Insights on Marriage and Divorce on Oneplace.com

Have you ever noticed that the valuable things of this world take time to accomplish? Often, the more valuable they are, the more time they take to maintain and to appreciate. Marriage is one of the most valuable relationships God has given us. But in our fast-paced society, people seem less and less likely to give marriage the time it needs to grow and mature into something beautiful and holy. Instead, we give up on the pattern God instituted, looking for quick fixes and easy outs. Paul's letter to the Ephesians reminds us that there is a better way.Download Message Mate To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Have you ever noticed that the valuable things of this world take time to accomplish? Often, the more valuable they are, the more time they take to maintain and to appreciate. Marriage is one of the most valuable relationships God has given us. But in our fast-paced society, people seem less and less likely to give marriage the time it needs to grow and mature into something beautiful and holy. Instead, we give up on the pattern God instituted, looking for quick fixes and easy outs. Paul's letter to the Ephesians reminds us that there is a better way.Download Message Mate To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Ancient maps made before the earth had been circumnavigated often portrayed the unexplored areas with fire-breathing dragons. These scaly, frightening figures served to represent the fears of the people, as if to say, “Here be dragons.” In our current cultural climate, one in which egalitarianism is valued above all else, Ephesians 5:22-6:9 presents unfamiliar, often unexplored territory in the oceans of marriage. It is to such concepts as authority, submission, and daily self-sacrifice that we come, cautiously and thoughtfully, knowing that “here be dragons.”Download Message Mate To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Ancient maps made before the earth had been circumnavigated often portrayed the unexplored areas with fire-breathing dragons. These scaly, frightening figures served to represent the fears of the people, as if to say, “Here be dragons.” In our current cultural climate, one in which egalitarianism is valued above all else, Ephesians 5:22-6:9 presents unfamiliar, often unexplored territory in the oceans of marriage. It is to such concepts as authority, submission, and daily self-sacrifice that we come, cautiously and thoughtfully, knowing that “here be dragons.”Download Message Mate To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Ancient maps made before the earth had been circumnavigated often portrayed the unexplored areas with fire-breathing dragons. These scaly, frightening figures served to represent the fears of the people, as if to say, “Here be dragons.” In our current cultural climate, one in which egalitarianism is valued above all else, Ephesians 5:22-6:9 presents unfamiliar, often unexplored territory in the oceans of marriage. It is to such concepts as authority, submission, and daily self-sacrifice that we come, cautiously and thoughtfully, knowing that “here be dragons.”Download Message Mate To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The more valuable things are, the more time they take. This is especially true of handmade valuables, like beautiful Turkish rugs. For weeks, months, and sometimes years, workers sit on stools weaving one thread and then another to create the intricate patterns of a rug that is not only striking but will last for generations to come. Marriage is like that—it takes time, but if God's pattern is followed, it produces a thing of lasting value.Download Transcript To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The more valuable things are, the more time they take. This is especially true of handmade valuables, like beautiful Turkish rugs. For weeks, months, and sometimes years, workers sit on stools weaving one thread and then another to create the intricate patterns of a rug that is not only striking but will last for generations to come. Marriage is like that—it takes time, but if God's pattern is followed, it produces a thing of lasting value.Download Transcript To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Caleb continues to be a prime example of how to take on life with a great attitude. At the ripe, young age of 85, he was alert, motivated, positive, and eager to undertake any endeavor. We find in Caleb no less than three specific attitude choices that will keep a marriage youthful even as we grow older. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Caleb continues to be a prime example of how to take on life with a great attitude. At the ripe, young age of 85, he was alert, motivated, positive, and eager to undertake any endeavor. We find in Caleb no less than three specific attitude choices that will keep a marriage youthful even as we grow older. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Our adversary's favorite strategy is erosion. His goal is to dull our senses, to make us think the gradual drift from moral purity and family priority is no big deal. As we observe the danger signs of domestic erosion in a family that lived centuries ago, perhaps we will be encouraged to respond quickly and decisively to avoid total collapse. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Our adversary's favorite strategy is erosion. His goal is to dull our senses, to make us think the gradual drift from moral purity and family priority is no big deal. As we observe the danger signs of domestic erosion in a family that lived centuries ago, perhaps we will be encouraged to respond quickly and decisively to avoid total collapse. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Our adversary's favorite strategy is erosion. His goal is to dull our senses, to make us think the gradual drift from moral purity and family priority is no big deal. As we observe the danger signs of domestic erosion in a family that lived centuries ago, perhaps we will be encouraged to respond quickly and decisively to avoid total collapse. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Whether newly married, rearing a houseful of children, or tending an empty nest, a happy marriage—a happy family—needs the same essential disciplines to succeed. Several passages in the latter half of Ephesians provide no less than six habits that, if cultivated, will help reinforce healthy models of relating while keeping poor habits from repeating themselves in our marriages. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Whether newly married, rearing a houseful of children, or tending an empty nest, a happy marriage—a happy family—needs the same essential disciplines to succeed. Several passages in the latter half of Ephesians provide no less than six habits that, if cultivated, will help reinforce healthy models of relating while keeping poor habits from repeating themselves in our marriages. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Amazingly, we can spend a lot of time and energy learning how to keep a marriage intact without ever discussing the essential ingredient that keeps people together. That essential glue is love—taken for granted, poorly understood, yet absolutely crucial. Paul's grand treatise on agape in 1 Corinthians 13 describes love in practical terms that will help us express it effectively to our mates. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Amazingly, we can spend a lot of time and energy learning how to keep a marriage intact without ever discussing the essential ingredient that keeps people together. That essential glue is love—taken for granted, poorly understood, yet absolutely crucial. Paul's grand treatise on agape in 1 Corinthians 13 describes love in practical terms that will help us express it effectively to our mates. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Paul wrote Ephesians 4:25-32 to the members of the church at Ephesus, giving them practical principles to apply in order to build unity. Five principles found among eleven commands give concrete expression to the quality of grace, which always draws people closer together. If the instruction in this passage can unify a church body, how much more will it sweeten a marriage? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Paul wrote Ephesians 4:25-32 to the members of the church at Ephesus, giving them practical principles to apply in order to build unity. Five principles found among eleven commands give concrete expression to the quality of grace, which always draws people closer together. If the instruction in this passage can unify a church body, how much more will it sweeten a marriage? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The dangers that marriages face are numerous and formidable. So what's the secret to marital survival? Harmony in the key of C. Commitment is nothing more complicated than deciding to stay with your partner, no matter what. When partners are committed to one another, a marriage can survive extreme challenges such as the consequences of sin, conflict between the partners, or difficult life circumstances. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The dangers that marriages face are numerous and formidable. So what's the secret to marital survival? Harmony in the key of C. Commitment is nothing more complicated than deciding to stay with your partner, no matter what. When partners are committed to one another, a marriage can survive extreme challenges such as the consequences of sin, conflict between the partners, or difficult life circumstances. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

While we're unable to return to the Garden of Eden, we can nevertheless cultivate wholesome habits that contribute to a satisfying family life. In order to enjoy true intimacy despite the effects of the Fall, we must recognize the Lord's original plan for marriage, take responsibility for how we've blown it in the past, and begin taking steps to get back on target. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

While we're unable to return to the Garden of Eden, we can nevertheless cultivate wholesome habits that contribute to a satisfying family life. In order to enjoy true intimacy despite the effects of the Fall, we must recognize the Lord's original plan for marriage, take responsibility for how we've blown it in the past, and begin taking steps to get back on target. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Today's family bears little resemblance to the family of the last generation. While the times and the families have changed, we can be sure that God's Wordthe only reliable source of truthwill always remain the same. Following His Word will help our marriages not only survive our constantly changing culture, but even thrive. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Today's family bears little resemblance to the family of the last generation. While the times and the families have changed, we can be sure that God's Wordthe only reliable source of truthwill always remain the same. Following His Word will help our marriages not only survive our constantly changing culture, but even thrive. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Today's family bears little resemblance to the family of the last generation. While the times and the families have changed, we can be sure that God's Wordthe only reliable source of truthwill always remain the same. Following His Word will help our marriages not only survive our constantly changing culture, but even thrive. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Today's family bears little resemblance to the family of the last generation. While the times and the families have changed, we can be sure that God's Wordthe only reliable source of truthwill always remain the same. Following His Word will help our marriages not only survive our constantly changing culture, but even thrive. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Some sections of Scripture seem more like a minefield littered with explosives than a treasure chest full of truth. One such section of Scripture deals with the topic of a wife submitting to her husband. We step into it with the full understanding that the topic is known for flaring tempers and causing misunderstandings. Rather than ignoring it, how much more does this passage cry out for a level-headed approach informed by historical, cultural, and biblical contexts? So let's tackle the question: What does submission really mean? Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Some sections of Scripture seem more like a minefield littered with explosives than a treasure chest full of truth. One such section of Scripture deals with the topic of a wife submitting to her husband. We step into it with the full understanding that the topic is known for flaring tempers and causing misunderstandings. Rather than ignoring it, how much more does this passage cry out for a level-headed approach informed by historical, cultural, and biblical contexts? So let's tackle the question: What does submission really mean? Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Some sections of Scripture seem more like a minefield littered with explosives than a treasure chest full of truth. One such section of Scripture deals with the topic of a wife submitting to her husband. We step into it with the full understanding that the topic is known for flaring tempers and causing misunderstandings. Rather than ignoring it, how much more does this passage cry out for a level-headed approach informed by historical, cultural, and biblical contexts? So let's tackle the question: What does submission really mean? Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Some sections of Scripture seem more like a minefield littered with explosives than a treasure chest full of truth. One such section of Scripture deals with the topic of a wife submitting to her husband. We step into it with the full understanding that the topic is known for flaring tempers and causing misunderstandings. Rather than ignoring it, how much more does this passage cry out for a level-headed approach informed by historical, cultural, and biblical contexts? So let's tackle the question: What does submission really mean? Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Some sections of Scripture seem more like a minefield littered with explosives than a treasure chest full of truth. One such section of Scripture deals with the topic of a wife submitting to her husband. We step into it with the full understanding that the topic is known for flaring tempers and causing misunderstandings. Rather than ignoring it, how much more does this passage cry out for a level-headed approach informed by historical, cultural, and biblical contexts? So let's tackle the question: What does submission really mean? Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Some sections of Scripture seem more like a minefield littered with explosives than a treasure chest full of truth. One such section of Scripture deals with the topic of a wife submitting to her husband. We step into it with the full understanding that the topic is known for flaring tempers and causing misunderstandings. Rather than ignoring it, how much more does this passage cry out for a level-headed approach informed by historical, cultural, and biblical contexts? So let's tackle the question: What does submission really mean? Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The idyllic marital bliss of Adam and Eve was split in two when sin wedged itself between them. Everything changed, between this couple and every other couple in history. Divorces are epidemic, and though the causes are myriad, at their root is sin. One partner's sin may be overt, but the failure that results in a broken marriage is invariably a two-way journey traveled by two guilty sinners. But once the divorce is finalized, the question often arises: Is remarriage always permissible . . . never permissible . . . sometimes permissible? What does Scripture say? Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The idyllic marital bliss of Adam and Eve was split in two when sin wedged itself between them. Everything changed, between this couple and every other couple in history. Divorces are epidemic, and though the causes are myriad, at their root is sin. One partner's sin may be overt, but the failure that results in a broken marriage is invariably a two-way journey traveled by two guilty sinners. But once the divorce is finalized, the question often arises: Is remarriage always permissible . . . never permissible . . . sometimes permissible? What does Scripture say? Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The idyllic marital bliss of Adam and Eve was split in two when sin wedged itself between them. Everything changed, between this couple and every other couple in history. Divorces are epidemic, and though the causes are myriad, at their root is sin. One partner's sin may be overt, but the failure that results in a broken marriage is invariably a two-way journey traveled by two guilty sinners. But once the divorce is finalized, the question often arises: Is remarriage always permissible . . . never permissible . . . sometimes permissible? What does Scripture say? Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The idyllic marital bliss of Adam and Eve was split in two when sin wedged itself between them. Everything changed, between this couple and every other couple in history. Divorces are epidemic, and though the causes are myriad, at their root is sin. One partner's sin may be overt, but the failure that results in a broken marriage is invariably a two-way journey traveled by two guilty sinners. But once the divorce is finalized, the question often arises: Is remarriage always permissible . . . never permissible . . . sometimes permissible? What does Scripture say? Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The idyllic marital bliss of Adam and Eve was split in two when sin wedged itself between them. Everything changed, between this couple and every other couple in history. Divorces are epidemic, and though the causes are myriad, at their root is sin. One partner's sin may be overt, but the failure that results in a broken marriage is invariably a two-way journey traveled by two guilty sinners. But once the divorce is finalized, the question often arises: Is remarriage always permissible . . . never permissible . . . sometimes permissible? What does Scripture say? Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The idyllic marital bliss of Adam and Eve was split in two when sin wedged itself between them. Everything changed, between this couple and every other couple in history. Divorces are epidemic, and though the causes are myriad, at their root is sin. One partner's sin may be overt, but the failure that results in a broken marriage is invariably a two-way journey traveled by two guilty sinners. But once the divorce is finalized, the question often arises: Is remarriage always permissible . . . never permissible . . . sometimes permissible? What does Scripture say? Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

No study on the subject of grace would be complete without addressing its importance in the home, especially between marriage partners. We have spent considerable time examining God's grace in His offering salvation to those who are lost, spiritually dead, and unable to do anything to earn divine acceptance. We've called that vertical grace. We have also searched Scripture for insight in the realm of horizontal grace, our attitude toward and treatment of one another. But we have not specifically considered the essential value of grace in the husband-wife relationship. As we shall see in this lesson, grace is the oil that decreases domestic friction, the one ingredient that prompts us to release our partners to be all God would have them be, all the while affirming one another in an atmosphere of unconditional love. Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

No study on the subject of grace would be complete without addressing its importance in the home, especially between marriage partners. We have spent considerable time examining God's grace in His offering salvation to those who are lost, spiritually dead, and unable to do anything to earn divine acceptance. We've called that vertical grace. We have also searched Scripture for insight in the realm of horizontal grace, our attitude toward and treatment of one another. But we have not specifically considered the essential value of grace in the husband-wife relationship. As we shall see in this lesson, grace is the oil that decreases domestic friction, the one ingredient that prompts us to release our partners to be all God would have them be, all the while affirming one another in an atmosphere of unconditional love. Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

No study on the subject of grace would be complete without addressing its importance in the home, especially between marriage partners. We have spent considerable time examining God's grace in His offering salvation to those who are lost, spiritually dead, and unable to do anything to earn divine acceptance. We've called that vertical grace. We have also searched Scripture for insight in the realm of horizontal grace, our attitude toward and treatment of one another. But we have not specifically considered the essential value of grace in the husband-wife relationship. As we shall see in this lesson, grace is the oil that decreases domestic friction, the one ingredient that prompts us to release our partners to be all God would have them be, all the while affirming one another in an atmosphere of unconditional love. Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

No study on the subject of grace would be complete without addressing its importance in the home, especially between marriage partners. We have spent considerable time examining God's grace in His offering salvation to those who are lost, spiritually dead, and unable to do anything to earn divine acceptance. We've called that vertical grace. We have also searched Scripture for insight in the realm of horizontal grace, our attitude toward and treatment of one another. But we have not specifically considered the essential value of grace in the husband-wife relationship. As we shall see in this lesson, grace is the oil that decreases domestic friction, the one ingredient that prompts us to release our partners to be all God would have them be, all the while affirming one another in an atmosphere of unconditional love. Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

No study on the subject of grace would be complete without addressing its importance in the home, especially between marriage partners. We have spent considerable time examining God's grace in His offering salvation to those who are lost, spiritually dead, and unable to do anything to earn divine acceptance. We've called that vertical grace. We have also searched Scripture for insight in the realm of horizontal grace, our attitude toward and treatment of one another. But we have not specifically considered the essential value of grace in the husband-wife relationship. As we shall see in this lesson, grace is the oil that decreases domestic friction, the one ingredient that prompts us to release our partners to be all God would have them be, all the while affirming one another in an atmosphere of unconditional love. Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

No study on the subject of grace would be complete without addressing its importance in the home, especially between marriage partners. We have spent considerable time examining God's grace in His offering salvation to those who are lost, spiritually dead, and unable to do anything to earn divine acceptance. We've called that vertical grace. We have also searched Scripture for insight in the realm of horizontal grace, our attitude toward and treatment of one another. But we have not specifically considered the essential value of grace in the husband-wife relationship. As we shall see in this lesson, grace is the oil that decreases domestic friction, the one ingredient that prompts us to release our partners to be all God would have them be, all the while affirming one another in an atmosphere of unconditional love. Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The last stage of marriage is that period of time when the nest is emptyeither empty of the children or of one of the mates . . . or both. This is a critical stage in the home. All sorts of strange and unpredictable feelings transpire, and we find ourselves in need of stabilizing thoughts and direction. God gives that to us in this passage from Hebrews. Though it was not originally written regarding marriage, it has practical overtones that perfectly apply to the domestic scene: pursue spiritual maturity. Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The last stage of marriage is that period of time when the nest is emptyeither empty of the children or of one of the mates . . . or both. This is a critical stage in the home. All sorts of strange and unpredictable feelings transpire, and we find ourselves in need of stabilizing thoughts and direction. God gives that to us in this passage from Hebrews. Though it was not originally written regarding marriage, it has practical overtones that perfectly apply to the domestic scene: pursue spiritual maturity. Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The last stage of marriage is that period of time when the nest is emptyeither empty of the children or of one of the mates . . . or both. This is a critical stage in the home. All sorts of strange and unpredictable feelings transpire, and we find ourselves in need of stabilizing thoughts and direction. God gives that to us in this passage from Hebrews. Though it was not originally written regarding marriage, it has practical overtones that perfectly apply to the domestic scene: pursue spiritual maturity. Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

The last stage of marriage is that period of time when the nest is emptyeither empty of the children or of one of the mates . . . or both. This is a critical stage in the home. All sorts of strange and unpredictable feelings transpire, and we find ourselves in need of stabilizing thoughts and direction. God gives that to us in this passage from Hebrews. Though it was not originally written regarding marriage, it has practical overtones that perfectly apply to the domestic scene: pursue spiritual maturity. Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Everybody gets older. Admit it or not. The question is, Will we grow sweeter, or will we rot? Once all the children have left the nest and two people who honeymooned together twenty-five or thirty years ago are left to start over, how can they resist negative tendencies and stay young at heart? How can they support each other's growth toward spiritual maturity? Solomon, in the last two chapters of Ecclesiastes, set forth five reminders that couples must heed if they want to get better as they get older. Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Everybody gets older. Admit it or not. The question is, Will we grow sweeter, or will we rot? Once all the children have left the nest and two people who honeymooned together twenty-five or thirty years ago are left to start over, how can they resist negative tendencies and stay young at heart? How can they support each other's growth toward spiritual maturity? Solomon, in the last two chapters of Ecclesiastes, set forth five reminders that couples must heed if they want to get better as they get older. Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29

Everybody gets older. Admit it or not. The question is, Will we grow sweeter, or will we rot? Once all the children have left the nest and two people who honeymooned together twenty-five or thirty years ago are left to start over, how can they resist negative tendencies and stay young at heart? How can they support each other's growth toward spiritual maturity? Solomon, in the last two chapters of Ecclesiastes, set forth five reminders that couples must heed if they want to get better as they get older. Download Message Mates To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1118/29