In a recent reflection, Pastor Marcel Balootje drew from Scripture to address the growing issues in modern relationships and marriages. Referencing Genesis 2:24-25, he emphasized God’s design for marriage: unity, intimacy, and openness without shame.
According to Pastor Balootje, many couples today live together without true love or commitment, driven instead by financial benefits, sexual convenience, or manipulation. “Some people live with their partner not out of love, but because of what they gain from them,” he said. Others, he noted, avoid marriage altogether or use the relationship as emotional leverage.
The pastor warns that pride has infiltrated relationships since sin entered the world (Genesis 3:6-7), and continues to wreak havoc. It blocks communication and sexual intimacy, which are central to a healthy marriage as taught in 1 Corinthians 7:3-5. Pride also affects parenting. When children see constant conflict, they become confused about respect and obedience—but witnessing love and unity teaches them honor (Ephesians 6:1-4).
Pastor Balootje urges couples to leave behind their past ties—as stated in Scripture—and commit fully to each other, guarding their emotional and physical intimacy from outside interference. “Marriage is about discovering the treasures of love together,” he said, “but pride, unforgiveness, and financial power games distort that treasure.”
He called on both husbands and wives to care for themselves physically and emotionally—not for vanity, but to remain attractive to one another and honor the bond they share. He warned against immodesty that disrespects the marital relationship, likening it to leaving a precious diamond lying on the ground.
“Pride is never from God,” Pastor Balootje concluded. “It leads to division and, eventually, divorce. Instead, we must seek forgiveness, compassion, and unity, as the Bible commands in Colossians 3, Ephesians 4, and Matthew 6.”
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