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In our 12-part series, we explored traditional family values and the biblical foundation of marriage. We examined how neglecting these values has led to societal decline. We highlighted the importance of marriage as a divine institution established by God. This week, we delve deeper into how biblical marriage contributes to human happiness. It fulfills our need for companionship, intimacy, and a profound spiritual connection.
Companionship and Intimacy
As discussed in Part 1, the traditional family, as designed by God, is foundational to a healthy and loving environment. This week, we explore how marriage explicitly addresses the human need for companionship and intimacy.
Proverbs 18:22 states, “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” This verse emphasizes the value of marriage and suggests that finding a spouse brings goodness and favor from God. The companionship and intimacy in marriage are divine gifts that contribute to human happiness.
Marriage provides a unique form of companionship. In Genesis 2:18, God says, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” This verse underscores the importance of companionship. God created Eve to be a partner for Adam. Humans are not meant to live in isolation. Instead, they thrive in relationships where they can share their lives, experiences, and emotions.
Secular research supports the idea that marriage contributes significantly to human happiness. Studies show that married individuals report higher levels of life satisfaction. They also experience more well-being compared to their unmarried counterparts. The National Bureau of Economic Research found that “marriage is correlated with higher levels of subjective well-being and lower levels of depression.” This research highlights the psychological benefits of having a committed partner. This partner provides emotional support, understanding, and companionship.
(You can read more about this study and access the full paper here (NBER) (NBER).)
Human Need for Affection and Deep Relationships
Affection and deep relationships are fundamental to human well-being. Marriage offers a unique context for the expression of these needs. The love and affection shared between spouses create a bond that fosters emotional security and happiness.
Ephesians 5:25 instructs husbands to “love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” This profound love is characterized by selflessness, commitment, and sacrifice. Such love within a marriage creates a nurturing environment where both partners feel valued and cherished. This deep emotional connection is essential for human happiness, fulfilling the innate need for love and affection.
Secular studies also underscore the importance of deep relationships in achieving happiness. The Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running studies on human happiness, found that “good relationships keep us happier and healthier.” According to the study’s director, Robert Waldinger, “people who are more socially connected to family, friends, and community are happier, physically healthier, and live longer than less well connected” (Waldinger, 2015). As a deep and committed relationship, marriage plays a crucial role in this social connectivity, enhancing overall happiness. (More details about this study can be found on the Harvard Study of Adult Development website.)
The Mystical Bond in Marriage
The bond in marriage goes beyond companionship and affection; it creates a mystical and spiritual union. The Bible beautifully illustrates this concept, particularly in Ephesians 5:31-32, which states, “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church.” The unity in marriage mirrors the deep, spiritual connection between Christ and the church, showing that marriage is more than just a social contract; it is a divine institution that binds two souls together.
People often refer to this mystical bond as the “oneness” in marriage, where two individuals become one entity in a profound spiritual and emotional sense. This concept of oneness enhances the sense of belonging and unity, significantly contributing to human happiness.
Secular perspectives also recognize the unique bond in marriage. Psychologist Dr. John Gottman, known for his work on marital stability, identifies “shared meaning” as a critical factor in successful marriages. He explains that couples cultivating a sense of shared purpose and understanding experience deeper connections and greater relationship satisfaction (Gottman & Silver, 1999). This shared meaning and connection align with the Biblical notion of becoming “one flesh,” highlighting the unique bond that marriage creates. (For further reading on Dr. Gottman’s work, visit his official website).
Conclusion
Marriage is essential to human happiness by providing companionship, intimacy, and a profound sense of connection. Both scripture and secular research support the idea that marriage fulfills deep human needs for affection, relationships, and a mystical bond. Proverbs 18:22, Genesis 2:18, and Ephesians 5:25, 31-32 underscore the Biblical foundation of marriage as a source of goodness, companionship, and divine unity. Secular studies affirm that married individuals generally experience higher life satisfaction, emotional support, and psychological well-being.
As we continue this series, let us reflect on marriage’s significant role in enhancing human happiness and promoting a fulfilling life. By adhering to the Biblical principles of marriage discussed in Part 2 and recognizing the broader impact of traditional family values highlighted in Part 1, we can work towards a society that truly reflects God’s love and purpose.
The author generated this text for research and SEO recommendations in part with GPT-4.0, OpenAI’s large-scale language-generation model.
