Love Brings Unity

(Since this chapter is on unity, we felt it would be most appropriate to write this one together)

The concept of unity in marriage is easily discussed but can be challenging to practice. The Bible commands husbands to “love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her..” (Ephesians 5:25) Paul writes that “husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies” and that “wives should submit to their husbands as the church submits to Christ” (Ephesians 5:28,24). And while we have all heard these passages many times, what does that actually mean in a practical sense in our marriages? What does it mean to become “one flesh” with our partner?

Ben and I have discussed many times over the years the struggles that we face individually that impede our unity as a couple. One struggle that we both share is with our sinful natures of selfishness. Ben and I were both the youngest children in our families and our closest siblings are seven years older than we are. Therefore, in many instances, it is as though we were only children. Needless to say, sometimes we don’t like to share! No, in all seriousness, it is difficult at times to truly submit to each others desires before our own. It is only through prayer and God’s grace to share His love that we are able to overcome our own selfish wants. It is powerful to recognize that we should love our spouse and sacrifice for them just as Jesus did for us. It is truly a joy to steward this awesome gift of marriage from God.

Marriage is a journey. Becoming “one flesh” with our partner is also a journey and not a destination. It is more than sharing your home, your finances, and your lives. It takes a continual commitment to learn about and to grow with your spouse. We are trying to continually nourish our relationship, and unity, through small groups, books, and quality time together. Hopefully in sharing what we are working on today in our marriage in regards to unity will help you. One small thing that always helps us is to revert to one specific verse: Proverbs 12:15 “The way of the fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man seeks advice.”

-Ben and Krystal Glover