For the past few weeks I have been focused on "Becoming One" in the marital relationship. This Marital Moment will look at the last part of this lesson: The Delighting In Oneness. Genesis 2:24 states that "A man shall leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife and they shall be one flesh". God's design has not changed. He expects both husband and wife to work together in order to accomplish and enjoy oneness in their relationship. It is the most benefic-ial arrangement for the marriage. Let's look at four benefits of becoming and being one together. (1) The Benefit Of Accomplishment. The benefit of two people planning, working, pulling together, striving together is astounding. Team work pays great dividends. The mutually satisfying efforts of both wife and husband are immensely rewarding. They work together. Play together. Live together. Raise a family together. Grow old together. An interesting story was told about two strong horses that could individually pull 4,500 pounds each making a total of 9,000 pounds. However, when they were teamed together they could collectively pull 12,000 pounds. Working together in the home accomplishes far more than one partner ever could alone. (2) The Benefit Of A Mutually Satisfying Sexual Relationship. When you become one in all areas, the sexual relationship takes on a meaningful and joyful experience. Where there is the absence of oneness, this relationship is greatly hindered or completely stopped. The sexual side suffers. You s truggle to make it work and more than likely it is constantly disappointing. By fulfilling your obligation as a husband / wife you enhance this most intimate of relationships. Oneness creates satisfaction. Each one seeking to satisfy first the other, it always produces the greatest joy. (3) The Benefit Of Companionship. Oneness creates an unbreakable bond that enjoys the sunshine and weathers the storms of life. The Bible states that Adam lived 930 years (Gen. 5:5). I suppose that Eve lived almost that long if not longer. They enjoyed the companionship of each other for many years. They shared life with all its ups and downs. They went through some trying and difficult times together and still remained faithful (Gen. 3 & 4). The marriage survived. They were best friends. They looked out for each other. They helped each other overcome defeat, discouragement, despair, and they enjoyed the victorious times together. (4) The Benefits Of God's Bless-ings. In Genesis 1:22, 28, 2:3, and 5:2 we find that God pronounced His blessings on Adam and Eve. Whatever and whoever God blesses is blessed indeed. God honors a marriage that is operating according to His commands and precepts. When God sees a wife and husband who are living in harmony, love, trust, commitment, and godliness, then He bestows upon them His greatest and richest of blessings. He gives them His benefits, bountifulness, mercy and protection. Blessed is the marriage that honors God and "Becomes One" with each other.
