The dynamics of human relationships are often intricate, with emotions, actions, and commitments intertwining to create bonds that span lifetimes. Within love and partnership, the saying “Attraction is a feeling, love is an action, and marriage is a covenant” encapsulates a deep understanding of the progression of relationships. Moreover, this design resonates profoundly with the teachings of Jesus, underscoring the spiritual significance of these principles.

Attraction as a Feeling:
Attraction serves as the foundation of many relationships, drawing individuals together through physical, emotional, and intellectual connections. This initial spark is a powerful force, yet it’s often fleeting and subjective. Jesus recognized the importance of the heart, cautioning against lustful desires and emphasizing the significance of genuine connections rooted in respect and sincerity. True attraction, when nurtured, can lead to profound emotional bonds and genuine love.

Love as an Action:
In contrast to attraction, love is depicted as an action – a deliberate choice and an intentional commitment. This understanding mirrors Jesus’ teachings of selflessness and sacrificial love. He exemplified love through his actions, teaching that serving, forgiving, and caring for others are paramount. Love as an action requires effort, patience, and a willingness to prioritize the well-being of the other person above oneself. This resonates with the biblical concept of agape love – a selfless, unconditional love that reflects God’s love for humanity.

Marriage as a Covenant:
Marriage, as an institution, is often viewed as a legal contract, but the concept of marriage as a covenant runs deeper. A covenant involves a sacred promise, a bond that transcends mere legalities. Jesus’ teachings on marriage emphasize unity and faithfulness. The covenantal nature of marriage aligns with his teachings of commitment and loyalty, where two individuals pledge to support, cherish, and stand by each other through all seasons of life.

Feelings as a Product of a Loving Covenant with God:
The assertion that feelings are a product of a loving covenant with God suggests that emotions find their root in a spiritual connection. When individuals cultivate a relationship with God, they experience a transformation of the heart. This spiritual transformation can influence their ability to love, forgive, and empathize, thus affecting the feelings they experience within relationships. Jesus’ teachings on love, compassion, and the Holy Spirit’s role in shaping believers’ hearts underscore the profound impact of spirituality on emotions.
The axiom “Attraction is a feeling, love is an action, and marriage is a covenant” encapsulates a journey of profound growth in human relationships, aligning with the teachings of Jesus. This paradigm offers insights into the progression from the initial attraction that draws individuals together, to the selfless actions that sustain love, and the covenantal commitment that anchors marriages. It also underscores the spiritual dimension of emotions, reminding us that our connections with God influence the way we engage with others. By embracing these principles, individuals can forge deeper, more meaningful connections built on a foundation of genuine attraction, intentional love, and sacred commitment.