DAILY TEXT, Tuesday, December 9, 2025. A triple cord is not easily broken (Eccl. 4:12).

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Tuesday, December 9, 2025

A triple cord is not easily broken (Eccl. 4:12).

If a husband and wife value their friendship with Jehovah, they will be willing to follow his counsel. In this way, they will avoid and overcome any problems that could cool their love. Furthermore, those who are friends of Jehovah strive to be like him and imitate his qualities. For example, they are kind and patient, and they know how to forgive. (Eph. 4:32-5:1) How could there not be love in such a marriage? A sister named Lena, who has been married for over 25 years, says: “How easy it is to love and respect a spiritual person!”

Let's look at an example from the Bible. Of all David's descendants, Jehovah chose Joseph and Mary to be the parents of the Messiah. Why did he choose them? Because they were very close friends of his, and he knew they would always put him first in their marriage.

How can husbands follow Joseph's example?

Joseph did not hesitate to follow Jehovah’s guidance, and that made him an excellent husband. On at least three occasions, God gave him instructions concerning his family. And he followed them immediately, even though it was not easy (Matt. 1:20, 24; 2:13-15, 19-21). Because he obeyed Jehovah, Joseph was able to protect and care for Mary. Surely that made Mary love and respect him even more.

Husbands, you can be like Joseph and seek Bible-based counsel to help you care for your family. When you put it into practice, even if it means making changes, you show that you love your wives. And, as a result, your marriage will be stronger. A sister in Vanuatu who has been married for over 20 years says: “When I see that my husband seeks Jehovah’s guidance and follows it, I respect him more. It helps me to feel secure and to trust his decisions.”

What can wives learn from Mary's example?

Mary was a friend of Jehovah. Her friendship with him and her faith did not depend on Joseph. She was very familiar with the Scriptures (see the study note on Luke 1:46). In addition, she made time for meditation (Luke 2:19, 51). Because Mary was a spiritual woman, she was an excellent wife. Many Christian women today strive to be like Mary.

Consider the example of Emiko. She relates: “When I was single, I had my own spiritual routine. But after we got married, my husband prayed for both of us and took care of the family’s spirituality. I realized that my faith depended on what my husband did. I knew that I had to do my part. It was my responsibility to strengthen my friendship with Jehovah. That is why I now make time to be alone so that I can pray to Jehovah, read the Scriptures, and meditate.” (Gal. 6:5) Wives, if you keep striving to strengthen your friendship with Jehovah, your husbands will have even more reason to love and commend you. (Prov. 31:30)

What can married couples learn from the example of Joseph and Mary?

Joseph and Mary also worked together to maintain a strong relationship with Jehovah. They knew how important it was to worship Jehovah as a family (Luke 2:22-24, 41; 4:16). No doubt it was difficult at times, especially as their family grew. But they managed. What a fine example for married couples! If you too have children, it can be quite a challenge to attend meetings and make time for family worship.

Furthermore, finding time to study and pray together as a married couple can be even more challenging. But remember, if you worship Jehovah together, your friendship with him will be strengthened, and you will feel closer to one another. So put your worship of Jehovah first.

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