Fortified Families: God's Blueprint for Oneness

Introduction
Hey everyone, I’m so glad you’re here for the next installment of our "Fortified Families" series! Last week, we dove into Genesis 1, exploring how God created the world and humankind in His image, the significance of our gender, and our mission to establish families. Today, we're going to dig deeper into what happens when we get married, the significance of our vows, and how to fight for what God has created.

The Foundation of Oneness in Marriage
Let's start with Genesis 2:24-25: "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed."
This passage beautifully illustrates the essence of oneness in marriage. When we get married, we’re not just two individuals anymore. We make a vow before God to become one. God sees us as one entity, united in purpose and mission.

Five Truths About Marriage
1. Listening: A Regular Opportunity for Oneness
Listening is crucial. James 1:19 tells us to be "quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to become angry." Listening means valuing the person speaking, understanding their perspective, and being humble enough to learn from them. In marriage, listening shows that we value and honor our spouse. It fosters a sense of being understood and cherished.
2. Honor: Showing Preference for One Another
Romans 12:10 says, "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor." Honor means appreciating how the other person thinks and feels, and valuing their preferences. Preferring one another in everyday decisions builds a stronger, more respectful relationship.
3. Intimacy: Trusting One Another
Genesis 2:25 describes Adam and Eve as being "both naked and were not ashamed." Intimacy in marriage involves trust and honesty. It’s about being emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and physically open with one another. Building trust is crucial for a fulfilling intimate relationship. Remember, the most important sex organ you bring into a marriage is your mind.
4. Prayer: Interceding for One Another
Jeremiah 33:3 promises, "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." Couples that pray together stay together. Praying for and with your spouse strengthens your bond and invites God's guidance into your relationship. Pray blessings over your spouse, pray for their growth, and pray for your relationship.
5. Forgiveness: Releasing One Another
Forgiveness is vital in marriage. Ephesians 4:32 encourages us to "be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Forgiveness means letting go of past hurts and not holding grudges. It’s about releasing your spouse and allowing grace to heal your relationship.

Conclusion
No marriage is perfect, but by applying these principles, you can grow and thrive together. Whether you're single, married, divorced, or widowed, these truths can help you build stronger, more fulfilling relationships.
If you're feeling convicted or wish you had done things differently, remember that God offers grace and redemption. Reflect on the cleansing power of Jesus' blood, invite Him into your singleness or marriage, and allow Him to guide you in starting afresh today.