Man was created as the crown of creation, fashioned in the image of the Creator to rule over the rest of creation. As stated in Genesis 1:26, God gave humanity dominion over all living things:
‘…have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth’
In His divine wisdom, God recognized that it was not good for man to be alone. Thus, He created the female to be a companion to man. Malachi 2:15-16 highlights the importance of marriage, emphasizing that through it, godly offspring can be produced. God also despises divorce, and Jesus affirmed that what God has joined together should not be separated by anyone.
Given the seriousness with which God regards marriage, one might conclude that marriage is like an ark—an institution created to preserve certain values that could otherwise be lost, much like Noah’s ark was designed for preservation. This metaphor is significant because marriage, like the ark, offers salvation, preservation, protection, and survival during challenging times.
Salvation and Preservation.
In the same way Noah’s righteousness allowed him and his family to be spared from the destruction that befell the earth, marriage can protect the husband, wife, and children from the corruption and troubles in the world. When marriage breaks down, the loneliness, temptations, and emotional challenges faced by both partners reflect the dangers that the marriage was meant to shield them from. Research shows that many individuals who go astray in society come from dysfunctional homes, underscoring that marriage is indeed an ark—preserving its members from external corruption.
Endurance in Times of Challenge.
The occupants of Noah’s ark must have faced great discomfort during the flood, enduring the storms and uncertainty of the world outside. Yet, the ark provided safety. Similarly, marriage is not always smooth sailing. It requires endurance to overcome the inevitable challenges that come with it. Many marriages end because the partners fail to endure through tough times. The question is, can you endure when the challenges of life threaten your home? Even for children, can you endure the discipline of your parents, knowing that it will yield the peaceful fruit of righteousness in due time, as Hebrews 12:11 teaches us?
Commitment.
The construction and journey of the ark demonstrated Noah and his family’s commitment to God’s covenant. Without commitment, the ark’s purpose would have been lost. Similarly, the success of a marriage requires unwavering commitment to your marital vows. It is this commitment that enables partners to endure difficulties and remain steadfast in their marital journey.
Shelter for Growth and Rebuilding.
The ark not only saved Noah and his family but also provided a foundation for a new world after the flood. In a similar vein, marriage offers a space for personal growth and renewal. It creates an environment for transformation and the creation of a new life together, offering a fresh start and an opportunity for rebuilding.
A Place of Relevance in Each Other’s Lives.
Within the ark, Noah’s family would have had no one else but each other, making their relationships crucial to their survival. They had to rely on one another for emotional and practical support. In marriage, it is just the husband, wife, and children. Each family member must play a relevant role in the lives of the others. A father’s role impacts his wife and children, just as a wife’s role shapes the family dynamic. Marriage is, therefore, a journey of growth and discovery, where everyone’s contribution matters.
A Journey in the Will of God.
Noah’s building of the ark was a journey in the will of God, even though it seemed foolish to others. The idea of building an ark in preparation for a flood that had never been seen before appeared nonsensical. Likewise, many aspects of marriage may not make sense to others. Some men may question the idea of being “tied” to one woman for life, while others experience divorce because they cannot endure the tough moments in their spouse’s life. However, the will of God is clear: we must remain faithful to one another in marriage and endure through the lows, trusting in His plan for us.
Conclusion.
Marriage, like Noah’s ark, is designed to preserve, protect, and sustain the family through life’s storms. It is a commitment to God’s covenant, an enduring journey, and a place of growth and relevance. Let us honor marriage as an ark—a safe haven for the soul in an ever-changing world.
Dr. Mike Oluniyi
