Day 2: Created for Connection

MAIN SCRIPTURE: Genesis 2:24 (NIV) 24 That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.

DEVOTIONAL:

In the beginning, God saw that it wasn't good for man to be on his own, so He created Eve from Adam's rib. This meant that even though they were two different people, they were made from the same substance and were meant to be one. This idea of being "one" has both natural and spiritual meanings. Naturally, it refers to the physical connection between a man and a woman, leading to having children. Spiritually, it hints at the deep relationship that the church has with Christ in holiness.

The Bible stresses the importance of this connection, especially within a marriage centred around Christ. Ephesians 5:31 describes this connection as a man leaving his parents to join with his wife, becoming one. This connection is a divine plan, and any change from it, like sexual relations outside of marriage, is warned against in scriptures like 1 Corinthians 6:16.

Likewise, the relationship between Christ and the church is often shown as that of a bridegroom and his bride. Just as Christ loved, sanctified, and cleansed the church, husbands are called to love their wives in the same way. This connection with Christ is reflected in earthly marriages, where both partners must let go of their single life patterns to fully embrace the connection.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the sacred bond of marriage. Strengthen the love and unity in every union, making it a reflection of Christ's relationship with the church. May our marriages be a testament to Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.