And He answered and said to them, “Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.” (Matthew 19:4-6)

As we prepare to celebrate Valentine’s Day with that special someone, I want to address those who are married and those who hope to be married one day with words of encouragement about marriage.

Marriage is first a gift from God. Because it comes from the heart of our Creator, it is a good gift. God created it and His desire is for His children to enjoy it.

Secondly, marriage allows me the privilege to experience unconditional love, both receiving it and giving it. While there are days she and I find ourselves at odds, my wife and I choose to love each other in spite of our flaws. This is not a natural choice for us but one God has placed in our hearts to do. After all, He unconditionally loved us by sending His Son to die for us – sinners deserving His wrath.

Finally, marriage allows me to get up every morning and experience life’s ups and downs with a woman who has promised to stay by my side no matter how difficult the circumstances. My job is to love her and cherish her, protect her and provide for her. She deserves it.

Marriage is not easy. It is a lifetime investment. It takes hard work and commitment. It’s also the best thing that ever happened to me (second only to Jesus saving me). I am thankful for my marriage and my God who created it.

I hope you have a Happy Valentine’s Day!