We often need to look no further than to the words of
the Holy Scripture when we seek guidance, wisdom or advice. The Bible
repeatedly mentions and underlines traditional Orthodox Christian values in
regards to family. Therefore, it is necessary to once again draw inspiration
from the word of God, as a reminder of what true Christian love in marriage is
and attempt to understand God’s providence when it comes to family. Here are
just a few quotes from the Holy Scripture in regards to family along with a few icons of families who have been glorified by God and have become saints as well as family decorative images:
“Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against
them.” (Colossians 3, 19)
“For the husband is the head of the wife, even as
Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body.” (Ephesians
5, 23)
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Conception of Blessed Virgin Mary |
“The wife has not power of her own body, but the
husband: and likewise also the husband has not power of his own body, but the
wife.” (1 Corinthians 7, 4)
“But I would have you know, that the head of every man
is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is
god.” (1Corinthians 11, 3)
“For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but
nourishes and cherishes it, even as the lord the church.” (Ephesians 5, 28)
“Likewise, you husbands, dwell with them according to
knowledge, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being
heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.” 1 Peter 3, 7
“A worthy wife brings joy to her husband, peaceful and
full is his life. a good wife is a generous gift bestowed upon him who fears
the lord” (Sirach 26, 2-3)
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Wedding Stained Glass Panel |
“Therefore as the church is subject to Christ, so let
the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.” (Ephesians 5, 24)
“…as the sun when it ariseth in the high heaven; so is
the beauty of a good wife in the ordering of her house.” (Sirach 26, 16)
“…likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own
husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won
by the conversation of the wives;” (1 Peter 3,1)
“…whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and
obtaineth favour of the lord.” (Proverbs 18-22)
“A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she
that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.” (Proverbs 12,4)
“Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish
plucketh it down with her hands.” (Proverbs 14, 1)
“A gracious woman retaineth honor: and strong men
retain riches.” (Proverbs 11, 15)
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