Is it ethical to remain in a marriage without love?

The Bible teaches that marriage is a covenant made before God, not merely a contract based on temporary feelings (Malachi 2:14). While love (defined biblically as sacrificial action and commitment, agape) is commanded within marriage, the ethical foundation for remaining married is the sanctity and permanence of the vow made to God and one's spouse. Remaining in a marriage that lacks emotional love (or phileo) is ethically sound and often necessary, provided the environment is safe, respectful, and not abusive. The Christian's duty is not to wait for love to return, but to actively demonstrate covenant fidelity and work toward recon