God created marriage as a divine institution and a holy covenant to symbolize His love, unity, and dedication to His people. Scripture demonstrates how closely marriage and love are intertwined, with each bolstering and sustaining the other.
God’s desire for marriage is shown in the Bible, particularly in the King James Version (KJV), which emphasizes patience, sacrifice, respect, and unshakable loyalty. From engagement to lifetime companionship, these timeless truths provide insight for couples at every step.
The poetic depth and spiritual richness of God’s Word are encapsulated in the King James Version, which offers verses that address the deeper call of commitment and covenant in addition to the beauty of passionate love.
The Bible provides timeless lessons that ground love in grace and truth, regardless of whether you’re getting married, getting ready for marriage, or looking to improve your relationship. The Bible presents a vision of love from Genesis to Revelation that is based on selfless service, unity of purpose, and mutual surrender rather than transient feelings.
Let these Bible passages about marriage and love move you and change your perspective on what God wants for a couple. Marriage is a spiritual connection that reflects Christ’s love for His Church; it is more than just a friendship. These KJV scriptures provide a powerful foundation for nurturing trust, cultivating emotional intimacy, and walking together in faith. Let the Word of God be your compass as you journey through the joys and challenges of love and marriage.
40 Powerful Bible Verses On Love And Marriage KJV (2025)
1. Genesis 2:24
“Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.”
This foundational verse establishes God’s original design for marriage. It speaks of deep unity, leaving behind old ties to form a new bond, becoming “one flesh.” This joining is more than physical; it reflects a profound emotional and spiritual union. Marriage is not simply a human contract but a divine covenant ordained by God Himself. It is in this sacred unity that love is nurtured, families are built, and God’s intention for companionship is fulfilled.
2. Proverbs 18:22
“Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord.”
This verse frames marriage as a divine blessing, not merely a personal achievement. Finding a spouse is portrayed as finding something good—an act that garners God’s favor. It’s a reminder that love and companionship are gifts from above. God honors those who pursue marriage with reverence and integrity, and He actively blesses such unions with His favor and grace.
3. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
“Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow…”
These verses beautifully express the strength and support found in a godly marriage. Life is full of challenges, but when two walk together in unity and love, they can lift and strengthen one another. Marriage is not just companionship; it’s a divine partnership where love translates into mutual encouragement and shared purpose. God designed love in marriage to be a shelter and strength for life’s journey.
4. Song of Solomon 8:7
“Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it…”
Here, love is portrayed as invincible and priceless—something that cannot be bought or overwhelmed by life’s storms. This poetic verse celebrates the enduring power of genuine love in marriage. In times of adversity, true love stands firm, unshaken and resilient. Godly love within marriage mirrors His unrelenting love for His people—fierce, enduring, and priceless.
5. Matthew 19:6
“Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”
Spoken by Jesus Himself, this verse affirms the sacredness and permanence of marriage. It emphasizes that the union between husband and wife is divinely instituted, so sacred that no human should dare separate it. God’s involvement in marriage elevates it beyond a mere social arrangement to a spiritual covenant. Love in this context is protected, preserved, and purposed by God.
6. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up… Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.”
These verses describe the true essence of love—one that is patient, kind, humble, and enduring. Often read at weddings, this passage captures the heartbeat of a Christ-centered marriage. Love in marriage is not a fleeting emotion but a steadfast action, even in difficulty. God calls couples to embody this kind of love—a love that mirrors His character and remains strong through every season.
7. Ephesians 5:25
“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.”
Here, the love of a husband is modeled after Christ’s sacrificial love for the Church. This is a high calling—one of devotion, sacrifice, and servant-hearted leadership. In godly marriage, love is not about dominance or mere affection, but selfless giving. This verse urges husbands to lead with tenderness and purpose, always seeking the spiritual well-being of their wives.
8. Ephesians 5:33
“Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.”
Paul’s instruction emphasizes mutual responsibility—love from the husband and respect from the wife. Together, they form the foundation for a thriving and respectful relationship. This balance promotes harmony and reflects the mutual honor God intends for marriage. When both love and reverence flourish, the marital bond becomes strong, nurturing, and joyful.
9. Colossians 3:14
“And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.”
This verse reminds us that love, referred to as “charity,” is the highest virtue and the glue that holds all others together. In marriage, kindness, patience, and humility all flow from love. When couples “put on” love daily, their relationship is refined and perfected by the Spirit of God. It’s love that sustains, binds, and beautifies the journey of two lives joined as one.
10. 1 Peter 4:8
“And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.”
Love in marriage is not only expressive—it is redemptive. This verse teaches that true love has the power to forgive, heal, and restore. Marriage is a union of two imperfect people; there will be faults and failures. But when love is fervent, it chooses grace over resentment. Godly love sees the bigger picture and chooses reconciliation over division.
11. Ruth 1:16
“…for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.”
Though originally spoken by Ruth to her mother-in-law Naomi, this verse beautifully illustrates the depth of covenant love and commitment often reflected in marriage. Ruth’s words embody loyalty, devotion, and unity—qualities essential for a godly marriage. Her pledge symbolizes the spiritual and emotional fusion that takes place when two people become one in life and in faith.
12. Malachi 2:14
“…the Lord hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth… she is thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant.”
This verse affirms that marriage is more than a social or legal contract—it is a sacred covenant witnessed by God Himself. The wife is not just a partner but a companion in covenant. God takes marriage seriously and expects His people to do the same. Love within this bond is not to be taken lightly; it must be nurtured with fidelity, honor, and spiritual depth.
13. Hebrews 13:4
“Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.”
This verse affirms the sanctity and honor of marriage. It calls believers to keep the marriage bed pure and to uphold the moral boundaries set by God. Love within marriage is sacred and exclusive, a reflection of God’s holiness. Faithfulness in marriage is not only a moral duty—it is a spiritual offering that honors God’s design for intimate relationships.
14. Proverbs 31:10
“Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.”
This well-known verse praises the rare and invaluable worth of a godly woman. In the context of marriage, it highlights the strength, dignity, and honor of a wife who fears the Lord. Such a woman is a blessing to her husband and home. Love and marriage are deeply enriched when spouses recognize and cherish the spiritual virtues in one another.
15. 1 Corinthians 7:3
“Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.”
This verse emphasizes mutual care and affection in the marriage relationship. Love in marriage is not one-sided; it is reciprocal. Each partner is called to consider the needs and well-being of the other. The call to “render due benevolence” speaks of intentional, sacrificial love that honors the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs within the marital covenant.
16. 1 Corinthians 7:10-11
“…Let not the wife depart from her husband… and let not the husband put away his wife.”
Paul’s counsel here upholds the permanence and commitment required in Christian marriage. Though life’s pressures and conflicts may arise, this verse encourages reconciliation and perseverance. The love that sustains marriage is enduring and rooted in obedience to God’s will. Stability in marriage honors the Lord and nurtures spiritual growth in both partners.
17. Matthew 22:37-39
“Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart… and… love thy neighbour as thyself.”
Though not speaking about marriage directly, these commands are foundational for all relationships, especially marriage. When each spouse loves God first, their love for each other is purified and strengthened. A Christ-centered marriage begins with this divine order—loving God wholly, then loving your spouse as yourself. This builds a bond that reflects God’s love.
18. Mark 10:9
“What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”
This powerful affirmation from Jesus reiterates the divine origin of marriage. It is not a casual agreement but a union ordained by God. Once two are joined in holy matrimony, their bond is to be honored, protected, and preserved. Love, in this context, is a lifelong covenant that no outside force should sever. God is the author and sustainer of marital love.
19. Psalm 85:10
“Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.”
This poetic verse mirrors the harmony that should exist in marriage. Mercy and truth, righteousness and peace—when these attributes are present, love flourishes. A godly marriage is not just romantic; it is full of grace, honesty, justice, and calm. When couples reflect these divine qualities, their relationship becomes a sanctuary of love and peace.
20. Romans 12:10
“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.”
Paul’s instruction here is crucial in the context of marriage. Love is shown not just through words but in consistent acts of kindness and honor. “Preferring one another” means putting your spouse’s needs ahead of your own—a key to selfless, Christlike love. This daily posture of honor fosters unity, deepens affection, and builds a resilient marriage
21. Romans 13:10
“Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.”
This verse reminds us that genuine love does not harm. In marriage, this principle applies deeply—true love does not manipulate, hurt, or neglect. Rather, it seeks the good of the other and aligns with God’s moral law. In a godly marriage, love is the guiding principle that shapes behavior, resolves conflict, and builds trust. When love rules the home, righteousness follows.
22. Philippians 2:2
“Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.”
Unity in marriage begins with shared love and vision. Paul’s words call couples to be like-minded—not only in goals but in heart. A marriage marked by harmony, mutual understanding, and Christlike love brings joy to both the relationship and to God. Being “of one mind” does not mean uniformity, but spiritual agreement and intentional unity in love.
23. 1 John 4:7
“Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.”
Love originates from God, and all true expressions of love flow from knowing Him. In marriage, this is especially relevant. A couple that abides in God also abides in love. When spouses love each other with divine love, they demonstrate their relationship with God. This verse highlights that love in marriage is not merely emotional—it’s spiritual and rooted in God’s nature.
24. 1 John 4:12
“If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.”
God’s love reaches maturity in us when we actively love one another. In marriage, this means expressing God’s love through patience, forgiveness, affection, and sacrifice. The presence of God is manifested in marriages where love is freely given and received. This verse assures us that God is present in relationships filled with grace and Christlike affection.
25. Galatians 5:22
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith…”
The first fruit listed—love—is the bedrock of the Spirit-filled life and, by extension, a Spirit-led marriage. When both partners cultivate the fruit of the Spirit, their union becomes fruitful, joyful, and God-honoring. Love that springs from the Holy Spirit is not selfish but full of joy, peace, patience, and kindness. This kind of love creates a home where God is glorified.
26. 1 Thessalonians 3:12
“And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another…”
Paul’s prayer is that believers would not just love but overflow with love. In marriage, this is a powerful reminder that love must be continually nurtured and grown. No matter how long a couple has been together, God desires that their love continue to deepen. Through Him, love can flourish, mature, and abound in every season of life.
27. Genesis 24:67
“And Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah’s tent, and took Rebekah, and she became his wife; and he loved her…”
This tender moment marks one of the first marriages described in detail in Scripture. Isaac’s love for Rebekah was not born of long courtship but of God’s providence. Love and marriage, when built on divine guidance and covenant, flourish under God’s hand. This verse illustrates that love in marriage can grow deeply even from the moment of commitment, when God is at the center.
28. Psalm 127:1
“Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it…”
A successful marriage must be built on the foundation of the Lord. Human efforts alone cannot sustain the storms of life, but a marriage established by God is secure. This verse reminds couples to invite God into every part of their relationship—from communication and finances to intimacy and vision. When God is the architect, love stands firm.
29. Proverbs 3:3-4
“Let not mercy and truth forsake thee… So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.”
Mercy and truth are two critical ingredients in any loving relationship. In marriage, when both partners walk in grace and honesty, they gain favor not only with one another but also with God. These virtues form the moral compass that keeps love from drifting into selfishness or deceit. A marriage guided by truth and mercy becomes a testimony of God’s favor.
30. 2 Corinthians 6:14
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers…”
This verse provides important counsel about spiritual alignment in relationships. Marriage thrives when both individuals are walking in the same direction spiritually. Being “equally yoked” means sharing the same faith, values, and devotion to God. Such unity fosters trust, reduces conflict, and strengthens love because both partners are anchored in the same eternal truth.
31. Deuteronomy 24:5
“When a man hath taken a new wife, he shall not go out to war… but shall be free at home one year, and shall cheer up his wife which he hath taken.”
This verse shows God’s care for the emotional foundation of marriage. The command to allow a man time to bond with his new wife reveals the importance of building intimacy and joy at the beginning of marriage. It reflects God’s desire for couples to invest deeply in one another, creating space for love to grow strong before facing life’s larger demands.
32. Ecclesiastes 9:9
“Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity…”
This verse encourages joy in marriage, even amidst life’s fleeting nature. Love within marriage is meant to be celebrated, not just endured. God calls couples to enjoy each other, share laughter, and find meaning in their bond. A joyful marriage, centered in love and reverence, reflects the beauty of God’s gift to mankind.
33. Song of Solomon 2:16
“My beloved is mine, and I am his…”
This intimate declaration of mutual belonging reflects the heart of covenant love. Marriage is not about ownership in the worldly sense, but about a sacred exchange of lives. In this poetic line, the exclusivity and passion of marital love are celebrated. It reminds couples that marriage is a place of mutual commitment, intimacy, and shared identity.
34. Song of Solomon 3:4
“…I found him whom my soul loveth: I held him, and would not let him go…”
This verse captures the deep longing and satisfaction found in love. In marriage, finding a soulmate is a treasured blessing, and this love is to be cherished and held onto. It speaks of emotional connection, commitment, and security. Marriage becomes a refuge where two hearts can find safety and joy in one another’s arms.
35. Song of Solomon 4:10
“How fair is thy love, my sister, my spouse! how much better is thy love than wine!”
This verse celebrates the delight and sweetness of marital love. The bride is both a sister in faith and a spouse in covenant, showing that spiritual and emotional intimacy go hand in hand. God affirms the beauty of love expressed in marriage, where passion and purity blend in a bond that is better than any earthly pleasure.
36. Song of Solomon 6:3
“I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine…”
This beautiful verse expresses mutual belonging and deep commitment in love. It reminds couples that love in marriage is not one-sided but reciprocal and covenantal. When each partner gives fully of themselves in trust and affection, their bond is strengthened. This mutual surrender is a mirror of Christ’s love for His Church.
37. Isaiah 62:5
“…as the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, so shall thy God rejoice over thee.”
Marriage is not only a human institution—it is also a metaphor for God’s love for His people. This verse compares God’s joy in His people to the joy of a groom for his bride. It affirms that marital love reflects divine joy, celebration, and intimacy. In every loving marriage, we catch a glimpse of the Lord’s rejoicing heart.
38. Hosea 2:19
“And I will betroth thee unto me for ever; yea, I will betroth thee unto me in righteousness…”
God uses the language of marriage to describe His covenant with His people. This everlasting betrothal highlights the eternal, faithful, and righteous love that God offers—and it is the model for human marriage. Just as God binds Himself to us in steadfast love, so are husbands and wives to cling to each other in righteousness and mercy.
39. Luke 16:18
“Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery…”
Jesus speaks here about the sanctity and permanence of marriage. This strong warning affirms that marriage is a lifelong commitment not to be broken lightly. Love within marriage should be guarded with seriousness and honor. It calls couples to faithful endurance, reflecting God’s unwavering covenant with His people.
40. Revelation 19:7
“…for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.”
The Bible ends with a vision of the ultimate marriage between Christ and His Church. This verse reminds us that earthly marriage is a shadow of a greater reality. Just as the Church prepares for her Bridegroom, so should spouses live in readiness, holiness, and devotion. Every loving marriage points to the eternal union with Christ that believers await.
Conclusion
Marriage is a heavenly gift that becomes a sacred relationship that strengthens with each stage of life when it is based on God’s Word. The Bible provides rich counsel on how to love, serve, and honor one another in marriage, particularly in the King James Version’s timeless and beautiful language. These verses remind us that love is gentle, patient, enduring, and based in sacrifice—just as Christ loves His Church—whether we are joyful or facing difficulties.
Allow these verses to direct your heart, mold your connection, and strengthen your bond as you reflect on them. In a marriage, love is more than just an emotion; it is a daily decision to embody God’s forgiveness, grace, and stability. You and your spouse may create a relationship that not only endures but flourishes, giving God praise and providing happiness to both of you for years to come, if you use the Bible as your compass.
