Marriage is the deepest connection people experience—a relationship grounded in love, respect, and unshakable support. When two people say “I do,” they’re not just exchanging vows; they’re starting a shared adventure. They promise to face life’s peaks and valleys side by side, building something together that neither could achieve alone.
William Barclay, in DSB: The Letters to the Corinthians, puts it perfectly: “Marriage is a partnership. The husband cannot act independently of the wife, nor the wife of the husband. They must always act together.”
Barclay’s words cut through the reality of modern life, reminding us that marriage isn’t a solo performance—it’s a duet. Marriage flourishes when both husband and wife move in sync, and not when one overshadows the other.
A Countercultural Commitment
In a culture that glorifies independence and self-reliance, we’re constantly told: “Be your own hero. You don’t need anyone else.” And while there’s truth in developing your individual character and potential, marriage reminds us there is more to the story.
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Marriage is not about what one person can achieve alone—it is about what two can accomplish together. A marriage built on one partner’s efforts is like a house with half a foundation; it might stand for a while, but it won’t weather the storms.
What Partnership Really Looks Like
So, what does real partnership look like?
It’s in the daily grind of responsibilities and plans that require making decisions as a team. These decisions involve money, kids, decorations, gifts, and vacations. It is found in lifting each other up when life gets heavy—cheering the victories of one another and cushioning the inevitable falls. This partnership is seen in sharing the load, from the daily chores to accomplishing dreams, knowing the strength of “us” hinges is greater than the strength of the individual.
But this partnership runs deeper than practicalities. It is also about respect—truly listening to each other, even when there is a disagreement. It’s about vulnerability—opening up with your heart, hoping the other person sees you for who you are.
Picture a marriage where both the wife and the husband hear each other out, able to speak honestly, and wrestle through the hard stuff together. That is not just a relationship; that is life at its best.
Not Roommates, But Teammates
Barclay’s wisdom isn’t some outdated ideal—it’s a challenge.
Marriage isn’t two people living separate lives under one roof, acting more like roommates than a loving husband and wife. It’s about weaving those two lives into something tougher, richer, and more life-giving. For those who follow Jesus this includes weaving into the marriage the third strand of God. When couples embrace this—uniting as a team, valuing each other’s voices, sharing the burden, and living by faith—they don’t just endure. They shine.
The Takeaway
A great marriage isn’t built by one superstar and a sidekick. It’s forged by two partners, equally invested, equally committed, and equally surrendered to Jesus.
Love isn’t the finish line—it’s the fuel. And with it, you can create a marriage that doesn’t just last, but lights up the world around you.
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