We need to know the place we are running to in order to get there.
But another point is of equal importance. The clearer our vision of where we are running, the easier it will be to reach the goal. By aiming clearly at our goal, we can more easily put aside different distractions that we will meet. Let us positively present the beauty of the intimate marriage in these next pages.
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When
God considers
something
as important,
I should
agree!
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We are not trying to imply that we all will or should end up happily married. No, not at all. There is a place for singleness.
However, the beauty of sexual purity rewards each person in or out of marriage. It is through a proper understanding of marriage that we understand the importance of sexual purity.
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If we can honor God's purpose in marriage, our esteem for sexual purity will be lifted up. God has prized the husband–wife relationship. We know this by three distinct acts of God.
Let's look at the three basic building blocks of marriage.
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1) When God made male and female, He said that the two are made in the image of God. Only having one sex did not give a complete enough picture of God. Both were essential.
"And God created man in His own image,
in the image of God He created him;
male and female He created them."
Genesis 1:27,
Response: Each partner is important. Anytime we despise our God-given gender, we should realize that we are angry with God for making us so. Our gender does have a significant impact on who we are and what we do no matter how much the society is trying to change this.
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2) God created man and woman separately; He formed each with distinct roles. The beauty of marriage will be found in the complementing of each other with their own gifts, calling and insights rather than competing for the same role.
"Then the LORD God formed man
of dust from the ground, and
breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and
man became a living being."
Genesis 2:7
"And the LORD God fashioned into a woman
the rib which He had taken from the man, and
brought her to the man." And
the man said, "This is now bone of my bones,
And flesh of my flesh;
She shall be called Woman,
Because she was taken out of Man."
Genesis 2:22-23
Response: Instead of trying to be someone we are not, let us focus on taking joy in the person that God has made us.
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3) God has ordained marriage as a unique and special arrangement.
"For this cause a man
shall leave his father and his mother, and
shall cleave to his wife; and
they shall become one flesh."
Genesis 2:24.
Response: The leaving and cleaving principle of marriage is the foundational organizing principle for mankind. There is a special relationship of intimacy in marriage. As much as we embrace the devotion and loyalty required in this relationship, we will see great love and blessing. The cleaving intends to unite the two at the essential body and heart levels.
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Summary
The institution of marriage is founded upon these three building blocks:
- Two different sexual natures,
- Two resulting roles, and
- The binding together of one of each sex to form a marriage.
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