Deeper Revelation of Christ Ministries Founder, Bishop Isaac Muranda has implored church leaders to introduce and host more of marriage enhancement programs in their churches as a way of building strong unions, reducing divorces and alleviating domestic violence.
He shared this message as he was celebrating the 14th marriage anniversary with his wife Saraphina Muranda.
Bishop Muranda revealed that such initiatives are crucial towards offering services to couples which among others include counselling and conflict resolution saying that by providing spiritual guidance, emotional support and community resources, faith leaders can help couples build strong and resilient marriages.
“Faith leaders can play a significant role in supporting and strengthening marriages within their communities. The first step is premarital counselling which provides guidance and support to couples before marriage and also helping them to prepare for the challenges and joys of a married life.
“Marriage enrichment programs such as workshops, retreats, or classes that focus on communication, conflict resolution, and relationship building should be organised and done often in churches. This will create a good platform for married couples to learn from the experts and from each other’s’ experience.
“Pastoral support is also important. This can be in form of providing emotional and spiritual support to couples, offering guidance and counseling during difficult times and above all sharing biblical teachings on marriage, relationships, and family, thus providing a spiritual foundation for couples,” said Muranda
Sharing some marriage nuggets that sustained their marriage for the past 14 years, Bishop Muranda expressed that communication, mutual respect, trust, honesty and spending quality time as a couple have been the pillars for their marriage.
“The past 14 years were enjoyable for us. I want to let you know that you can build or destroy your marriage by what you do. One of the secrets to a happy union include communication. As partners you need to be open to one another. Honest and respectful communication helps build trust, understanding and intimacy.
“Also, mutual respect is critical. Valuing and respecting each other’s thoughts, feelings, and boundaries fosters a positive and supportive relationship. Trust is also the foundation of any successful relationship, being truthful and reliable helps build and maintain trust.
“Most importantly quality time and forgiveness are the best ingredients that should not be neglected. Spending quality time together, engaging in activities you both enjoy, can help nurture the relationship. Practicing forgiveness and understanding can help couples navigate conflicts and challenges. The Bible in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 says “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres,” he added.
Meanwhile, in her message to women Bishop Saraphina Muranda advised women to be supportive, submissive and have a good character if they want their marriages to last long.
“1 Peter 3:5 says for after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands. The scripture highlights the importance of inner qualities like gentleness, humility, and a quiet spirit.
“As a woman you should submit yourself to your husband. The concept of submission in this context means mutual respect and consideration between spouses rather than oppression or dominance.
“Also, a wife material should have a good character. The same passage encourages women to focus on developing inner qualities that reflect their faith and character,” she said
In 2024, Zimbabwe saw a significant increase in divorce cases, with 3,214 recorded across the country, a 49% surge from 2,149 in 2023. While the number of filed cases rose, only 1,562 had been finalized by the end of the year.
