God's Design for Relationships: Marriage, Singleness, and Children

Devotional

Day 1: God’s Design for Marriage—Unity and Permanence

Marriage is not a human invention but a divine institution, established by God from the very beginning as a union between one man and one woman. Jesus reminds us that marriage is meant to be a lifelong covenant, where two become one flesh, joined together by God Himself. When we view marriage through this lens, we see that it is not about personal fulfillment or convenience, but about selfless love, commitment, and reflecting God’s faithfulness. If we take to heart God’s original design, divorce becomes less of an option, and our focus shifts to nurturing and strengthening the bond we share with our spouse. [35:10]

Matthew 19:4-6 (ESV)
He answered, “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

Reflection: In what ways can you intentionally invest in your marriage (or support the marriages around you) to reflect God’s design for unity and faithfulness today?

Day 2: The Hardness of Heart—The Root of Broken Relationships

Divorce was never part of God’s original plan, but because of the hardness of human hearts, it became a concession. When hearts become callous, unforgiving, and self-focused, relationships suffer and break apart. Jesus teaches that the root of most divorces is not external circumstances, but the unwillingness to forgive, to let go of past wrongs, and to serve one another selflessly. True marital health requires humility, daily forgiveness, and a commitment to making your spouse better because of your presence in their life. [38:35]

Matthew 19:7-8 (ESV)
They said to him, “Why then did Moses command one to give a certificate of divorce and to send her away?” He said to them, “Because of your hardness of heart Moses allowed you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so.”

Reflection: Is there a place in your heart where unforgiveness or selfishness is hardening your relationships? What step can you take today to soften your heart and extend grace?

Day 3: Faithfulness and Purity—God’s Standard for Marriage and Singleness

Jesus sets a high standard for faithfulness in marriage, teaching that sexual immorality is the only legitimate reason for divorce. He also affirms the value of celibacy for those called to it, emphasizing that both marriage and singleness are gifts from God, to be lived out in purity and devotion. Whether married or single, God calls His people to honor Him with their bodies and relationships, resisting the pull of culture and personal desire in favor of His good design. [43:26]

Matthew 19:9-12 (ESV)
“And I say to you: whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery.” The disciples said to him, “If such is the case of a man with his wife, it is better not to marry.” But he said to them, “Not everyone can receive this saying, but only those to whom it is given. For there are eunuchs who have been so from birth, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Let the one who is able to receive this receive it.”

Reflection: If you are married, how can you guard your relationship against unfaithfulness? If you are single, what does it look like for you to honor God with your body and your choices today?

Day 4: Welcoming and Blessing Children—The Heart of Christ

Jesus never saw children as an inconvenience or a bother; instead, He welcomed them, blessed them, and held them up as examples of the kind of faith that pleases God. In a world where children are often neglected or overlooked, Christ calls parents, grandparents, and the church to nurture, instruct, and pray over the next generation. Every child needs loving touch, prayer, welcome, and blessing from the adults in their lives, and it is our sacred responsibility to provide these, pointing them to Jesus by our example and care. [57:28]

Matthew 19:13-15 (ESV)
Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people, but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” And he laid his hands on them and went away.

Reflection: What is one practical way you can intentionally bless, encourage, or pray over a child in your life or church this week?

Day 5: Living Out God’s Calling—Faithfulness in Every Season

Whether you are married, single, or a parent, God has entrusted you with a unique calling and responsibility. You are called to honor Him in your relationships, to serve and forgive, to nurture and instruct, and to live with integrity and faith. Even when circumstances are difficult or not what you expected, God invites you to trust Him, to focus on serving Him, and to make the most of the opportunities He has given you. When you live for Christ and honor Him with your decisions, your life will impact those around you—especially the next generation. [01:05:25]

Colossians 3:17 (ESV)
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Reflection: In your current season of life, what is one area where you can more fully honor God with your choices and influence those around you for Christ?

Sermon Summary

Today’s teaching centered on three interconnected themes that Jesus addressed: divorce, celibacy, and little children. These topics, though seemingly disparate, are woven together by the heart of God’s design for human relationships and the call to live according to His purposes.

Beginning with the Lord’s Supper, we remembered Christ’s sacrifice and the new covenant established in His blood. This act of remembrance sets the tone for how we approach all of life’s relationships—with humility, gratitude, and a desire to honor God’s intentions.

Turning to the subject of marriage and divorce, we see that Jesus was confronted by the Pharisees, who sought to trap Him in a debate about the grounds for divorce. Rather than getting entangled in their legalistic arguments, Jesus pointed them back to Genesis, to God’s original design: marriage as a lifelong union between one man and one woman. He emphasized that what God has joined together, no one should separate. The only exception Jesus gave for divorce was sexual immorality, highlighting the seriousness of marital faithfulness and the devastating impact of betrayal. Yet, He also acknowledged the reality of human hardness of heart, which leads to brokenness and the need for forgiveness. Marriage, then, is not about self-fulfillment, but about serving and building up one’s spouse, forgiving often, and reflecting God’s covenant love.

Jesus’ teaching on celibacy followed naturally. Not everyone is called to marriage, and some are called to a life of singleness for the sake of the kingdom. This is not a lesser calling, but a unique opportunity to serve God with undivided devotion. Whether by circumstance or by choice, those who remain single are invited to find their fulfillment in Christ and His purposes.

Finally, Jesus welcomed little children, blessing them and affirming their place in the kingdom of God. In a culture that often overlooks or neglects children, Jesus demonstrated their value and the importance of nurturing and instructing them in the faith. Parents and grandparents are called to be intentional in loving, praying for, and blessing their children, recognizing that the way we treat the youngest among us reflects our understanding of God’s heart.

In all these areas—marriage, singleness, and parenting—the call is to live with integrity, selflessness, and a deep commitment to God’s design, trusting that His ways lead to flourishing and blessing.

Key Takeaways

1. God’s Design for Marriage Is Rooted in Creation, Not Culture Jesus redirects the conversation about divorce away from legal loopholes and back to Genesis, reminding us that marriage is a sacred, lifelong covenant between a man and a woman. This foundation challenges us to resist the shifting standards of society and to honor God’s original intent, which is for unity, faithfulness, and mutual self-giving. When we start with God’s design, divorce becomes a last resort, not an easy escape. [32:50]
2. The Hardness of Heart Is the Root of Marital Breakdown Jesus explains that divorce was permitted because of the hardness of human hearts, not because it was ever God’s desire. This hardness manifests as unforgiveness, selfishness, and keeping records of wrongs. True marital health requires daily acts of forgiveness and a commitment to serve one another, recognizing that our sinful nature must be continually surrendered to Christ. [38:35]
3. Celibacy Is a Gift and a Calling, Not a Deficiency Jesus affirms that some are called to celibacy, whether by birth, circumstance, or voluntary choice for the sake of God’s kingdom. This path allows for undistracted devotion to the Lord and is to be embraced by those to whom it is given. Rather than viewing singleness as a lack, it should be seen as a unique opportunity to serve God wholeheartedly and to trust Him with one’s desires and future. [49:07]
4. Children Are a Blessing and a Sacred Trust Jesus’ embrace of little children reveals their immense value in God’s eyes. Parents and grandparents are entrusted with the responsibility to nurture, instruct, and bless their children, both physically and spiritually. The way we prioritize, pray for, and interact with our children shapes their faith and reflects our own relationship with God. [57:28]
5. Faithfulness in Relationships Reflects Our Faithfulness to God Whether in marriage, singleness, or parenting, our approach to relationships is a direct expression of our walk with Christ. We are called to put to death selfishness, to forgive generously, and to seek the good of others above our own. In doing so, we honor God, build strong families and communities, and provide a living testimony of the gospel’s power to transform lives. [62:23]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[03:30] - Communion: Remembering Christ’s Sacrifice
[06:54] - Gratitude for Service and Church Family
[28:14] - The Reality of Divorce in Our Culture
[29:49] - Celibacy and God’s Design for Sexuality
[31:26] - Introduction to Jesus’ Teachings on Relationships
[32:50] - Jesus Confronts the Pharisees on Divorce
[38:35] - The Hardness of Heart and Forgiveness in Marriage
[43:26] - Jesus’ Standard: Sexual Immorality as Grounds for Divorce
[45:31] - The Disciples’ Response and the Call to Celibacy
[46:11] - Three Types of Celibacy Explained
[49:07] - Singleness for the Kingdom of Heaven
[49:51] - Jesus Welcomes and Blesses Little Children
[57:28] - The Role of Parents and Grandparents in Blessing Children
[62:23] - Closing Prayer and Challenge

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

Matthew 19:1-15 — (Jesus teaches about divorce, celibacy, and welcomes little children)
- Genesis 2:18-24
(God’s original design for marriage)
- 1 Corinthians 7:7-9
(Paul’s teaching on singleness and marriage)

Observation Questions

When the Pharisees questioned Jesus about divorce, what Old Testament passage were they referencing, and how did Jesus respond? ([32:50])
According to Jesus, what is the only valid reason for divorce? ([43:26])
What three types of celibacy (eunuchs) did Jesus mention, and what do they mean? ([46:11])
How did Jesus react when the disciples tried to keep children away from Him, and what did He do for the children? ([49:51])

Interpretation Questions

Why did Jesus point the Pharisees back to Genesis instead of debating the details of Deuteronomy regarding divorce? What does this reveal about God’s view of marriage? ([32:50])
Jesus said that Moses permitted divorce because of the “hardness of your hearts.” What does this phrase mean, and how does it relate to the breakdown of relationships today? ([38:35])
How does Jesus’ teaching on celibacy challenge the idea that singleness is a lesser calling than marriage? ([49:07])
What does Jesus’ blessing of the children teach us about the value of children in God’s kingdom and our responsibility toward them? ([49:51])

Application Questions

The sermon said, “Marriage is not about self-fulfillment, but about serving and building up one’s spouse, forgiving often, and reflecting God’s covenant love.” In what ways do you find it difficult to put your spouse’s needs above your own? What is one practical step you can take this week to serve your spouse or, if single, to serve others in your life? ([38:35])
Jesus taught that the only exception for divorce is sexual immorality. How does this standard challenge the way our culture views marriage and divorce? Have you ever been tempted to look for “loopholes” in God’s commands? How can you resist that temptation? ([43:26])
The sermon described celibacy as a gift and a calling, not a deficiency. If you are single, do you see your singleness as a burden or as an opportunity? How can you use your current season of life to serve God more fully? If you are married, how can you support and encourage single friends in your church? ([49:07])
Jesus welcomed and blessed little children, showing their value. How do you (or your family) intentionally make children feel welcomed, loved, and prayed for? Is there a specific way you can bless a child in your life this week? ([57:28])
The sermon warned about the dangers of neglecting children, especially because of distractions like cell phones. Are there habits or distractions in your life that keep you from being present with your children or younger family members? What is one change you can make to be more intentional? ([57:28])
The “hardness of heart” was described as unforgiveness, selfishness, and keeping records of wrongs. Is there someone in your family or close relationships you need to forgive or ask forgiveness from? What is stopping you, and how can you take a step toward reconciliation this week? ([38:35])
The sermon ended with a challenge to “live for Christ, enjoy your faith, honor God with all your decisions, and your children will be impacted.” What is one decision you need to make this week to better align your relationships with God’s design? ([01:02:23])

Sermon Clips

What does divorce, celibacy, and little children have in common? Well, Jesus spoke about all three in our text today. And so because Jesus spoke about all three, we're going to be looking at these three ideas, divorce, celibacy, and little children. [00:28:14]

I tell people all the time when I do premarital counseling, I say the best chances for you to stay married is to stay married to the first person you married. That's your best chances. [00:28:58]

A lot of Christians are not following God's designs, but the dictates of their own hearts. I have read that the percentage of Christians who remain virgins until marriage is approximately 20%. That means that 80 % are doing their own thing, not following God's design for their lives. [00:30:14]

May God protect our children. I look out and I see precious little ones in our service this morning, over here, over here, right here, right here, right there. God protect our children. Parents, protect your kids. Grandparents, protect your grandchildren. [00:31:22]

Jesus takes them back to Genesis he takes them back to the beginning and that's where we must start we must start in the beginning we must start with the book of Genesis for in Genesis we find out that God created marriage between a man and a woman there's only two sexes period there's a man and a woman God designed it that way God created marriage he established it and if we would look at God's design for marriage there would be less divorce in our society if people would just look at the teachings of Christ. [00:36:52]

If we take to heart what we read in Genesis divorce isn't an option if we take to heart what we read in Genesis the Pharisees want to focus on Moses' teaching. [00:38:15]

Jesus said it's because of the hardness of man's heart Moses permitted you to divorce your wives and I would submit to you that it is the hard hearts of man that is the reason for most divorces today man's heart becomes callous man's heart becomes hard people are not good forgivers we keep records of wrongs we don't forgive we we we we become historical anytime we argue we bring up all the past. [00:39:46]

Marriage is a union of two forgivers and it means sometimes daily you have to forgive and forgive and forgive marriages go south from couples hold grudges our sinful nature is extremely selfish and in our selfishness we don't often think of the needs of our spouse no we focus in on our own needs our own wants our own desires and if we make marriage about our own needs we will end up divorced. [00:40:40]

If you think your marriage is about you you're thinking wrong you got married to make the person you're married to a better person a better person are they better because you are in their life see that's the important thing to remember this morning. [00:41:16]

We live in a world where marriage and divorce is as common as eating dinner or sleeping. People get married and are divorced shortly thereafter. In my mind, I can think of probably a handful, maybe two handfuls of people that made it less than a year. [00:42:15]

Jesus said, from the beginning, it was not so. From the beginning, it was not so. Now, there are reasons for a man and a woman to divorce. And Jesus provides one reason in our text. Look at verse 9. And I say to you, Whoever divorces his wife except for sexual immorality and marries another commits adultery, and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery. [00:43:15]

Not all people accept the teachings of Jesus Christ. Especially when it comes to marriage and divorce and remarriage. Everybody has their take on what Jesus said. We create our own theological foundation for marriage and divorce and remarriage. [00:46:30]

Scripture teaches that if it is possible that a man should stay single so that he could keep his focus on the Lord and serve the Lord. That's the reason for celibacy. You don't have the responsibility of caring for a wife, of caring for children. No, your focus can be on serving the Lord. [00:48:55]

If you can live a celibate life live celibate if you cannot live a celibate life get married get married. [00:50:24]

Jesus said let the little children come to me and do not forbid them for such is the kingdom of heaven I find it very interesting that Jesus would have this encounter with little children right after he talked about marriage divorce remarriage and celibacy then he would have this encounter with little children. [00:51:56]

Christian parents I beg of you not to neglect your children please don't allow your cell phones to become so important to you that your children over here are being neglected and I see that happening and a lot of families today moms and dads are so connected to their cell phone that they don't even hear their children talking to them. [00:53:28]

If God has given you the responsibility to raise your children he wants you to raise them in in the nurture and the admonition of the Lord nurture means to care for admonition means to give instruction your kids need instruction they need instructions about how to behave in other people's homes they need instructions about how to sit in church they need instructions about how not to run in front of older people that are trying to make their way out of a building we need to nurture our kids to care for them and we need to instruct them. [00:54:34]

Please never allow anything in your life to keep a child from wanting to follow Jesus Christ that means dads you need to be a godly example to your children on Father's Day I'm gonna talk about being an influencer as a dad influencing your kids. [00:55:51]

Every child needs a physical touch every child needs to be prayed over every child needs to know they are welcomed in your presence every child needs loving hands placed upon them loving hands and then every child needs a blessing from their parents a blessing and if you are a parent you have been chosen by God for the child that is in your life play your role well play your role well. [00:58:50]

If you have been divorced you can't change it but if you are married you can do everything to make your marriage work and thrive for only you and your spouse can prevent divorce do all that you can to have a godly marriage put to death selfishness and seek to serve your spouse forgive one another often forgive. [00:59:38]

Enjoy your children they are only small for a short time do everything that you can to give them an ample opportunity to come to faith in Jesus Christ live for Christ enjoy your faith honor God with all your decisions and your children will be impacted and that is Jesus' take on divorce celibacy and little children. [01:01:02]

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