Leave and Cleave

Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother, and cleave to his wife; and they shall become one flesh. Gen 2:24

From the outset, God established marriage as a covenant between a man and a woman. The command to leave and cleave holds both relational and spiritual importance. Leaving does not mean rejecting or abandoning your biological family; rather, it means acknowledging that your primary loyalty now belongs to your spouse. By doing so, you create a new, God-focused family unit that becomes the priority in your life.

To cleave means to remain strongly bonded to your spouse in love, devotion, and unity. Marriage extends beyond just a physical connection; it encompasses emotional, relational, and spiritual dimensions. When partners cleave to each other, they imitate Christ’s sacrificial and devoted love for His church. By leaving and cleaving, couples form a covenant of oneness—“one flesh”—symbolizing unity of heart, purpose, and destiny. This bond makes spouses each other’s closest companion, confidant, and supporter, creating a primary human relationship that God designed and blessed.

Husbands, marriage calls you to lead with love and humility. Ephesians 5:25 urges husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church—sacrificially and selflessly. This involves being spiritually present: pray with and for your wife, read Scripture together, and prioritize growing in faith together. Patience and understanding are vital, as marriage is a journey of listening, forgiving, and supporting each other in love (Colossians 3:13). Honest and open communication builds intimacy and trust. Respecting and honoring your wife in all aspects of life aligns with God’s plan and blessing for your marriage.

Wives, marriage is a partnership based on respect, love, and grace. Ephesians 5:33 underscores the importance of respecting your husband while supporting his leadership in a Christ-centered household. Developing a gentle and quiet spirit (1 Peter 3:4) showcases inner beauty rooted in faith, not passivity. Praying for your husband’s spiritual growth, protection, and wisdom is essential for strengthening both your relationship and your walk with God. Loving, patient communication encourages mutual understanding, and fostering growth—spiritual, emotional, and relational—creates a home that reflects Christ’s love for His church.

Your shepherd,

Pastor Mark