When the Word of God said, “Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13, NLT) He did not mean that it was true only for certain things. Instead, it is true in every aspect of life including the marriage relationship. ​

One day, two strangers came across each other and they recognized something in each other that was different than others they knew. They wanted to seek more about each other and desired to know each other’s life. Some may pray and sincerely seek the Lord’s will, some may just follow their heart as the world taught them. Day after day, year after year…they decided it was time for a new chapter in their relationship. They believed that they could make a future out of this relationship. They invited many others to celebrate and be their witnesses. They stood in front of them and God and made a vow. They repeated the commitment, "In the name of God, I, _____, take you, _____, to be my wife/husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until parted by death.” After they made their vow, they started their new journey together. But, from this point forward will they live happily ever after?

It sounds like this story (or I should say every story of a marriage relationship) needs a lot of faith. A faith that requires trust in a person who could change like a shifting shadow. A faith to keep walking with each other and maintain a good relationship till the day of death. However, the faith they need is not a faith to trust in a person, but the faith that God requires of them: being faithful. From this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health…no matter what the situation may be, they must stay faithful to each other. Love is not in word but an action. Love is not demonstrated by receiving it, but by giving it. Love does not count the wrongs, but the blessings. Love does not seek self-benefit, but the good of the other person. Love is knowing that though their life journey together may have challenges, difficulties, changes, and temptation…they will also cling to hope. When they run into problems and trials, they will help each other endure. Endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. (Romans 5:3-4) That salvation hope carries us through the worse times, the hardship of poverty, and the suffering of sickness. These three things - faith, hope, and love – ensure that our marriage will last forever.

How is it possible to live in faith, hope, and love regardless of the circumstance? Especially when it may require long-suffering in the bad times…even up to the last breath of life? The answer is Jesus. He demonstrated His love for His bride – you and I. He was mocked, betrayed, hurts, and slaughtered by those He loved like a sheep. Yet, He still loves us and carries our sin so that we may have life and life abundantly. If you happen to be reading this article, whether you know Jesus or not, it’s time to know and welcome Him to come to your heart. He can show you and lead you in the walk of faith, hope, and love. May the greatest thing remain in your marriage – Him, because He is love. 

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