There is the tendency for marriage to decay as years go by. Everything in this world has a default setting to decay and unless deliberate steps are taken to reinvigorate marriages, couples can find themselves in “living dead” marriages. The marriage exists in name but dead in reality.

Jeremiah 2:2
“Go and proclaim in the hearing of Jerusalem: This is what the Lord says: “I remember the devotion of your youth, how as a bride you loved me and followed me through the wilderness, through a land not sown.”

In this verse, God compares his relationship with Israel to marriage. I want you to notice a few things.
1. Commitment
It takes commitment or “devotion” to be married for a long time. This is an act of the will and to avoid a dry marriage, couples need to be committed to the end.

2. Faithfulness
Time changes people and Israel was committed only in her “youth”. As couples age and change, the temptation to be unfaithful increases. Faithfulness is key to a good marriage.

3. Love
God said; “you loved me” (past tense). Love can die and couples must always nurture love with kind words, good conduct, respect etc.

4. Endurance
Israel used to follow God “through the wilderness” This is symbolic of difficulty. The ability to take pain and sacrifice for each other is crucial for a successful long lasting marriage.

Keep on loving.

Kakra Baiden