Ephesians 5:23

For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself {being} the Savior of the body.

     God uses marriage as a simile when comparing the relationship of the church to Jesus. This association is a powerful one and carries deep meaning. God intentionally used the deepest and strongest relationship between any two beings. The closeness of the relationship allows us to learn more about how our relationship with God should be. First of all, we know that marriage was designed to be intimate. The bond that we share with God should be intimate as well. Some people prefer to keep God at a distance, but Psalm 139 tells us the great joy of having God nearby.

      We also see that marriage incorporates many facets of love. One is agape love, which means to act in the best interest of the other party. This is not based on feelings, but is instead defined by actions. We need to be a servant to the other person even when we do not feel like it. Without this love, marriages would fail, because emotions can be fleeting. When it comes to our relationship with God, it is also important that we obey Him even when we do not feel like it. Agape love honors God even when we would rather be selfish and honor ourselves.

     Despite the fact that all marriages need to be built on agape love, it is also good for the to have phileo (fondness) love. This love enjoys the company of the other person, desires to be around them and admires their qualities. Again, this cannot be the basis of a relationship, but God intended for it to be a part of the marriage. He also desires it in our relationship with Him. We must always serve Him as Lord, despite our feelings. Yet God desires to be cherished like a spouse cherishes their beloved, or a child their parent. God wants a full and fulfilling relationship with each and everyone of us.

For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself {being} the Savior of the body.