Pastor Paul Odai Laryea, the IT Manager of The Church of Pentecost and Resident Minister of Danquah Worship Centre in La Area, has stressed the importance of preserving the structural integrity of marriages.
Delivering a message titled, “Guard the Pillars of your Marriage, anchored Submission and Love,” during a marriage ceremony held at the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC) Kokomlemle, Accra, on February 17, 2024, Pastor Laryea referred to Ephesians 5:21, 23, 24-27 and Judges 16:26-29, and encouraged couples to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
He likened the story of Samson pulling down the Philistine pillars to the two pillars of marriage – Submission and Love.
Highlighting the divine significance of these pillars, Pastor Laryea stressed that adherence to God’s guidance is essential for the success of any marriage. He cautioned against cultural differences that might lead to clashes, emphasising the supremacy of God’s word in marital relationships.
Addressing misconceptions about submission, Pastor Laryea rejected the idea that submission is linked solely to a woman’s societal status, asserting that it extends to women in various positions. He emphasised that the husband being the head of the family does not equate to being a boss but rather entails roles designed by God for marital harmony.
He further urged husbands to emulate Christ’s love for the Church, emphasising the need for sacrificial and divine love. He cited 1 Corinthians 13 as a guide for husbands to apply the qualities of love in their marriages.
Offering practical advice, he encouraged couples to treat each other with respect, pray together, remember their vows, and find joy in each other’s company. He highlighted the importance of maintaining transparency, urging couples to share passwords and avoid threats in marital relationships.
In conclusion, Pastor Paul Laryea implored couples to fortify their unions against external threats, ensuring that the pillars of Submission and Love stand strong, echoing the belief that no metaphorical Samson can topple their marriage foundations.
PENTECOST NEWS