Covenant & Connection Marriage Retreat

Marriage According to Scripture: A Framework for Lasting Love
🌿 1. God’s Definition of Marriage
Marriage is not a human invention—it is God’s design, established from the beginning as a covenant, not a contract. Scripture consistently frames marriage as:
• A sacred covenant (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:4–6)
• A reflection of Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:31–32)
• A partnership marked by unity, love, and mutual devotion
This foundation matters because it shapes everything else—identity, expectations, and the way couples navigate challenges.

🤝 2. God’s Design for Our Roles
Biblical roles are not about hierarchy or power—they are about mutual submission, sacrificial love, and Christlike humility.
• Husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loved the church—sacrificially, tenderly, and with spiritual leadership rooted in service (Ephesians 5:25).
• Wives are called to respect and support their husbands, partnering with them in unity and strength (Ephesians 5:22–24).
• Both are called to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:21).
Healthy roles reflect the character of Jesus: humility, honor, and self‑giving love.

🔧 3. Conflict Resolution That Honors God
Conflict is inevitable—sin, stress, and differences collide. But Scripture gives us a path toward peace:
• Slow to speak, slow to anger (James 1:19)
• Speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15)
• Forgive as Christ forgave (Colossians 3:13)
• Seek reconciliation quickly (Matthew 5:23–24)
• Guard against bitterness (Hebrews 12:15)
Healthy conflict is not the absence of disagreement—it’s the presence of humility, empathy, and a commitment to unity.

💛 4. Key Principles for Building a Lasting Relationship
These timeless biblical principles strengthen marriages and help couples grow closer to God and each other:
• Covenant over convenience
• Grace over perfection
• Unity over winning
• Intentional connection over autopilot
• Prayer as the anchor
• Shared purpose and vision
• Emotional honesty and safety
• Continual pursuit of one another
When couples practice these rhythms, they cultivate a marriage that is resilient, tender, and deeply rooted in Christ.