"Love Brings Unity" - Part 1

We now begin exploring an essential element of a healthy marriage that’s received little attention so far - oneness. We’ve talked extensively about how genuine love serves others, not ourselves. Marriage is a unique relationship where God’s plan goes even further; where two become one flesh (Genesis 2:24). And Jesus validates this by saying, “What God has joined together, let man not separate” (Mark 10:6-9).

Love Dare begins by looking at the Bible itself - 66 books written over a span of 1600 years by 40 different authors. Yet it beautifully interweaves God’s redemptive plan from beginning to end with one united voice. And to this day it continues to speak His never changing message with perfect relevance. Unity, togetherness, and oneness - the unshakable hallmarks of our God.

Love Dare next focuses on the nature of the Holy Trinity: God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit - united as one in perfect harmony. This is magnificently portrayed at Jesus’ baptism when the Spirit descends upon Him and the Father proclaims, “This is my beloved son, in whom I am well-pleased” (Matthew 3:17). The Father, Son and Spirit exist in pristine unity. They continually serve, love, and honor each other. Though perfect and unsurpassed, they rejoice when the other is praised. Though distinct, they are one, indivisible.

This relationship is so special that God has chosen to let us experience one aspect of it very personally. Paul talks about this mystery in Ephesians 5:25-33 by illustrating how God designed marriage to be a reflection of His love for the church. Paul also calls us to love our spouse who is as much a part of our body as we are. To serve our spouse whose needs cannot be separated from ours. To love them as a reflection of God’s love for us.

The biblical picture of unity is truly beautiful. But does this reflect your marriage? We were created and placed within the realm of spiritual warfare. Satan seeks to divide and isolate. Marriages never stand still; they are either moving towards oneness or isolation. What would your marriage look like if you were never again willing to see your oneness torn apart? Unity strengthens relationships and homes, while division destroys them. We must battle against the forces of evil that seek to destroy our marriage. But we cannot do this on our own. We need God, who stands ready to fight for us.

The unity of the Holy Trinity gives evidence to the power of oneness. This same spiritual reality is available to us as we go through everyday routines of our busy lives. Oneness needs to be a constant thread that runs through the daily experience of what we call “our marriage” and gives it a purpose to be defended for life.

Next week we will examine unity from a more practical perspective and see what it looks like in action. In preparation, I end with this Love Dare challenge. Isolate one area of division in your marriage. Pray for God to reveal anything in your heart that is threatening oneness. Ask for guidance to communicate and find ways to truly become one with your spouse.