Wednesday, 12 March 2025

PREPARING FOR MARRIAGE

TITLE: PREPARING FOR MARRIAGE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Proverbs 24:3-4
Supporting Texts: Genesis 2:18, Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, Ephesians 5:22-33, 1 Corinthians 7:2-5

INTRODUCTION:

Marriage is a sacred institution established by God for companionship, love, and fulfilment. However, a successful marriage does not happen by chance; it requires preparation, understanding, and a commitment to God's principles. Many marriages fail because of a lack of proper preparation. In this study, we will explore the key aspects of preparing for a godly and successful marriage.

1. SPIRITUAL PREPARATION

  • a) Seeking God's Will (Proverbs 3:5-6)
    Before making a marital decision, it is essential to seek God's guidance. Marriage should align with God's purpose for one's life.

  • b) Developing a Personal Relationship with God (Matthew 6:33)
    A strong marriage is built on a strong foundation in Christ. Each partner must prioritise their relationship with God.

  • c) Understanding Biblical Marriage Principles (Ephesians 5:22-33)
    Marriage is a covenant, not just a contract. Knowing God's roles for husbands and wives strengthens the relationship.

  • d) Prayer and Fasting for Divine Direction (James 1:5)
    Seeking God's wisdom through prayer and fasting ensures that one makes the right marital choice.

  • e) Biblical Example: Isaac’s Marriage to Rebekah (Genesis 24:12-27)
    Isaac's marriage was divinely orchestrated because of prayer and divine leading.

2. EMOTIONAL AND MENTAL PREPARATION

  • a) Maturity and Emotional Stability (1 Corinthians 13:11)
    Marriage requires emotional maturity. One must leave childish behaviour and embrace responsibility.

  • b) Healing from Past Hurts (Isaiah 43:18-19)
    Unresolved emotional wounds can negatively affect marriage. One must let go of past heartbreaks and pains.

  • c) Developing Effective Communication Skills (Proverbs 15:1)
    Healthy communication is vital for resolving conflicts and strengthening intimacy.

  • d) Managing Expectations and Differences (Amos 3:3)
    Partners should discuss their expectations and learn to accommodate differences.

  • e) Biblical Example: Ruth and Boaz (Ruth 3:10-11)
    Ruth demonstrated emotional maturity and patience in her relationship with Boaz.

3. FINANCIAL PREPARATION

  • a) Understanding Financial Stewardship (Luke 14:28-30)
    Marriage comes with financial responsibilities. Wise financial planning is necessary.

  • b) Avoiding Debt and Financial Irresponsibility (Romans 13:8)
    Entering marriage with excessive debt can create unnecessary burdens.

  • c) Planning for Family Needs (1 Timothy 5:8)
    Couples must plan for shelter, food, education, and other family needs.

  • d) Developing a Culture of Giving and Saving (Proverbs 21:20)
    A wise couple learns to save and give to the work of God.

  • e) Biblical Example: The Virtuous Woman (Proverbs 31:16, 27)
    The Proverbs 31 woman managed her home and finances wisely.

4. SOCIAL AND RELATIONAL PREPARATION

  • a) Learning to Relate with the Opposite Gender (1 Timothy 5:2)
    Before marriage, one must learn healthy boundaries and godly relationships.

  • b) Seeking Godly Counsel (Proverbs 11:14)
    Wise counsel from mentors and spiritual leaders helps in marital preparation.

  • c) Understanding Family Backgrounds and Cultural Differences (Genesis 24:3-4)
    Cultural and family differences should be discussed and understood.

  • d) Developing Conflict Resolution Skills (Ephesians 4:26-27)
    Conflicts are inevitable, but they should be handled in a godly manner.

  • e) Biblical Example: The Marriage at Cana (John 2:1-11)
    Jesus’ presence in a marriage brings peace and joy, even in difficult times.

5. PHYSICAL PREPARATION

  • a) Maintaining Good Health (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
    Taking care of one’s body ensures a healthy marriage and family life.

  • b) Dressing Modestly and Attractively (1 Timothy 2:9-10)
    Modesty and presentability are essential in relationships and marriage.

  • c) Understanding Sexual Purity Before Marriage (Hebrews 13:4)
    Premarital purity strengthens trust and honour in marriage.

  • d) Preparing for the Responsibilities of Parenthood (Psalm 127:3-5)
    Children are a blessing, and couples should be ready for parenting responsibilities.

  • e) Biblical Example: Joseph and Mary (Matthew 1:18-25)
    Joseph and Mary exemplified purity, responsibility, and trust in God's plan.

CONCLUSION:

A successful marriage begins with proper preparation. By focusing on spiritual, emotional, financial, social, and physical aspects, one can build a marriage that honours God. As believers, we must commit to seeking God's guidance, developing godly character, and preparing ourselves fully before saying, "I do."

PRAYER POINTS:

  1. Lord, guide me in choosing the right life partner.
  2. Father, give me wisdom and understanding for marriage.
  3. I break every negative generational pattern affecting marriages in my lineage.
  4. Lord, help me grow spiritually before entering marriage.
  5. Father, heal my heart from past hurts and disappointments.
  6. Lord, grant me financial wisdom and stability before marriage.
  7. Holy Spirit, help me communicate effectively in relationships.
  8. Lord, let my marriage bring glory to Your name.
  9. Father, prepare me to be a godly spouse.
  10. Lord Jesus, be the foundation of my future marriage.


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