Contract Marriage Vs Covenant Marriage: Why Modern Marriages Are Failing
Covenant marriage may seem like an outdated concept to many people in today’s society. The idea of an unconditional, unilateral agreement that represents the relationship between God and humanity appears irrelevant and archaic to some. However, as we see the degradation of the value of marriage globally, it is essential to understand the significance of covenant marriage.
The exchange of values from the concept of marriage as a covenant to marriage as a contract is happening worldwide. The 50/50 contract type of agreement, where spouses only commit to their partner if their partner meets their expectations, has replaced the unconditional and unilateral nature of the covenant. This approach to marriage creates a lack of security in the relationship, where each partner is fighting for themselves instead of for their union.
“To combat this, already-married and soon-to-be-married couples need to 100% embrace covenant marriage. This concept involves putting the protective hedge of the covenant back around the marriage and family, with both partners 100% committed to an ongoing relationship where they fight for each other rather than for themselves.”
While the concept of covenant marriage may seem old-fashioned and irrelevant to modern culture, it is a foundational principle. It is similar to gravity, which may be old but is still an essential principle that cannot be ignored. There are consequences to breaking the covenant of marriage, just as there are consequences for ignoring the law of gravity.
From a faith perspective, marriage is a sacred institution ordained by God, and a covenant marriage is a way for couples to honour and fulfil their commitment to each other in a way that aligns with God’s plan for marriage. In a covenant marriage, the couple enters into a solemn and binding agreement before God to remain faithful to each other and to work through their challenges together, even when it’s difficult. This reflects the covenantal relationship God has with humanity, and it emphasises the importance of faith, commitment, and sacrificial love in a marriage.
In addition, a covenant marriage serves as a witness to others of the love and faithfulness of God.
“When couples commit to each other in a covenant marriage, they demonstrate to their family, friends, and community the power of love and the importance of keeping one’s promises. This can be a powerful testimony to others and a way to bring glory to God.”
Overall, a covenant marriage is essential to God because it reflects His covenantal relationship with humanity, honours the sacredness of marriage, and serves as a witness to others of God’s love and faithfulness.
Many individuals make choices for their own happiness without realising that they are releasing a seed of destruction and devastation into their children's lives. The generational consequences of divorce are severe and can have a long-lasting impact on a family. Covenant marriage is a protective hedge for generations, preventing the cycle of brokenness from perpetuating itself.
In conclusion, covenant marriage is a concept that may seem outdated to some, but it is more relevant than ever. The degradation of the value of marriage globally calls for a return to an unconditional, unilateral agreement between partners, where they commit to each other for the long haul. Covenant marriage may be the first step in creating a secure foundation for a lasting relationship, and it is a concept worth exploring for those looking to strengthen their marriage.
Bible Ref.:
“Therefore, what God has united and joined together, man must not separate [by divorce].”
Mark 10:9 (AMP)“For the LORD God of Israel says That He hates divorce, For it covers one’s garment with violence,” Says the LORD of hosts. “Therefore take heed to your spirit, That you do not deal treacherously.”
Malachi 2:16 (NKJV)“Marriage is honorable among all…”
Hebrews 13:4 (NKJV)“do not forget my law, But let your heart keep my commands; For length of days and long life And peace they will add to you.
Let not mercy and truth forsake you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart, And so find favor and high esteem In the sight of God and man.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.”
Proverbs 3:1–6
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