We no longer live in a world where people get married “for better or worse” and “stay married “until death do they part.” In fact, America owns the dubious distinction of having one of the highest divorce rates in the world. But those statistics do not reveal the untold misery which exists in the lives of those whose homes have been shattered by broken commitment.
It is not just the husband and wife who suffer in the break-up of the home. Children suffer far more than we are willing to admit. The television and movie industry paints a distorted picture of children adjusting quickly and painlessly to the break-up of their home. But, divorce is very difficult for children at any age and the consequences are far-reaching.
But, those who follow God’s plan and boldly embrace the permanency of marriage provide anenduring foundation for their children. Jesus said, “a man shall leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and the two shall become one flesh.” Then, he added, “They are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate” (Matthew 19:5-6). Sadly, many have forgotten that marriage is a lifetime commitment.
“Change” is a frequently-used excuse many use to justify forsaking their wedding vows and moving on to a new relationship. People change. But commitment has no expiration date. Growing relationships involve change. “Marriage begins with commitment, is sustained by self-discipline, and is evaluated through growth” (Bell Hooks). We cannot grow without change. Our challenge is to grow closer to one another as we grow closer to God.
— Glen Elliott —