Different by DesignSample

What comes to mind when you hear the word "helper"? Probably not an equal, right? More like an assistant? A sidekick? Maybe someone who hands you tools while you do the real work?

When God decided to create a companion for Adam, He used a specific word to describe her. Genesis 2:18 (ESV) says, "I will make him a helper fit for him."

In our culture, the word "helper" can sound diminished. Less important. Secondary.

But that's not what the Hebrew word means at all.

The word is "ezer." And it's the same word used to describe God Himself when He rescues and strengthens His people.

Psalm 121:1-2 (ESV) says, "I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth."

The word for "help" there? Ezer. The same word used for Eve.

Psalm 33:20 (ESV) uses it again: "Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield."

This word carries no hint of inferiority. An ezer is an indispensable partner who supplies what the other lacks. Someone who brings strength where there is weakness. Someone essential to the mission.

The fact that God uses this same word to describe Himself tells us everything we need to know. Marriage is designed to be a picture of mutual dependence within God-given roles, not a hierarchy of value.

Matthew Henry, the Bible commentator, wrote: "The woman was made of a rib out of the side of Adam; not made out of his head to rule over him, nor out of his feet to be trampled upon by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be beloved."

Proverbs 31:10-11 (ESV) says, "An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain."

Guys, your wife is a gift. A powerful ally. A treasure beyond measure.

When God brought Eve to Adam, Adam's reaction was essentially, "Wow!" He found his companion. His ezer.

Reflection Question: How have you viewed your spouse? Guys, have you thought of your wife simply as an assistant, or as the powerful ally she is? Ladies, do you see the valuable, God-given role you have? Apart, it is not good. Together, you are One Flesh — a powerful team.

Tomorrow: Have you ever asked your spouse a simple question and gotten a completely unexpected answer? On Day 3, we'll explore why men and women think so differently, and why that's actually a gift.