Scripture Union Daily Guide 8th July 2021 Thursday Message
Topic: The Sanctity Of Marriage
Opening Prayer: As I read through this passage dear Lord, let your word bring transformation to my life.
Scripture: Matthew 19:1-12
Question(s) for Reflection
• What does the passage teach about God the Father, God the Son or God the Holy Spirit?
God’s original plan for marriage is the union of one man and one woman for life. The present perversions of marriage like polygamy, polyandry (one woman marrying more than one husband), same sex marriage, etc. are clearly against God’s word and have severe consequences for mankind. Marriage is a sacred institution in which husband and wife grow into one union and is meant to be “heaven on earth”. However, as a result of the fallen nature of man, no marriage is free from occasional conflicts. With both partners submissive to Christ and His word, all such conflicts can be resolved, and the relationship strengthened.
Notice the reason God allowed divorce (legal dissolution of marriage) under the Mosaic Law (v.8). God hates divorce (Malachi 2:16). We as God’s children must hate what God hates and respect the sacred institution of marriage. Divorcing one’s wife to marry another one amounts to committing adultery (v.9). But notice also the exception to this in v.9b. Even in such case of unfaithfulness by either partner, repentance and forgiveness should be thoroughly explored. Can celibacy still be allowed (vs.10-12)?
Practice/Word Application
• So what? In the choice of a life partner we must seek God’s clear direction to avoid a wrong and problematic union.
• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Closing Prayer
• Lord, I thank you for creating the marriage institution. Help me to follow your guidelines in my marriage to attract your maximum blessings. • Pray against sexual exploitation and religious intimidation in IDP/refugee camps; pray for the Christians among them to withstand such pressures; also ask for adequate provision and protection in these facilities.
Offer a prayer of faith in line with Deuteronomy 1:11;Deut. 32-34; Acts 7:44-60
Scripture Union Daily Guide 8th July 2021. Scripture Union is an international, inter-denominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God