In most Bible translations, Genesis 2:18 says, “It is not good for a man to be alone. I will make a suitable helper for him.” 

Fellas, I would recommend that you not refer to your wife as your suitable helper. I can hear a guy saying, “This is my wife. She’s not all that great, but she’ll make due. She’s not even a great helper, but she’s suitable.” 

Ladies, I have good news. That is not what God thinks of you. In fact, understanding one word flips the above idea on its head.

In his fantastic book, The Meaning of Marriage, Timothy Keller points out that the Hebrew word, from which we get suitable helper, is Ezer. (Guys, I would not recommend calling your wife by this name either.)  But understanding it is huge.

If you search the Old Testament for the word Ezer, you will find that it is often used to describe God. Psalm 121 says, “I lift up my eyes to the hills. Where does my help come from? My help comes form the Lord.” In my study, it stood out to me that several times, God is described as our helper and shield. Suddenly, the idea of being a helper is seen as essential, strong, and capable. So married guys, be thankful that God has given you a strong helper – one who takes on the very character of God. 

*This post is an excerpt from my sermon, The Mystery of Marriage (05/12/2013).