It is no secret that marriages and relationships today are not what they used to be. Divorce rates are high, and even those who stay together often struggle with resentment and emotional distance. One reason for this might be due to the fact that more people now prioritize personal success and happiness over everything else. This takes its toll on the health of their relationships. While success and happiness are good, a relationship cannot thrive if both people are only looking out for themselves. Love was never meant to be self-centered. The foundation of a strong marriage—or any meaningful relationship—is not personal gain, but mutual service and sacrifice.
Without this, relationships will continue to break down. Jesus gave us the perfect example of love in action. In Mark 10:45, He said, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Imagine if both husband and wife, or even friends and business partners, adopted this mindset. Instead of focusing on what they can get, they would focus on how they can help, uplift, and support each other. Love is not a transaction where we give only to receive in return. It is a commitment to serve, even when it is inconvenient.
If we want to restore the quality of relationships in our society, we must return to love that serves. It starts with each of us. In your marriage, your friendships, your workplace—choose to serve. This does not mean becoming a doormat, but rather, committing to love unconditionally. When both parties embrace this, relationships flourish. The world teaches us to prioritize self, but God calls us to prioritize love. A genuine Christian understands that God comes first, then others, and finally one’s own interests. As you go about your day, ask yourself: Am I serving others the way Christ served me?
