Marriage: A Life Time Covenant [Part 2]

Dear Reader,

Greetings in Jesus’ Precious Name! Our God is forever faithful. Praise to our Omnipotent God, the Maker of all things. The Word of God encourages us to ‘pursue after knowledge and search wisdom out’. As you continue to read and apply yourself to the demands of the Word of God, every plan of the enemy to frustrate your family life shall be annulled in Jesus’ Mighty Name!

I discussed the origin of marriage last week. Today, I will be looking at what I titled, Marriage Covenant Responsibilities.

The Word of God makes it clear that marriage is a covenant, and this is expounded in my book Marriage Covenant. What is a Covenant? The dictionary defines it as ‘a binding agreement; or a contract’ usually between two people.

The Word of God says: Marriage is Honourable … (Hebrews 13:4). It goes to say, therefore, that the agreement of marriage between two people, is seen as a good thing in the sight of God, which eventually leads to honour and dignity for the parties involved. I want to let you know therefore, that it is a good thing that you desire marriage, if you are not yet married. For those already married, it is a good step you have taken in life. You shall have no cause to regret it.

However, as good as marriage is, there are covenant responsibilities that must be operated, in order for it to produce the desired good. The Word says: If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land (Isaiah 1:19). There is good in marriage, but you must be willing and obedient to operate the covenant.

My husband, Bishop David Oyedepo will always say, “A life without responsibilities is a liability”. Furthermore, he says, “Responsibility is the price for greatness”. Do you desire good in your marriage? Are you longing for peace, harmony and serenity in your marital life? Then apply yourself to the demands of a good home. If you are yet to enact the covenant of marriage, begin to ask for grace to comply with the demands. If it is in your heart to obey God, it shall be easy for you to do so.

Greatness and fulfillment don’t come by magic, neither are they meant for a specific group of people, but for as many as would fear God and work righteousness. If people are having great testimonies concerning their family relationships, why not you? Greatness and fulfillment are meant for you, if you care to walk in the covenant.

What are these Covenant Responsibilities?

FOR THE MAN:

1. AS A HUSBAND
a. He is the head of the woman, the leader and not a dictator. He must lead spiritually, because God will hold him accountable (Genesis 3:9).
b. He must love his wife unconditionally as a brother, friend and as a lover sexually. (Ephesians 5:25-29).
c. He must honour his wife and not treat her as a lesser being, or a slave (1 Peter 3:7)
d. He must dwell with her according to knowledge. He must know her likes and dislikes. She is an individual too who has a mind of her own. Never compare her to your mother! It is foolishness to do so, God says. Women expect to be fulfilled in the following areas – Companionship, compassion, romance and passion. Never treat her as an old cargo. Renew your love for her on daily basis.

2. AS A FATHER
The man has the responsibility of raising his children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4; Deuteronomy 6:6-7), not by bullying and beating. Instead, apply the rod of the Word of God, and as you mould them in the fear of the Lord, you are raising godly children, who will in turn call you blessed.

3. AS A PROVIDER
A French proverb says, “A father is a banker provided by nature”. You are responsible for the needs of your home. Meeting the needs of the home is the primary responsibility of the man. The woman is only your help meet. Never shift your responsibility to your wife; it is anti-covenant to do so. To shy away from this responsibility makes you worse than an infidel – an unbeliever (1 Timothy 5:8). This shall not be your portion.

FOR THE WOMAN:

1. AS A WIFE
She has the power of influence, while her husband has the power of authority. She must be a positive influence. Her responsibility however, as far as God is concerned is that of submission.
a. She willingly allows herself to be ruled by her husband, obeying him in love (Ephesians 5:22-24).
b. She must reverence him (Ephesians 5:33).
c. She must cook to please him.
d. She must dress to please him (1 Peter 3:2).
e. She must love him (Titus 2:4; Proverbs 31:26).
f. She must learn to go to God in prayer, rather than arguing.

2. AS A MOTHER
She must train her children spiritually, and physically, bringing them up to become arrows in the hands of God. A mother’s role in the life of a child is a non-transferable responsibility. Mothers, don’t push your children to another person to train for you. Whatever means God gives you, use what you have to bring up your children. God will hold you accountable for failing in your role as a mother. Prepare your children for life ahead. It is your covenant responsibility.

3. AS A HOME MAKER
Seeing to the general welfare of the home, planning and managing resources provided are your covenant responsibilities (Titus 2:5). You are the homemaker, not house-help. You are to see to the welfare of every member of your household. This is your primary assignment before your career or business.

You need the grace of God to carry out your covenant responsibilities. You need to surrender your life to Christ so that, that grace can be given to you. You can say this prayer and receive that grace.

Dear Lord Jesus, I come to You today as a sinner. I believe You died for my sins and rose on the third day. Forgive me of my sins. I accept You as my Lord and Saviour. Make me a child of God today”.
Congratulations! You are now born-again! All-round rest and peace are guaranteed you, in Jesus’ Name. Call or write, and share your testimonies with me through contact@faithoyedepo.org, and conselling@faithoyedepo.org; OR 07026385437 and 08141320204.

For more insight, these books authored by me are available at the Dominion Bookstores in all Living Faith Churches and other leading Christian bookstores: