Why Is Marriage Declining?

In the Denver Post yesterday, there was a headline that read, “More In U.S. See Nuptials As Obsolete.”

Statistics like this break my heart, because I know it also breaks the heart of God.

The article goes on to state that 39% of Americans believe marriage is becoming a thing of the past.  According to their research, this percentage is continuing to rise at a steady rate.  Does that surprise you?  Probably not.  We know the Enemy tries to tear down anything God builds. 

So, I guess my question really should be… does it bother anyone but me?

Yes, I think we’d all agree that marriage is difficult.  It saddens me, however, that the corporate “we” not only thinks it’s becoming obsolete because of its challenges… but seems to be okay with it.

Look, I’m not sitting in a judgment seat.  I have been divorced, remarried and almost lost this marriage, too.  I know it is hard.  But, sometimes I struggle with the broadening views and acceptance of marriage and family.

There is a link between declining families and a declining society.  You can see it change with every passing year.  When the family breaks down… society follows.

Why is the desire for marriage diminishing?

• Did we see a horrible situation with our parent’s marriage and decided it’s not for us?
• Is it too hard to fight for it?
• Do we find life easier when all we have to worry about is ourselves?
• Have we been burned one too many times?
• Is it because we are now enlightened?
• Is it “just a silly piece of paper?”
• Are we commitment-phobic?
• Do we adopt society’s view on it?
• Are we gun-shy because we just got out of a bad one?

Whatever the reason, I hope we figure it out.

It’s interesting how marriage means different things to different people.  I know people who are divorced and still have a positive and hopeful outlook on marriage.  On the flip side, I know some that are married and hate every minute of it.  No two people would say the same thing.

Well, God authored marriage.  Have you ever wondered what He thinks about it?

This weekend, why not spend time finding out?  He has some very strong opinions on what it is… and what it is not.

Ok… below are some scriptures about marriage.  This list is not complete, so if you have some to add… comment to this post so others can read them, too.

• 1 Corinthians 7:1-5
• 2 Corinthians 6:14
• Genesis 2:18, 21-24
• 1 Peter 2:25-3:2, 3:7
• Genesis 1:26-28
• Proverbs 18:22
• Ephesians 5:22-33
• Colossians 3:18-19
• Hebrews 13:4

I’d love to hear how God spoke to you through this scripture dig.  If you’re bold enough, let me know.

Look, it’s not important if you are married or not or where life’s circumstances have left you.  What is important is that you keep the idea of a Godly marriage alive!

Our kids need to know it’s possible.  Our families need to know it’s valuable.  Our friends need to know it’s fixable.

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