Deuteronomy 24:1-4 - “Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt. “Do not take advantage of the widow or the fatherless. If you do and they cry out to me, I will certainly hear their cry. My anger will be aroused, and I will kill you with the sword; your wives will become widows and your children fatherless.

Marriage is a sacred union that should be entered into wisely and responsibly. God's Word teaches that we must care for the vulnerable, like widows and orphans, and treat foreigners with compassion, as we were all once strangers in a foreign land. It also instructs men to respect women and fulfill their marital duties honorably.

While God designed marriage to be a blessing, it requires commitment, sacrifice and faithfulness on the part of both spouses. The Bible passages remind us that marriage affects more than just a husband and wife - it impacts children and community as well. As such, we must approach the subject of marriage, and all human relationships, with humility, wisdom and grace. When we lose sight of God's intentions for relationships and take advantage of others for our own gain, it has real world consequences and goes against His perfect design. However, when we model Christ's selfless love in our marriages and families, it can be a powerful witness and a source of stability for those around us.

Lord, thank You for the gift of marriage and family. Help me to honor my commitments, to be patient and kind with my spouse, and to put their needs before my own. Give me wisdom to resolve conflicts peacefully and a servant's heart. Bless the widows, orphans and strangers in my community, as You have blessed me. May I reflect Your love and compassion to the vulnerable. In Jesus' name, Amen.