November 1

Matthew 19; Mark 10
Jesus addresses the sanctity of marriage.  Many in that day, as in our own time, failed to understand the importance of their marriage vows.  Divorce was not only an option, it was often the first option.  God feels so strongly about this subject that He modeled how it should be.  He married Israel.  Even though she was unfaithful, He continued to honor the marriage covenant He has established with her.  It was only after multiple episodes of Israel’s unfaithfulness, and her unrepentant spirit, that He finally decided to divorce her.  Divorce was not the first, nor the second, third, fourth . . . option, it was the last option.  And, it only happened because she had broken the marriage bond with her repeated unfaithfulness.  This demonstrates God’s feelings toward the marriage covenant.  It should never be taken lightly.  Divorce is to be avoided, only taken when all else has failed.