Originally published in the November 20, 2008 issue of The Evangel.
by David Kennington, FBC member and counselor
Christ said, "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate" (Matthew 19:5-6). Most couples marry with abundant thoughts and feelings of joy, peace, faith, and love. Despite that, current research indicates:
51% of all marriages in the United States end in divorce.
50% of divorces occur in the first seven years.
80% of divorced couples say their marriage failed because they grew apart, lost a sense of closeness, and did not feel loved and appreciated.
The birth of the first child is one of the major causes of marital dissatisfaction.
Finances, children, employment, in-laws, religion, communication, and trust are vital components of most marriages and are often the primary stressors that can lead to marital dissatisfaction.
It is painfully obvious and simply clear that most marriages are not good and not what God intended. Wait! Before you cancel your wedding plans or give up, here is the good news: If Christ is at the center of your marriage, great things can and will happen! Philippians 4:13 reads, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Also, for all the alarming research, other studies show that marriages built on deep friendship, mutual respect, and the sincere enjoyment of each other's company are likely to succeed, prosper and last till "death do us part." You can have a great marriage by putting Christ first, being faithful in prayer and staying close friends with your spouse.
