x
Faith Family Relationships

The Role of Independence in a Faith-Filled Marriage

 

According to research from the University of Connecticut, economic dependency on a spouse leads to higher odds of committing adultery. This surprising information goes along with the idea of “biting the hand that feeds you,” so to speak, and paints the marital relationship as one that may need more independence than many couples realize. Independence in a Christian marriage won’t pull you and your spouse apart but, rather, bring you closer together.

 

What Does the Bible Say About Marriage?

 

The Bible mentions marriage in many books and chapters, from Genesis 1:28 (“Be fruitful and multiply”) through to the end of the New Testament. The Bible describes wives as “companions” (Malachi 2:14-15) and marriage as a “unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:2-3). It calls husbands and wives partners and helpmates. Yet it does not prohibit independence in a strong, faithful marriage.

 

A Christian marriage may be based on spiritual dependence, leaning on one another during your walk with Christ. Using one another’s help to become more in tune with your spirituality and love for the Lord is perfectly healthy in a Christian marriage. However, self-possession and financial independence can make your bond even stronger. Financial dependence can make one spouse resent the other, especially when the husband is dependent on the wife.

 

Being Your Own Person

 

When both partners contribute equally to a marriage in all things, they can each enjoy independence, self-confidence, and freedom. A high-functioning relationship is one that fulfills the key aspects of your life, giving you and your spouse trust in one another as co-partners in your marriage. Expressing your psychological independence, making your own money, and being your own person can go a long way toward facilitating an easy, enjoyable, and durable union.

Leave a Comment