Marriage is a sacred union, but it can face challenges. In this blog post, we’ll explore Bible verses that address common issues and provide guidance for couples navigating marriage problems.
Whether you’re seeking wisdom for a troubled relationship or simply looking to strengthen your marriage, these verses offer valuable insights and hope.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Mothers Love
Bible Verses About Marriage Problems
Ephesians 5:22-33
“Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— for we are members of his body. ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.’ This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”
This passage speaks to the roles and responsibilities within a marriage. It emphasizes the importance of submission and love. Wives are called to submit to their husbands as they do to the Lord, while husbands are instructed to love their wives sacrificially, just as Christ loved the church.
This verse reminds us that marriage is a partnership where both spouses have unique roles and responsibilities. Wives are encouraged to respect and support their husbands, while husbands are called to love and care for their wives selflessly. By following these principles, couples can build a strong and fulfilling marriage.
1 Corinthians 7:3-5
“The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife. Do not deprive each other except perhaps by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.”
This verse speaks to the importance of sexual intimacy within marriage. It emphasizes the mutual responsibility of both spouses to meet each other’s needs. It highlights the idea of selflessness and recognizing that our bodies belong to our spouses.
By prioritizing intimacy and not depriving each other, couples can strengthen their bond and protect their marriage from temptation. This verse encourages open communication and mutual consent, reminding couples of the importance of maintaining a healthy and fulfilling sexual relationship.
Matthew 19:4-6
“Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
This verse highlights the sacred nature of marriage and the divine intention for a husband and wife to become one. It reminds us that marriage is a union that is designed and blessed by God.
By acknowledging the divine purpose and commitment of marriage, couples can find strength and motivation to overcome challenges. This verse encourages couples to prioritize their marriage and work towards unity, understanding that God’s plan is for them to stay together and not be separated.
Proverbs 12:4
“A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.”
This verse speaks to the influence a wife can have on her husband. It underscores the importance of a wife possessing noble character and the impact it can have on her husband’s life and well-being.
A wife’s character, integrity, and behavior can either uplift and support her husband or bring him down. This verse reminds us of the power of a wife’s influence and encourages women to strive for noble character, being a source of strength and blessing to their husbands.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
This verse emphasizes the strength and support found in a marriage. It highlights the importance of teamwork, companionship, and mutual assistance.
Marriage provides a partnership where two individuals can rely on each other for help, comfort, and protection. This verse encourages couples to support and uplift one another, recognizing that together they are stronger and more resilient, just as a cord of three strands is not easily broken.
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 to husbands, urging them to be considerate, respectful, and understanding towards their wives. It highlights the importance of treating their wives as equal partners and recognizing the value they bring to the marriage.
When husbands show love and respect to their wives, it cultivates an environment of trust and harmony in the marriage. This verse also reminds husbands that their treatment of their wives can impact their relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of treating their wives well for the sake of their spiritual life.
Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD.”
This verse celebrates the blessing and favor that comes with finding a good wife. It recognizes the value of a loving and supportive partner, emphasizing the positive impact a wife can have on her husband’s life.
Finding a wife is not just a random event but a divine gift. This verse reminds husbands to appreciate and cherish their wives, recognizing them as sources of favor and blessings from the Lord.
Colossians 3:18-19
“Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.”
This verse addresses both wives and husbands, highlighting the importance of submission and love within a marriage.
Wives are called to submit to their husbands, recognizing their leadership role in the family. Husbands, on the other hand, are instructed to love their wives and avoid being harsh towards them.
This verse encourages mutual respect and understanding, reminding couples to treat each other with kindness and grace. By practicing submission and love, couples can foster a healthy and balanced relationship.
Genesis 2:24
“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”
This verse speaks to the unity and oneness of marriage. It emphasizes that when a man and woman come together in marriage, they become one entity.
Marriage is not just a legal contract but a union of two individuals joining their lives, dreams, and destinies. This verse highlights the significance of this union and reminds couples to prioritize their bond and relationship.
Proverbs 19:14
“Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the LORD.”
This verse draws attention to the value of a wise and discerning wife. It suggests that a prudent wife is a gift from God.
A wife who possesses wisdom, understanding, and practical discernment can bring great blessings to her husband and the marriage. This verse encourages husbands to appreciate and recognize the wisdom that their wives bring to the relationship.
Proverbs 31:10-12
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.”
This verse extols the virtues of a wife of noble character, highlighting her worth and value. It suggests that a wife who possesses noble character is highly esteemed and brings immense blessings to her husband.
A noble wife is trustworthy, diligent, and supportive. She adds value to her husband’s life and consistently works towards his well-being. This verse encourages husbands to cherish and appreciate such a wife and reinforces the importance of character and integrity in a marriage.
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.”
This well-known passage is commonly referred to as the “Love Chapter.” It provides a beautiful description of what love should look like within a marriage.
Love is not merely a feeling but a way of actively treating one another with patience, kindness, and respect. This passage encourages couples to put aside pride, selfishness, and anger in order to cultivate a love that is unselfish, forgiving, and enduring.
By practicing the qualities described in this verse, couples can overcome challenges, strengthen their bond, and experience the true beauty of love within their marriage.
Genesis 1:27-28
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.'”
This verse speaks to the divine purpose and blessing of marriage. It reminds us that God created both male and female in His image and intended for them to come together in marriage.
Marriage is a gift and a blessing from God. It is a partnership where couples can fulfill God’s command to be fruitful, multiply, and have dominion over the earth. This verse highlights the significance and potential of marriage as a means of fulfilling God’s plans and purposes.
1 Corinthians 11:11-12
“Nevertheless, in the Lord woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God.”
This verse underscores the mutual dependence and equality between men and women. It emphasizes that men and women were created to complement and rely on each other.
In marriage, both the husband and wife have equal value and significance. They are meant to support and uplift one another, recognizing that they are both connected to each other and ultimately dependent on God.
This verse encourages couples to embrace their unique roles and gifts, understanding that true partnership is found in recognizing and valuing the contributions of both spouses.
Proverbs 14:1
“The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.”
This verse speaks to the impact a wife can have on her household. It suggests that a wise woman actively contributes to the building up and well-being of her family, while a foolish woman can contribute to its destruction.
A wise woman is intentional and takes responsibility for nurturing a loving and harmonious home. She uses her words, actions, and choices to edify and support her family. This verse encourages wives to be mindful of the influence they have and to consistently work towards building a strong and thriving home.
1 Peter 4:8
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of love within a marriage. It encourages couples to love one another deeply, recognizing that love has the power to forgive, heal, and overcome any wrongs or shortcomings.
Love is a powerful force that can transform and restore. This verse reminds couples to prioritize love in their relationship, understanding that it is through love that they can find forgiveness, reconciliation, and greater harmony.
Malachi 2:16
“The man who hates and divorces his wife,” says the LORD, the God of Israel, “does violence to the one he should protect,” says the LORD Almighty. So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful.”
This verse highlights God’s displeasure with divorce and the harm it causes within a marriage. It emphasizes the sacredness and commitment of the marital bond.
Divorce is not God’s plan, but rather an unfortunate result of brokenness and sin. This verse encourages couples to guard their marriage and be faithful in their commitment to one another. It serves as a reminder that marriage requires dedication, effort, and a commitment to persevering through difficulties in order to honor the sacredness of the marital covenant.
Proverbs 31:26
“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”
This verse highlights the importance of wise and uplifting communication within a marriage. It speaks to the influence and power of words.
A wife who speaks with wisdom and gives faithful instruction can strengthen and support her husband. This verse encourages wives to use their words to build up and encourage their husbands, recognizing the impact that positive and wise communication can have on their relationship.
Proverbs 31:30
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.”
This verse emphasizes the value of a woman who fears the Lord. It reminds us that external beauty and charm are temporary but that a woman who has a deep reverence and awe for God is truly praiseworthy.
Inner qualities such as faith, character, and virtue are far more enduring and precious than external appearances. This verse encourages husbands to appreciate and honor their wives for their godly character and devotion to the Lord.
Proverbs 5:18
“May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.”
This verse speaks to the joy and blessing found in a faithful and loving marriage. It encourages husbands to rejoice in their wives, particularly the wife they married in their youth.
This verse recognizes that married couples may have challenges and encounters with temptation. However, it reminds husbands to remain faithful, finding joy and satisfaction in their commitment to their spouse.
Proverbs 15:17
“Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred.”
This verse highlights the importance of love and harmony within a marriage over material possessions or abundance.
A marriage filled with love and mutual respect is far more fulfilling and satisfying than one built on material gain or success. This verse encourages couples to prioritize love, kindness, and peace in their relationship, understanding that these qualities bring lasting joy and contentment.
Psalm 128:3
“Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table.”
This verse paints a picture of a flourishing and blessed household, with a wife compared to a fruitful vine and children compared to olive shoots. It suggests that a wife and children who are thriving and flourishing reflect the blessing and favor of God.
Marriage and family are meant to be sources of joy and growth. This verse reminds couples of the potential for their marriage and family to experience abundance and fruitfulness, both spiritually and practically.
Hebrews 13:4
“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.”
This verse speaks to the sanctity and purity of marriage. It emphasizes the need to honor and protect the marital covenant, specifically in regards to sexual relations.
Marriage is meant to be a sacred and exclusive bond between a husband and wife. This verse encourages couples to value and treasure their marriage, keeping their relationship pure and free from sexual immorality.
Proverbs 21:9
“Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.”
This verse draws attention to the negative impact of constant quarreling and conflict within a marriage. It suggests that it is better to have distance and separation than to live together in constant strife.
A wife who is quarrelsome and contentious can create tension and discord within the household. This verse encourages couples to strive for a peaceful and harmonious relationship, resolving conflicts with love and understanding.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse speaks to the importance of mutual growth and edification within a marriage. It suggests that just as iron sharpens iron, couples can sharpen and refine one another through their companionship and support.
Marriage provides an opportunity for personal and spiritual growth as couples learn from and challenge one another. This verse encourages couples to embrace the refining process, recognizing that through their interactions and feedback, they can become better individuals and enjoy a stronger marriage.
Mark 10:9
“Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
This verse echoes the sentiment expressed in Matthew 19:4-6, emphasizing the indissolubility and sacredness of marriage.
Marriage is a divine institution, and this verse serves as a reminder that God intends for couples to stay together and not be separated. It encourages couples to remain committed and faithful to their marriage vows, seeking to preserve and strengthen their bond.
Proverbs 31:11
“Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.”
This verse speaks to the trust and confidence that a husband can have in his wife. It suggests that a wife who is trustworthy and capable brings great value and blessing to her husband’s life.
Trust is essential in a marriage. This verse encourages wives to be reliable and dependable, supporting and complementing their husbands in a way that brings fulfillment and success to their shared life.
What Does the Bible Say About Marriage Problems?
In the Bible, marriage is considered a sacred and lifelong covenant between a man and a woman. The Bible clearly affirms the importance of marriage and provides guidance on how to navigate the challenges that may arise within a marital relationship. When it comes to marriage problems, the Bible encourages us to seek God’s wisdom and rely on His strength to overcome difficulties.
One of the foundational principles the Bible offers for addressing marriage problems is the concept of selflessness and sacrificial love. In Ephesians 5:25, husbands are exhorted to love their wives as Christ loved the church, and wives are encouraged to respect and submit to their husbands. This sacrificial and mutual love is a powerful antidote to many marriage problems, as it fosters an environment where both spouses prioritize each other’s needs above their own.
Additionally, the Bible emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation in the context of marriage. In Ephesians 4:32, we are admonished to “be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” This principle underscores the necessity of extending grace and forgiveness to our spouses, even in the midst of deep-seated conflicts.
Furthermore, the Bible stresses the significance of seeking wise counsel and guidance from others within the faith community. Proverbs 15:22 reminds us that “without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.” Seeking the support and counsel of trusted Christian mentors, pastors, or counselors can provide valuable insights and perspectives that can help navigate and resolve marriage problems.
Ultimately, the Bible offers hope for struggling marriages by pointing us to the redemptive power of God’s love and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. As we entrust our marital difficulties to God and align our lives with His principles, we can experience healing, restoration, and renewed intimacy in our marriages. By applying biblical wisdom and relying on God’s grace, we can navigate marriage problems with faith and perseverance, trusting that God is able to bring beauty from the ashes and restore what may seem irreparably broken.