Appreciate God's Perfect Gift When It Is Truly From God

Foundational Text 1 — Ecclesiastes 9:9 (KJV)

Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that is thy portion in this life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun.” 

This passage teaches that marriage is a gift given by GOD in the midst of life's labor. Life under the sun is often filled with toil, trials, and uncertainty. Yet GOD grants a companion so that joy may exist even while we journey through a fallen world. Marriage becomes a sacred partnership where two souls learn patience, humility, forgiveness, and endurance. 

The phrase “Live joyfully” reveals that appreciation must be intentional. Joy in marriage does not come merely from emotions but from recognizing GOD'S hand in the union. When a husband and wife see their marriage as a gift from GOD, they treat each other with reverence and gratitude. 

Foundational Text 2 — Ecclesiastes 9:10 (KJV) 

“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” 

This verse reminds us that life is short and uncertain. Opportunities to love, forgive, encourage, and support one another will not last forever. Marriage should be lived with wholehearted devotion because the time we share together is limited. Arguments, pride, and stubbornness steal precious moments that cannot be reclaimed.

Time Is Short 

We know not the evil nor the good that may come before us. There may come a day of separation through circumstance, distance, or even death. Because of this truth, the present moment becomes sacred. Couples should cherish each other during both the testing moments and the joyful seasons. 

Tests in marriage reveal character. They expose impatience, pride, and selfishness, yet they also become tools GOD uses to shape both husband and wife into the likeness of CHRIST. When both endure together, marriage becomes a school of salvation where hearts are refined and purified. 

Marriage as a Gift From GOD 

James 1:17 (KJV) declares: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” 

A marriage that is truly from GOD is not built merely on attraction or convenience. It is built upon shared surrender to the will of GOD. When CHRIST stands at the center of the home, both husband and wife become instruments of grace toward one another. 

Additional Biblical Foundations 

• Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 teaches that two are better than one and that a threefold cord is not quickly broken. When GOD becomes the third cord in marriage, strength and unity increase beyond human ability. 

• Colossians 3:13-14 instructs believers to forgive one another and above all things to put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. Marriage thrives when forgiveness is practiced daily. 

• Ephesians 5:25 calls husbands to love their wives as CHRIST loved the church and gave Himself for it. This type of love is sacrificial and redemptive. 

• 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 describes the character of true love: patient, kind, humble, and enduring. These virtues transform a marriage from a simple relationship into a reflection of heaven's principles. 

Encouragement for Married Couples and Those Preparing for Marriage

• Do not waste time in constant conflict, criticism, or prideful arguments.

• Learn to appreciate the moments GOD grants.

• Laugh together. Pray together. Grow together.

• Allow the trials of life to refine your love rather than destroy it. 

Marriage is not merely for happiness. It is for sanctification. It is a sacred journey where two

people help lead one another closer to GOD and toward eternal life. When a couple walks with CHRIST, their union becomes a testimony that GOD'S grace can transform hearts. 

Closing Prayer 

Heavenly Father, 

We thank You for the gift of marriage and companionship. Teach husbands and wives to cherish one another as sacred gifts from Your hand. Remove pride, bitterness, and selfishness from every home. Fill marriages with patience, forgiveness, and humility. Help couples endure both the trials and the joys of life together. May every marriage that is formed under Your guidance become a pathway of salvation and a testimony of Your love. Through JESUS CHRIST we pray. Amen.