving as a reminder of our purpose.
Practical Application
So, how can we apply these principles to our marriages? Tripp suggests taking these five commitments – the sacred institution of marriage, the ultimate purpose of holiness, the context of imperfection, the shift from law to grace, and the Godward direction – and making them a daily reminder. Write them down, post them on your mirror, or include them in your devotions. By doing so, we can build a strong foundation in our marriages, one that honors God and brings joy to our relationships.
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