Like many other things in our society, marriages that fail receive the most publicity. Millions of married folks in our world are living happy and exemplary lives but no one talks about them.

True, a difference exists between marriage as it is and marriage as it ought to be. Of course, that is the difference between all moral and ethical matters. Morals are what is and ethics are what ought to be. Marriage entered into with recognition of certain principles, especially biblical principles, creates one of life’s happiest potentials. We enter marriage for better—not for worse!

A “better” marriage needs a blending of the physical, mental and emotional factors of life. It is not to be entered into lightly and certainly not on physical attraction alone. The “best” marriage flourishes with a harmony of ideals and a place to cradle personality, which leads to the commitment of exclusive relationship and common growth.

Dr. Gary Crawford, pastor of Westside Baptist Church in Gainesville for over 26 years, recently wrote a book, In Celebration of Love, Marriage and Sex, primarily as an exposition of the Song of Solomon. I was privileged to read the draft before its publishing and endorse the book:

This is a good study for all adult family members. Dr. Crawford approaches the Song of Solomon with the same aggressive communication style that characterizes his preaching and teaching ministry. He approaches the sexual realities of marriage with openness and insight. This most vital area of marriage is approached at times in a confronting mode; at other times reflection dominates the passage. Gary Crawford is an excellent wordsmith and has hammered the entire book on the anvil of experience. It is a good “read.”

This is an excellent book for husbands and wives to study together and a valuable tool to give to young people in your church, especially those considering marriage.

No one can question that we should do everything within our influence to get couples to try marriage before divorce!

The marriage relationship is the most sacred and exclusive relationship of life. Establishing expectations of the relationship by free and mutual consent will enhance a thriving love that will not die with age.

I commend Gary’s book to you. It is worthy of your time.