Marriage can be a challenging journey, but the Bible offers guidance and hope for troubled unions. Dive into the scriptures that address the difficulties faced in marriage and provide wisdom for healing and restoration. From communication to forgiveness, these verses offer valuable lessons for those seeking to strengthen their marriage amidst adversity.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Reconciliation
Bible Verses About Troubled Marriage
Malachi 2:16
“For the Lord, the God of Israel, says that he hates divorce”
This verse emphasizes God’s disapproval of divorce. It highlights the importance of working through troubled marriages and seeking reconciliation instead of resorting to separation.
Matthew 19:6
“So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
This verse reinforces the sacredness of marriage and the unity that comes with it. It serves as a reminder that marriage is a divine union that should not be easily broken.
1 Corinthians 7:10-11
“To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife.”
These verses emphasize the importance of commitment and staying faithful to the marriage vows. They encourage spouses to strive for reconciliation and to avoid divorce if possible.
Ephesians 4:2-3
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
These verses remind couples to nurture qualities of humility, gentleness, patience, and love in their relationship. They stress the importance of making every effort to maintain peace and unity in the marriage.
Colossians 3:13-14
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
These verses highlight the crucial role of forgiveness and love in a troubled marriage. They encourage spouses to let go of grievances and practice forgiveness, just as God has forgiven them. Love is emphasized as the unifying force in the relationship.
1 Peter 3:7
“Husbands, in the same way, be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.”
This verse speaks specifically to husbands, reminding them to treat their wives with respect and consideration. It highlights the equal value and importance of both spouses in the marriage and emphasizes the impact this has on their spiritual lives.
Proverbs 14:1
“The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands, the foolish one tears hers down.”
This verse serves as a reminder of the power women have in building and maintaining a strong and harmonious home. It encourages wives to exercise wisdom and nurture their marriages instead of contributing to its destruction.
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
These words of wisdom highlight the importance of communication in a troubled marriage. They encourage spouses to respond with gentleness and kindness, as it can diffuse conflict and promote understanding.
Proverbs 16:24
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
This verse underscores the power of positive and uplifting words. It encourages spouses to speak kindly and lovingly to each other, as it can bring healing and restoration to the relationship.
Proverbs 17:9
“Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and discretion. It encourages spouses to protect and preserve their love by choosing not to dwell on past offenses or share them with others.
Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.”
This verse highlights the blessing of marriage and the favor that comes from God. It reminds husbands to value and appreciate their wives as precious gifts from the Lord.
Proverbs 19:14
“Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the Lord.”
These words acknowledge the significant role a wise and discerning wife plays in a marriage. It recognizes that such a wife is a gift from God, and her presence brings blessings to the relationship.
Proverbs 20:22
“Do not say, ‘I’ll pay you back for this wrong!’ Wait for the Lord, and he will avenge you.”
This verse encourages spouses not to seek revenge or hold grudges. It teaches patience and trust, believing that God will ultimately bring justice and resolution to any wrongdoings.
Proverbs 21:9
“Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.”
This verse highlights the negative impact of constant conflict and quarreling in a marriage. It encourages wives to strive for peace and harmony, recognizing the importance of a healthy and peaceful home environment.
Proverbs 21:19
“Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and nagging wife.”
This verse further emphasizes the detrimental effects of constant nagging and arguing in a marriage. It serves as a warning against such behavior, encouraging wives to cultivate a spirit of peace and encouragement instead.
Proverbs 27:15-16
“A quarrelsome wife is like the dripping of a leaky roof in a rainstorm; restraining her is like restraining the wind or grasping oil with the hand.”
These verses vividly describe the frustrations and difficulties that arise from a contentious spouse. They encourage wives to strive for peace and avoid unnecessary arguments, recognizing the futility of trying to control or change their behavior.
Proverbs 30:18-19
“There are three things that are too amazing for me, four that I do not understand: the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a snake on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a woman.”
This poetic verse acknowledges the mysterious and complex nature of the relationship between a man and a woman. It serves as a reminder of the unique dynamics and challenges that come with marriage.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
These words of Jesus highlight the value and importance of seeking peace in relationships. They encourage spouses to actively pursue reconciliation and to be agents of peace in their troubled marriages.
Matthew 5:23-24
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First, go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.”
This verse stresses the priority of reconciliation and forgiveness. It teaches that being in right relationship with others, including spouses, is a prerequisite for true worship and closeness with God.
Matthew 7:3-5
“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”
This powerful teaching of Jesus reminds spouses to examine their own faults before focusing on the faults of their partner. It encourages humility, self-reflection, and personal growth as necessary steps towards healing a troubled marriage.
Matthew 19:8-9
“Jesus replied, ‘Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning. I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.’
These verses provide clarity on the issue of divorce and remarriage. They reiterate that marriage was designed to be a lifelong commitment, with divorce only allowed in cases of sexual immorality.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
Known as the “Love Chapter,” these verses provide a comprehensive description of love. They serve as a guide for spouses in troubled marriages, reminding them of the selfless and unconditional nature of love that can bring healing, restoration, and strength to their relationship.
1 Corinthians 13:13
“And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
This verse emphasizes the enduring importance of faith, hope, and love. It reminds spouses that love is the cornerstone of a successful and harmonious marriage, standing above all other virtues.
1 Peter 4:8
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
This verse emphasizes the power of love in overcoming difficulties and differences in a marriage. It encourages spouses to love each other deeply, as it can bring healing and forgiveness to their troubled relationship.
What Does the Bible Say About Troubled Marriage?
In the Bible, there is guidance and wisdom provided for those who are experiencing a troubled marriage. While it’s important to note that the Bible does not specifically address every modern marital issue, it does offer principles and insights that can be applied to help navigate difficulties in marriage. As we seek guidance from the Scriptures, we can find comfort, direction, and hope in addressing the challenges that may arise in our marriages.
1. Commitment and Covenant
Marriage is considered a sacred covenant in the Bible. In various passages, such as Malachi 2:16, it is emphasized that God hates divorce. This reflects the importance of commitment and the enduring nature of the marriage covenant. When facing troubles, it’s essential for us to remember the commitment we made to our spouse and to God.
2. Love and Forgiveness
The Bible emphasizes the significance of love and forgiveness in marriage. Ephesians 4:32 encourages us to be “kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Practicing forgiveness and showing love, even in difficult times, can be a powerful way to heal and strengthen a troubled marriage.
3. Communication
Communication is a key aspect of resolving marital issues. Proverbs 15:1 advises us that “a gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Effective and respectful communication can help us understand each other’s feelings and perspectives, leading to better conflict resolution.
4. Seeking Counsel
When our marriage faces challenges that seem insurmountable, it’s wise to seek godly counsel. Proverbs 11:14 tells us, “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Seeking advice from a trusted pastor, counselor, or a mature Christian friend can provide valuable insights and support.
5. Prayer
Prayer is a powerful tool for seeking guidance, strength, and healing in a troubled marriage. Philippians 4:6 encourages us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Prayer can bring comfort and clarity during challenging times.
6. Self-Reflection and Change
Sometimes, we need to examine ourselves and our own actions in the context of marriage. Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 7:3-5 reminds us to remove the “log” from our own eye before attempting to remove the “speck” from our spouse’s eye. Self-awareness and a willingness to change can lead to personal growth and marital improvement.
7. Patience and Perseverance
Marriage is a journey that may involve ups and downs. Perseverance is essential. Galatians 6:9 encourages us not to grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up. During troubled times, holding onto hope and continuing to work on the marriage can lead to restoration and growth.
In conclusion, while the Bible does not offer a specific roadmap for every marital issue, it provides timeless principles that guide us in troubled times. These principles emphasize commitment, love, forgiveness, communication, seeking counsel, prayer, self-reflection, and perseverance. By applying these principles and seeking God’s guidance, we can navigate troubled marriages with faith and hope for restoration and healing.