A Gift From Heaven

Read Proverbs 19

Fathers can give their sons an inheritance of houses and wealth, but only the LORD can give an understanding wife.

Proverbs 19:14

Some wise guy has noted that marriage is the only institution on earth where everybody on the outside wants in, and everybody on the inside wants out! It’s a humorous quip with a kick. Why do so many put so much hope in marriage? Why do so many couples have such great struggle?

In Old Testament times, marriages were typically arranged by the parents. This provided for simplicity in courtship, but it did not guarantee marital happiness. According to today’s proverb, while passing along the family fortune may have been a somewhat “foolproof” transaction, good matchmaking necessitated the Lord’s help and favor.

The same principle is still true. We need God’s help to find the right mate. We need the grace of God to be a godly mate. If you’re happily married, thank the Lord. If your marriage needs help, call on the Lord. Any and all good in your life ultimately comes from him (James 1:17).

A WORD FOR TODAY

Marriage is always a work in progress.

Today, Lord, I want to make a conscious effort to remember that every good gift in my life is from you—that goes for marriage, too.