God’s Gift of Companionship

Today’s Open Heaven Reflection delves into the heart of marriage, exploring God’s purpose and pattern for this sacred union. The scripture reading from Genesis 2:18-25 recounts the creation of Eve and her role as a companion for Adam. This passage serves as a foundation for understanding the importance of companionship in a marriage.

The Divine Design: Marriage Rooted in Companionship

The “key verse” of the devotional, Genesis 2:18, powerfully declares: “And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.” Here, we see God acknowledging the inherent need for companionship in human life. Adam, despite being surrounded by God’s creation, lacked a true companion – someone to share life’s journey with, to offer emotional support, and to connect with on a deeper level.

A World in Need: Reclaiming Companionship in Marriage

The devotional laments the decline of companionship in modern society. It highlights the rising divorce rates and the diminishing value placed on qualities like trust, faithfulness, and commitment within marriages. This decline in companionship, the message suggests, leads to family breakdown and societal instability.

Jesus’ Teaching: Upholding God’s Original Plan

The devotional finds solace in Jesus’ words in Matthew 19:5-6, echoing God’s original plan for marriage. Jesus emphasizes the unification of husband and wife, becoming “one flesh.” This unity thrives upon a foundation of companionship and intimacy, the very elements God deemed essential for Adam and Eve.

The Bedrock of a Strong Family and Society

The message underscores the pivotal role of companionship in building strong families. Without it, a sense of chaos can set in, leading to a breakdown of values like trust, commitment, and respect. A healthy marriage, built upon genuine companionship, becomes the bedrock of a stable family unit, which in turn contributes to a stronger society.

The Role of the Church: Promoting True Companionship

The devotional concludes with a powerful call to action for the church. It asks, “What can the church do to restore genuine companionship in marriage?” While the answer isn’t explicitly provided, it leaves the reader pondering the role churches can play in fostering healthy marriages through teachings, counseling services, and programs that emphasize communication, understanding, and building strong bonds.

The Power of Prayer: Seeking Restoration

The accompanying prayer is a simple yet profound plea: “Oh Lord, restore genuine companionship in our marriages.” This prayer acknowledges the need for God’s intervention in strengthening existing marriages and guiding couples towards a deeper sense of companionship.

Beyond the Blog: A Journey of Exploration

The “Bible in One Year” reading plan (1 Kings 8-9; Luke 23:39-56) serves as a springboard for further exploration. By delving into these passages, readers can gain additional insights into God’s design for relationships, finding inspiration and guidance for their own marriages.

In Conclusion: Marriage – A Gift Built on Companionship

Open Heaven Reflection’s message on companionship serves as a powerful reminder of God’s intention for marriage. Marriage is not simply a legal contract or a social construct; it’s a divinely ordained union built upon the foundation of companionship. By prioritizing companionship, couples can create a space for mutual understanding, love, and support, fostering a thriving marriage that enriches their lives and strengthens the fabric of society.