Fast Day 10: Marriages

By Dave Burgeson

Verses to Read: Ephesians 5:21-33 

Welcome to one of the most challenging passages in all of Scripture. When it comes to marriage, proper understanding and application of this beautiful passage is super important. As you meditate on this passage, ask the Holy Spirit for guidance in your role.

• The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the church in Ephesus while imprisoned in Rome. Ephesus was the most important city in Asia Minor (modern day Turkey). It was heavily influenced by both Greek and Roman culture. 

• It is in this context that Paul addresses Christian husbands and wives in their unique and beautiful roles within marriage. God’s model of marriage was radically different from their cultural view. It began a new pattern of covenant for all to see.

• Not much has changed over the millennia. Our world today does not value Christian marriage as is defined in the Bible. But we have an amazing opportunity to share Jesus today by how we love each other in our marriages. 

• “Submit to each other out of reverence for Christ” (Yield to Him as a couple) (vs.21)

• “Wives, submit to your own husbands as you do to the Lord” (respectfully)  (vs.22)

• “Husbands, love your wives as Christ did the church” (dying for her daily) (vs.25)

• When both husband & wife are loving in this fashion, it is a glorious testimony to the world around us. Be patient, extend much grace & mercy in the process.

Devotional Questions:

1. Wives, what is one new way you can respect your husband’s leadership?

2. Husbands, what one thing will you nail to the cross to love your wife sacrificially?

3. Husbands and wives, are you praying regularly for and over each other? How is your personal relationship with Jesus on the daily?  Do you “keep record of the wrongs” that your spouse commits? Confess any wrongdoing in these areas with your spouse and forgive as God has forgiven you.

Prayer Points:

• Jesus, as my Savior, may I totally submit every aspect of my life to you each day. 

• Holy Spirit, guide me to bless my spouse in new and creative ways that express how incredibly valuable they are to me, our family, and the world around us. Amen.