The marriage institution – Part I

One of the often-discussed subject matters that influence our lives and is tied to people’s productivity in life endeavours apart from spirituality is the subject of relationships. We witness in today’s world how relationships and marriages can influence parties involved, either positively or negatively. When a man or woman finds himself/herself in troubled relationships, it usually influences the social, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being of such individual.

Marriage is the beginning of the family unit in a life-long commitment, which provides an opportunity to grow in selfless service. Marriage is more than just a physical union, but is equally a spiritual and emotional bond. This union mirrors the one between God and His Church. Culture can influence individual’s expectations concerning marriage and family. Individuals with different cultural backgrounds may encounter opposing values, which may pose significant obstacles in their relationships.

If you are married, you may have discovered why marriage is important and probably experienced some of the good, as well as the challenges that come with the institution. Likewise, you may have found marriage unbearable and no longer married. However, there is hope for everyone, when we look through marriage from God’s perspectives, as it can be more profound than what you thought. Marriage eliminates loneliness among couples, when they choose to work as a team enjoying the inherent benefits that can be derived from it.

• Beginning: Marriage is the beginning of human race. This union mirrors the relationship between God and His family, the Church.

• Oneness: Marriage is a stronger bond like no other. It gives a friend, life partner, teammate who shares their lives with each other. When a man and woman get married, the “two become one” through synergy with God.

• Purity: Marriage is designed for purity. We sometimes face temptation from everyday life experiences. The bond of marriage gives the support needed to defeat temptation by engaging in deep, satisfying and enduring love, which when given and received from spouses build a defence either physically, emotionally or spiritually.

• Parenting: When a marriage produces a child or receives a child through adoption, it is one of life’s greatest blessings. About 40 per cent of children raised today are in homes without a father figure. The Absentee Father syndrome causes increase in mental and behavioral disorders, as well as criminal tendencies and substance abuse in children. However, when children are raised in a healthy family, they get a front row seat to experience the lasting benefits of a strong family.

• Love: Marriage is designed to mirror our Creator’s unconditional love for us. It is a love that will always be there and will never leave or forsake us. When a man and woman love each other unconditionally, contentment and joy mark the beauty of the relationship.

Ayo Daniels is a healthy family passionate who writes from Lagos. We love to hear from you @ ayodaniels@mrlworld.com