Today’s sermon explored the foundational truths of marriage through the lens of Ephesians 5:31 and the Genesis creation account. Using the metaphor of marriage as a garden, we examined how agape love—selfless, sacrificial love—is only possible through the Holy Spirit, not by human effort. The “soil” of marriage, as described in Genesis, is not perfect but good, and it is in this soil that God calls us to subdue sin and grow in sanctification. The sermon highlighted how the fall introduced shame, blame, and conflict into marriage, transforming it from a place of vulnerability and safety into a battleground for sanctification. Ultimately, marriage is not about achieving happiness or perfection, but about God using our spouse to shape us into the likeness of Christ, with prayer and humility as essential tools for this journey.