

Their presence helps relationships flow more smoothly through the ups and downs of life. Mutual respect, honor, and submission are also keenly present or absent in marital relationships ( 1 Cor. For example, He affirms the need for these principles between parents and children ( Ephesians 6:2), servants and masters ( 1 Timothy 6:1), citizens and governmental authorities ( 1 Peter 2:17), and church members and church leadership ( 1 Timothy 5:17). The importance of mutual respect, honor, and submission is one of those themes. Through the Word, God reveals a number of important principles about His design for relationships. Spouses should practice mutual respect, honor, and submission. These principles are illustrated in Ephesians 5:21-33, which provides some very important insights into God’s design for men and women. Likewise, husbands more naturally show love and affection toward their wives when the husbands feel esteemed and valued. For example, wives are able to submit to their husbands more easily when husbands love their wives with the self-sacrificing love that Christ exemplified on earth. Consideration must be given to both husbands and wives God designed these roles to complement one another, and one role is incomplete without the other. The Scripture contains general and specific teachings concerning both the roles of husbands and wives. These roles are designed to be complementary. God’s image is revealed in both the husband and the wife. Similarly, husbands and wives are equal in value, yet distinct in role. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are each equal in value, yet distinct in role. Each person of the Trinity is distinct, yet intimately connected with the other. God’s intent is for marriage to reflect the relationship and oneness of the Trinity (see how Jesus referred to His oneness with the Father in John 17:21-23). God designed an order to be followed in marriage and family ( 1 Corinthians 11:3). PRACTICAL APPLICATION Roles in marriage.Įach spouse is equal in value, yet distinct in role. Therefore, while submitting your will to God can be a difficult task, it also can provide you with great peace and comfort, even when your circumstances are uncertain ( Matt. His plans and purposes are for your good and the benefit of His kingdom. God is a loving, trustworthy heavenly Father who wants the best for His children. Prayer must be a vital part in making decisions.įervent prayer is a key for every individual and couple who are seeking to make decisions. You can have confidence He will help you through life as you humbly seek Him and walk “in the way of wisdom” ( Prov. In these cases, God has promised He will give you wisdom to work through these things. God has promised wisdom to those who ask.Īt certain times in life, you may not have specific scriptural guidance on making a specific decision. This can give you comfort in your marriage, knowing God’s Word is always trustworthy and the best source for counsel in decision making in marriage ( 2 Peter 1:3-4).
#Scriptures for making hard decisions how to
Through the living Word, God has provided sufficient teaching and guidance to understand the plan of salvation and to know how to live a holy life.


God’s Word provides us with a foundation we can trust. Getting another perspective can provide a different point of view, reveal blind spots, and help you learn from the experiences of others ( Prov. 3:23).Īs decisions are faced in marriage, it is often helpful to seek guidance from wise individuals. Your actions and decisions should be consistent with your love for the Lord rather than selfish ambition ( Col. Living out your roles in marriage, agreeing on and fulfilling responsibilities, and making decisions for your family should be a joint process characterized by mutual submission. Marriage is a joint effort that requires mutual submission. Couples must regularly consult the Bible for direction and guidance as it reveals God’s design for marriage and helps identify and correct unbiblical thinking ( 2 Tim. Society’s standards for marriage and for the roles and responsibilities of husbands and wives are ever-changing and often do not align with Scripture. Scripture provides us with direction for God’s design for marriage. He fully exemplified servant leadership, balancing headship of the body of believers and submission to God In thinking about your role in marriage, consider the example Jesus provided from His life on earth. Jesus Christ gave us the perfect example. SCRIPTURAL DIRECTION AND BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES The subject matter and Scriptures should serve as a starting point, but it is not meant to be exhaustive. Below are several areas to consider with your fiancé/spouse within the topic of Roles, Responsibilities, and Decision-Making in Marriage.
