The following series is based on a book written by Jeremy and Sushma Ballard, “Is Your Home a Jesus Home?” The book is available for purchase on Amazon (Paperback & eBook), Barnes & Noble (Paperback & eBook), and Apple Books (eBook). Every purchase helps to support Jesus Home Ministries and the work Jeremy and Sushma are doing.
In our previous lesson, we discussed the importance of upholding righteousness, no matter the circumstances. Today, we’ll delve into what the Bible teaches about divorce and remarriage by first understanding the foundational roles within marriage.
Read 1 Corinthians 11:3
To cultivate a thriving marriage, it’s essential for both husband and wife to understand and embrace their God-given roles. According to Scripture, Christ is the head of the home, and within that structure, husbands are endowed with both authority and responsibility in the household.
However, in many marriages today, these roles can become blurred. Some men may shy away from leadership, while some women might feel compelled to take on that role. This often leads to power struggles, disrupting the harmony God intended for marriage. Just as in a dance, effective partnership requires a clear leader. If both partners vie for control, the dance becomes chaotic. If neither leads, there is no direction. In marriage, God has appointed the husband to lead, while the wife is called to support.
In contemporary society, there’s a growing trend of women stepping into roles traditionally held by men, sometimes out of necessity or cultural pressure. However, this goes against God’s original design. Imagine someone trying to walk on their hands—they may manage for a short distance, but it’s not sustainable because they weren’t created for that purpose. Similarly, husbands are ordained by God to lead their families, and wives are designed to be their partners in support. When these roles are reversed or neglected, it can lead to confusion and contribute to the high divorce rates we see today.
Another crucial element in maintaining a healthy marriage is prayer. It’s often said, “A couple who prays together, stays together.” Spiritual unity deepens the physical, mental, and emotional connection between spouses, fostering a stronger bond. Although husbands are called to lead in prayer and spiritual matters, if they falter, wives can play a vital role by gently encouraging them, rather than resorting to criticism.
Understanding and fulfilling these roles is key to preventing the breakdown of marriage and avoiding the path that could lead to divorce. When both husband and wife work together according to God’s design, their marriage stands a much stronger chance of enduring the trials that life may bring.
Join us next time as we explore the concept of the Five Love Languages and how they can strengthen your marriage.
Jesus Home Ministries 