Whole Marriages in a Broken World: God’s Design for a Healthy Marriage by Gary Inrig (Good, 1996, Pbk, 222 pages, Discovery House)

Whole Marriages in a Broken World: God’s Design for a Healthy Marriage by Gary Inrig is a valuable resource for couples seeking to build strong, lasting marriages. In this book, Inrig draws upon biblical stories to illustrate God’s design for healthy marriages. Here are some key points:

1. Covenant Commitment: The book emphasizes the importance of covenant commitment—the “glue” that holds marriages together. A strong commitment to one another, rooted in God’s Word, is essential.

2. Communication: Effective communication is vital for any marriage. Inrig discusses the role of communication in maintaining a healthy relationship and resolving conflicts.

3. Forgiveness: The freedom of forgiveness is explored. Marriages thrive when spouses extend grace and forgiveness to each other, just as God forgives us.

4. Servanthood: Sacrificial love and servanthood are essential components of a successful marriage. Putting your spouse’s needs before your own fosters a thriving relationship.

5. Marital Sex: The book acknowledges the God-given blessing of marital intimacy. A healthy sexual relationship within marriage contributes to overall satisfaction.

Remember that while cultural challenges may threaten marriages, hope remains through Christ. Through His guidance, couples can experience whole marriages even in a broken world. Gary Inrig, the author, draws from Biblical wisdom and his own thirty-year marriage to provide practical tools for couples seeking to reach their God-given potential together.