ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES IN MARRIAGE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Ephesians 5:22-28
Supporting Texts: Colossians 3:18-19, 1 Peter 3:1-7, Genesis 2:18, Proverbs 31:10-12
INTRODUCTION:
Marriage is a divine institution established by God, and He has assigned specific roles to both the husband and wife to ensure harmony and success. When each spouse understands and fulfils their God-given responsibilities, marriage becomes a source of joy, love, and divine blessing. However, when these roles are neglected or misinterpreted, conflicts arise. Today, we will explore the biblical roles and responsibilities of husbands and wives in marriage.
1. THE HUSBAND AS THE HEAD OF THE HOME
- a) The husband is called to lead with love (Ephesians 5:23)
- Just as Christ is the head of the Church, the husband is the head of the family.
- b) He must love his wife sacrificially (Ephesians 5:25)
- The love of a husband should be selfless, just as Christ loved the Church.
- c) He must provide for his family (1 Timothy 5:8)
- A husband must take responsibility for the well-being of his wife and children.
- d) He must live with understanding and honour his wife (1 Peter 3:7)
- A godly husband treats his wife with love, patience, and respect.
- e) Biblical Example: Abraham
- Abraham cared for Sarah and honoured God in his marriage (Genesis 12:10-20).
2. THE WIFE AS A HELPER AND SUPPORTER
- a) She is called to be a suitable helper (Genesis 2:18)
- God created the woman to assist and support her husband.
- b) She must submit to her husband’s leadership (Ephesians 5:22-24)
- Submission does not mean inferiority but a willingness to follow godly leadership.
- c) She must respect her husband (Ephesians 5:33)
- Respect is vital for a husband to feel valued in the marriage.
- d) She must build her home with wisdom (Proverbs 14:1)
- A wise woman nurtures her family and ensures a godly atmosphere at home.
- e) Biblical Example: Ruth
- Ruth demonstrated faithfulness, respect, and diligence in her marriage to Boaz (Ruth 3:10-11).
3. MUTUAL LOVE AND RESPONSIBILITY IN MARRIAGE
- a) Both husband and wife must submit to one another (Ephesians 5:21)
- Mutual submission ensures harmony and peace in marriage.
- b) They must love and care for each other (Colossians 3:19)
- Husbands must not be harsh, and wives must show love and kindness.
- c) Forgiveness and patience are required (Colossians 3:13)
- No marriage can thrive without forgiveness and grace.
- d) They must pray together (Matthew 18:19)
- A strong marriage is built on prayer and dependence on God.
- e) Biblical Example: Aquila and Priscilla
- This couple worked together in ministry and supported each other (Acts 18:24-26).
4. RAISING GODLY CHILDREN TOGETHER
- a) Parents must train their children in God’s ways (Proverbs 22:6)
- A couple must teach and guide their children in righteousness.
- b) Fathers must lead by example (Ephesians 6:4)
- A father’s leadership shapes the spiritual growth of the family.
- c) Mothers must nurture their children with love (Titus 2:4-5)
- A mother’s role is vital in shaping the character of her children.
- d) Discipline must be applied with love (Proverbs 29:17)
- Children must be corrected and guided in love, not harshness.
- e) Biblical Example: Hannah
- Hannah dedicated Samuel to the Lord and trained him in God’s ways (1 Samuel 1:27-28).
5. KEEPING MARRIAGE STRONG THROUGH GODLY PRINCIPLES
- a) Faithfulness is key to a lasting marriage (Hebrews 13:4)
- Marital faithfulness ensures trust and stability.
- b) Communication must be open and honest (James 1:19)
- A healthy marriage requires effective communication.
- c) Avoiding strife and division (Proverbs 17:14)
- Conflicts must be resolved quickly to maintain peace.
- d) Commitment to spiritual growth (Joshua 24:15)
- Couples must grow together in faith and commitment to God.
- e) Biblical Example: Mary and Joseph
- Despite challenges, they remained faithful to God’s plan (Matthew 1:18-25).
CONCLUSION:
A successful marriage is built on biblical principles. When a husband and wife understand and fulfil their God-given roles, their marriage will be filled with love, peace, and divine blessings. God designed marriage to reflect His love, and when we follow His instructions, we will experience His favour in our homes.
PRAYER POINTS:
- Lord, help me to fulfil my role in marriage according to Your will.
- Father, fill my marriage with love, peace, and understanding.
- Let my home be a reflection of Christ and the Church.
- Lord, give me the wisdom to lead or support my spouse effectively.
- Destroy every plan of the enemy against my marriage.
- Let the spirit of unity and harmony dwell in my home.
- Grant us the grace to raise godly children.
- Help us to build our marriage on Your Word.
- Every attack against my marital joy, be destroyed in Jesus’ name!
- Lord, let my marriage be a testimony of Your faithfulness.
PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
- Your marriage shall be built on love and godly principles!
- Every plan of the enemy against your home is cancelled!
- You shall experience peace, joy, and divine favour in your marriage!
- Your home shall be a testimony to many!
- Every broken area in your marriage shall be restored!
- God will give you the grace to fulfil your role in marriage!
- No weapon formed against your family shall prosper!
- Your marriage will stand strong against all storms!
- The love of God will increase between you and your spouse!
- Your home shall be a dwelling place of God’s presence!
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