👉🏾👉🏾👉🏾 The Causes of Marital Dissolution: A Lesson on the Perils that Threaten Holy #Matrimony
Beloved followers of the sacred teachings, let us approach this lesson with hearts open to wisdom and ears attuned to divine counsel. For marriage, a union consecrated by God, stands as a fortress against the tempests of life; yet many find their sacred bonds shattered. Why do these unions fail? What causes this holy covenant to be dissolved? With the light of scripture and the guidance of the Fathers, let us examine the roots of this grievous affliction.
1. The Temptation of the Enemy, the Devil
The adversary of mankind, the ancient serpent, prowls as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. The bonds of matrimony are no exception to his malice. He ensnares the flesh, whispers deception into hearts, and casts venomous doubts upon the minds of even the devout. As the Apostle Peter has warned us:
“Be sober-minded and watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)
Satan’s stratagem is subtle, yet ruinous. He fans the flames of lust, fuels discord, and sows strife in hearts that once burned with love. Even those who walk in the path of repentance may find themselves tempted and their marriage under siege.
2. The Weakness of the Self
Weakness of the heart, failure to cultivate a forgiving spirit, and the unchecked desires of the flesh lead many into peril. As the Apostle James has taught:
“Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am being tempted by God,’ for God cannot be tempted with evil, and He Himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire, when it has conceived, gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is fully grown, brings forth death.” (James 1:13-15)
Indeed, within the heart lies the root of many troubles. Desires unchecked turn to envy; envy begets strife; strife erupts into division. Couples must guard against self-centered longings and foster a spirit of self-sacrifice, lest their own hearts betray them.
“You desire and do not have; so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain; so you fight and quarrel. You do not have because you do not ask.” (James 4:1-3)
Neglect of prayer, praying with selfish intent, and failing to seek what is good rather than what is self-serving also contribute to the collapse of marriages.
3. The Distance Between Husband and Wife
Marriage is a union, a sacred bond in which two become one flesh (Ephesians 5:31). Distance, both physical and emotional, weakens this sacred union. When work or other obligations separate husband and wife for prolonged periods, temptation enters like an unguarded thief. The wind of division blows, sowing seeds of misunderstanding and isolation.
The wisdom of Ecclesiastes teaches us:
“If one falls, the other will lift him up. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!” (Ecclesiastes 4:10)
Physical separation can result in spiritual separation, wherein neither shares in the life and love of the other. Such an arrangement is perilous, for it denies the very essence of the marriage bond.
4. Rushing into Marriage Without True Knowledge of One Another
Foolish is the one who enters marriage hastily, without understanding the character of their spouse. When infatuation blinds the eyes, when passion overcomes wisdom, many find themselves lamenting, “I did not know, I did not understand.”
Though no man or woman is without fault, a fundamental knowledge of each other’s virtues and weaknesses is essential. Without it, trials arise, and the marriage stands upon a weak foundation, easily shattered by the storms of life.
5. Marrying Without Considering the Third Party
Marriage is not an isolated matter; it extends beyond the couple to the family, the Church, and future generations. Many fail to consider the responsibilities marriage brings:
The call to bear and raise children.
The need to honor and support parents.
The obligations towards extended family and community.
Continues 👇🏽