Sanctification : the Source of Marital Happiness

"He who finds a wife finds happiness; it is a favor he receives from the Lord." (Proverbs 18:22)Marriage is undeniably a great blessing, for a wife is a trustworthy partner and a precious helper. However, true happiness does not originate in marriage itself, but in a personal encounter with Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life. Those who find Christ receive true happiness and are then able to share it with their spouse.Ignoring this truth can lead us to turn marriage into our ultimate source of happiness, treating it as a form of salvation. This carries the risk of entering into an unhealthy marriage, or of accepting all kinds of compromises simply to remain married, even when such compromises run contrary to our faith and our life of sanctification, which is expressed through obedience to God in all circumstances.