Celebrate the Difference

Sermon OverviewScripture Passage: Genesis 2:19There is no sweeter, deeper, more wonderful companionship than that of a husband and wife. In Genesis 2, we first see God’s divine, unique design of male and female. These differences between us should not divide us; rather they unite us.Adrian Rogers says, “God made us different that He might make us one in marriage.” By understanding our roles, we can celebrate the differences between us.Genesis 2:18 says, “And the Lord God said, ‘It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.’” Even Adam, who had face-to-face fellowship with God, was still incomplete and in need of a companion. And though he was surrounded by all sorts of creatures in paradise, God knew Adam needed someone like himself.There are general differences between men and women designed to complement each other. God gave Eve to Adam to make up for what was lacking in Adam’s nature, and vice versa. These differences are not necessarily strengths and weaknesses. Rather, they are traits to contribute to the partnership.The Beauty and the Beast.God made man physically stronger, to provide and protect, while He made women to give and nurture life. Being physically weaker does not make women inferior; rather, her delicacy is her strength.The Tortoise and the Hare.Men may have more energy for the moment, but women are designed to endure longer.The Romantic and the Mechanic.By nature, men are motivated by maintenance. On the other hand, women are relational and long for romance.The Radar and the Computer.We process information differently because we look at things differently. Generally speaking, men tend to be logical, analytical, and factual, while women factor in details, emotions, and context.The Code Speaker and the Reporter.Women use language to express their emotions, while men use language to dispense facts.The Lover and the Achiever.The deepest need of a woman is to be loved, while a man’s deepest need is to be respected. (See Ephesians 5:33.)As we come to understand the innate differences between men and women, we can better love and encourage each other in our marriages, honoring God by how we treat our spouses.Apply it to your lifeIf you are married, take time to celebrate the definite differences between you and your spouse, and see how you can use your marriage to glorify God.