Couples across Nigeria are being encouraged to embrace biblical principles as the ultimate solution to the increasing number of marital crises. This urgent call was made by a seasoned marriage counsellor, Mr. Shola Faphounda, during a significant event in Akure.
Returning to God's Original Blueprint
The event was the 40th birthday celebration and book launch of Mrs. Lorita Ndidi Obadiah, held recently in Akure, Ondo State. Mr. Faphounda, addressing the gathering, emphasized that many modern marital problems stem from couples abandoning God's original design for marriage. He reiterated that many marital crises result from couples trying to run marriage their own way, rather than following the plan set by the institution's originator.
The newly launched book, titled "Two Shall Become One: God's Blue Print for Marriage," serves as a guide back to this foundational plan. The book explains what marriage is from the lens of God, His purpose for marriage. It provides an extensive exposition on critical issues, including the role of sex in marriage, which is identified as a major cause of tension.
Practical Guidance on Sex, Submission, and Prayer
Faphounda highlighted that the book offers medically-backed insights, stating that the risk of prostate cancer in men will be reduced by fifty per cent by having sex frequently. He supported this claim with references to recent medical research, quoting the wisdom that "when the bed shakes in the bedroom, the marriage will be stable."
Beyond physical intimacy, the book also tackles the often-misunderstood concept of submission. It defines submission, clears up common misconceptions, and reveals the hidden powers that a biblical approach to submission can unlock in a marriage.
Furthermore, the book provides practical, biblically-sound advice for managing other common stressors. It gave practical biblical sense to managing difficult in-laws, and money matters in marriage. A central theme is the power of prayer, with Faphounda asserting that successful marriages are powered by prayer. He pointed out that many marital struggles are not necessarily due to bad spouses but to spiritual warfare, as the devil actively works against the family unit, which is the bedrock of any nation.
Forgiveness: The Cornerstone of a Lasting Union
Another critical principle emphasized in the 54-page book is forgiveness. Mr. Faphounda described unforgiveness as like a cancer in marriage, a destructive force that spreads until the relationship collapses. He powerfully stated that "marriage is achieved by two great forgivers."
During the event, Ven. Thompson Akinboro, the Priest-in-charge of St. Thomas's Anglican Church, Isikan, Akure, commended the author for her initiative. He praised Mrs. Obadiah for putting her experiences into writing, thereby adding value to the nation by strengthening the marital institution.
The author, Mrs. Lorita Obadiah, explained that her book, "Two Shall Become One," is designed to unlock the secrets to a thriving, God-centered marriage. It offers readers a clear biblical and practical guide to building unity, understanding divine purpose, and fostering togetherness in their marital journey.
