Overseer of God’s Remnant Assembly Akintayo Emmanuel Shares Advice for a Blessed and Harmonious Marriage
About half of all marriages in the U.S. and many other countries around the world end in divorce. And even in some marriages that seemingly withstand the test of time are fraught with conflict, strife, suffering — and in some cases violence and abuse.
The bad news is that there is no secret formula, positive affirmation, or handy mobile app that guarantees wedded bliss for decades tying the knot. Yet the good news is that the word of God offers an abundance of inspiring and practical advice on how to experience a blessed and harmonious marriage.
According to the Overseer of God’s Remnant Assembly Akintayo Emmanuel, there are three Biblical passages in particular that all couples — regardless of whether they plan on getting married or have already done so — should keep in their hearts and minds every day: 1 Corinthians 13:4–7, Ephesians 5:33, and Galatians 5:13. He takes the time to briefly explain each passage and its significance.
1 Corinthians 13:4–7: “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
Commented Dr. Akintayo Emmanuel, who in addition his work with God’s Remnant Assembly also serves as President of G42-Global Reformers, The Bridge, and GRA Mission Squad: “Love is not something passive and inert. It is a dynamic and active force that is characterized by empathy, respect, care, and tolerance. Every day, we should ask ourselves if we are demonstrating love for our spouse in the ways that we think, feel and act. If not, then the problem is ours to address and solve — not our spouse or anyone else.”
Ephesians 5:33: “However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.”
“For a marriage to endure and elevate rather than undermine, it must be equal. Granted, spouses may have different roles. For example, one spouse may work out of the home to earn income, while the other is responsible for domestic responsibilities. Or, one spouse may be tasked with cleaning and the other with cooking. However, regardless of the configuration, both spouses must love and respect each other. They must be a team working towards the same goals.”
Galatians 5:13: “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
“In marriage, the question that spouses must ask and answer each day is how they are serving each other in all ways, including practically, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. When we authentically, meaningfully, and lovingly serve our spouse, we uplift them and serve the Lord. Naturally, our days are brighter and more beautiful as a consequence.”
