Love God Greatly: For Such a Time as This - a Study on the Book of Estherਨਮੂਨਾ

Week 1: Relying on and Trusting God's Wisdom

Godly Marriage

Read: Esther 1:19-22, Ephesians 5:33

SOAP: Ephesians 5:33

““Nevertheless, each one of you must also love his own wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”

Into the Text

Marriage is a beautiful reflection of God’s love when both husband and wife seek to honor Him. In Ephesians 5:33, we’re reminded of the delicate balance in marriage. A husband is called to love his wife as Christ loves the church, and a wife is called to respect her husband. Both love and respect are essential for a thriving marriage. Just as a wife longs to feel loved, a husband desires to feel valued and respected.

But what happens when this balance is broken? In the story of King Ahasuerus and Queen Vashti, we see the consequences of love and respect missing from their relationship. The king’s request put Queen Vashti in a difficult position, asking her to do something she wasn’t comfortable with. Instead of protecting her, he unlovingly placed her in a situation that ultimately cost her the crown. This is not the way God intended marriage to be.

For those of us who are married, respecting our husbands is one way we show them love and appreciation. It’s how they feel cherished for the ways they lead and serve our families. But above all, we must first respect and honor God with our actions. When we choose to obey God, even when it’s hard, we trust that He sees us and will care for us, no matter the outcome.

Sweet sister, if you find yourself in a situation where standing up for what is right could come at a cost, be encouraged. God sees your heart and will always honor your obedience to Him.

Prayer

Dear Jesus, give me the courage to stand for what is right, even when it’s difficult. Help me honor you in my marriage and in all the areas of my life. I trust You to be my protector and provider in every situation. Amen.