September 11: A Covenant, Not a Contract

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 Her Marriage and Relationship

A Covenant, Not a Contract

Malachi 2:14 Marriage as a Holy Covenant

By Sharon Campbell Danvers | Daughters Arise Ministries

Scripture Focus:
“You ask, ‘Why?’ It is because the Lord is the witness between you and the wife of your youth. You have been unfaithful to her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant.”

Malachi 2:14 (NIV)

Marriage is not merely a legal contract. It is a sacred covenant, and God Himself is the witness to that covenant. This verse from Malachi powerfully reminds us that marriage carries profound spiritual significance. It is not simply a union based on convenience, romance, or mutual benefit. It is a divine agreement, one that demands faithfulness, honour, and accountability before God.

Sadly, we have seen the sanctity of marriage diminished in many ways. People enter into marriage for all the wrong reasons: to have children, to secure legal status, to beat the biological clock, to silence societal pressure, or to resolve financial instability. While these realities are part of life, they should not be the foundation upon which marriage is built.

God is the witness, not only on the wedding day but throughout the entire journey. He sees the foundation we build upon. He observes the vows we speak and the ones we silently break. Unfaithfulness is not only physical betrayal; it is also evident in how we treat our spouse, communicate with them, prioritize their needs, and nurture or neglect the covenant.

It is also unfaithful to infringe upon the sacredness of someone else’s marriage, whether through flirtation, emotional entanglement, or anything that dishonours the marital bond. God does not turn a blind eye. He is the witness. And with that divine witness comes divine accountability.

When we understand marriage as a covenant, our perspective shifts:

  • We stop treating it as disposable.
  • We stop demanding perfection and instead pursue grace.
  • We honour our partner not just in word, but in action.
  • We seek God’s help to uphold the covenant, not just our own willpower.

A covenant is meant to endure. It requires intention, sacrifice, and constant recommitment. But the reward is great, marriages rooted in God’s covenant reflect His love, loyalty, and redemptive power.

Reflection Questions:

  1. What was the foundation of your marriage when you entered it?

  2. Are there any areas where unfaithfulness—of word, thought, or deed—needs to be repented of?

  3. How does knowing that God is a witness to your marriage change how you love and honour your spouse?

Prayer:
Holy God,
Thank You for being a faithful witness to my marriage. Forgive me for the times I have taken this covenant lightly. Help me to honour the sacred bond You have joined. Strengthen my heart to walk in faithfulness—not only in actions but also in love, respect, and integrity. Teach me to treat my marriage as a holy ground, and may my commitment reflect the covenant You have made with me.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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