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Don’t get me wrong, some of the information these experts provide is great. But most of what they teach doesn’t align with our Christian values. He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord. Proverbs 18:22(NIV)

Unlike modern dating, Christian dating is done for God’s glory. It starts and ends with God. Don’t just pick a girl because she is attractive or a wife material and start dating her. Those are good qualities, but the purposes of God should come first in your life.

If you have been doing it wrongly, know that it’s not too late. This article will help you understand what Christian dating is and what it is not. It will help you to start glorifying God with your relationship.

 The Purpose of Dating

Dating helps us to know each other well. It will help you understand whether your plans and purposes align with the girl you’re dating.  Christian dating enables us to show the other person who we are. And give them the chance to decide whether they want to settle down with us or not.

Some people will tell you to date for a year or six months before you get married. But it all depends on the two of you and, most of all, God.

Some people get married almost immediately. But some wait a couple of months or years before they settle down.  You must seek God’s guidance about this so that you can know the right thing to do.

Now, let us look at the top 13 Christian dating tips for guys:

Focus on your future, not fantasy

Men are visual beings, so it is easy to get drawn to a woman’s looks or what you see externally. It is okay for you to want someone who looks good. But at the end of the day, it is better to have someone who wants to build a great future with you.

Find someone who will support your dreams and goals.

Deal with your secret struggles first

Let’s be honest.  Most of us have things that we struggle with.  For example, some people struggle with porn addiction, drug abuse, anger issues, fear, and so on.  Yes, including Christians. Now, some people have convinced themselves that they will overcome their secret struggles, especially pornography, once they are married.  Sadly that is not always true.

If you cannot master your struggles now, they will continue to master you even in marriage (Romans 6:12). Instead of rushing into dating, focus on building your relationship with God. Ask God to help you deal with your inner struggles.  If you already have a girlfriend, you deal with your secret struggle now before the two of you get married.

Related Article: Top 19 Best Devotions for Dating Couples.

Have realistic expectations

We all want the best things in life.  Most of us want to have the perfect wife who is submissive, well mannered,  prayerful, and good looking.  It is good to have your standards and expectations, but they need to be realistic.

Have a sit-down with yourself, be honest about the expectations you have about your future wife, and see if they are realistic.  The truth is you cannot have everything you want. You may get a good-looking woman, but she may not be the best cook or very prayerful.

Work on your personal relationship with God

If you don’t know which Christian dating advice for men to start with, I suggest you start with this one. See, whether you’re dating, or not your relationship with God should come first.

Having a close relationship with God will help you see dating and marriage through God’s eyes.  An intimate relationship with God will also help you know when you are starting to stray away from your faith. It will be easier for you to know whether the girl you are dating is right for you.

A personal relationship with God will help you understand why he started the institution of marriage. And his intentions for you and your future wife in this world.

Be like the Person you’re Going to Marry

Okay, this might sound confusing, but you need to be like the person you want to marry.  What I mean is this, if you want someone that is patient learn to be patient first.  If you want a submissive or prayerful woman, then submit to God and have a disciplined prayer life.

God is protective of his children. Do not expect to find the best when you’re not trying to become the best that God wants you to be.

Don’t be unequally yoked

Just because a girl says she’s a Christian and she goes to church every Sunday does not mean that she is truly a believer of Jesus Christ.  She might be a Christian just by title, and going to church maybe a ritual for her.

So, be careful. Find someone that will respect your faith and work with you in the path that God has laid out to you.

The right woman will allow you to be the leader and priest of your home.  Instead of putting you down, she will always encourage you even when you make mistakes. She will not feel threatened by your leadership.

Find a woman who has a close relationship with God.  A girl that is submissive to Christ will find it easy to submit to you even in those times when you fail her. ( 2 Corinthians 6:14)

Choose Obedience Over Passion

Every time people give dating advice tips, they will put much of the responsibility on the woman. Believers and unbelievers alike will tell women that they’re the ones who determine the course of their relationships. While that is true, you need to know that you have a responsibility in your relationship.  At the end of the day, you are the leader in that relationship, even if you’re not married.  You should not let passion overtake obedience.

If the woman fails and allows passion to take over, it is your responsibility as a man to lead her in the right direction.  Don’t leave that responsibility of being pure and obedient to the word of God to your girlfriend.  God will judge you individually.  He will not put the blame on the woman alone because you have a part to play in the relationship.

Eve is the one who listened to the devil and gave the fruit to Adam. But they were punished individually and as a couple. Be responsible by putting this Christian dating advice for men into practice. (Genesis 3)

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Set Boundaries

This is closely related to choosing obedience over passion. You need to set boundaries on how you are going to work out your relationship.  The two of you should be honest about your weaknesses and strengths. And then come up with healthy boundaries that will enable you to walk in the ways of God until marriage.

For example,  if you are keen on maintaining purity, you need to avoid being in intimate places alone. You don’t want to be in your bedroom with the woman you’re dating if you don’t want sex outside marriage.  It is better to avoid temptation than to fight against it. (1Cornthians 6:18)

Related Article: Christian Dating Advice for Women: Top 13 Tips.

 Be Led by the Holy Spirit

It is easy for people who are dating to be influenced by society on what to do while dating.  But here’s the thing the best person to turn to when you want to date and get married is God. He is the one who created man and woman and the institution of marriage.

The truth is, even though men deal with similar issues, you are wired differently.  It is only God who knows you inside out.  God has given us the Holy Spirit to teach us all things. So allow the Holy Spirit to lead you to the woman that you should marry. (John 14:26)

Be a Leader

The truth is the way you start a relationship will determine how you’re going to be in marriage. If you allow your girlfriend to lead you now, she is going to expect the same in marriage. See, most people like to pretend when dating for fear of losing the person they are dating.

But once they get married, their true colors come out, and that is how problems start cropping up in marriage. Be the leader in your relationship from the start. I don’t mean you should walk all-over your girlfriend and expect her to play wife now. Be the leader in your relationship, and let her get accustomed to that from the start. 

Date a Woman who Respects You

Trying to convince yourself that the woman you’re dating will change once the two of you get married? Well, the truth is if she does not respect you now, she will not do it in marriage.  If anything, she will keep on looking down on you once you get married.

Yes, people change, but in most cases, it is for the worst and not the best. It is good to be gracious to others. But when it comes to dating, you should not ignore red flags all in the name of showing grace.

There is a flip side to this. Some women idolize their men instead of respecting them. You may be feeling on top of the world because your girlfriend idolizes you.

Right now, her whole life may be all about you. But you’re going to get frustrated because you’ll have to measure up to the standards she has set you on.  Not just that, when you get married, she’ll see your flaws and realize that you’re only human, not a superhero. This will cause problems that may lead to divorce.

Related Article: Top 15 Proven Ways To Know God Intimately.

Don’t Date a Girl you’ll not Marry

Many married men have confessed that they knew they were going to marry their wives within the first six months.

Now you may be dating it just for the sake of it.  But dating different girls when you know that you’re not going to marry any of them is not good. You will not only mess those girls up, but you will also mess yourself up in the long run. You will invest your emotions, finances, and time and all this, and it will leave you feeling drained.

Yes, relationships fail all that time.  But if you know that you’re not going to marry the woman you’re dating, stop stringing her along.

Pray without Ceasing

I once heard a pastor say this when it comes to dating and marriage, you need to pray. Pray before you start dating, as you date when you get confirmation and after getting married. See, the enemy hates marriage. So he’s doing everything to destroy the first and most important institution in the world.

Today divorce is made to look like the coolest thing ever.  But no matter what Hollywood does, God hates divorce. We need to be on our knees, fighting for our marriages. Not just when we are already married but even when you’re just dating or single.  Let God be the one to lead you to your marriage partner. A wrong move can mess up the rest of your life. (Ephesians 6:18)

In short

Christian dating is not a walk in the park. That is why it is vital for you to know Christian dating advice for men before you start dating.  Now, there is more to finding a wife than just allowing your passion to lead you.  You need to make sure that your desires are in tune with the plans of God over your life. A great woman helps her man to become the person God wants him to be. That is why women are helpers.

You need to get married to someone who will help you to fulfill your purpose in this world.  Your wife needs to be your greatest supporter. That’s why you need to find a woman that respects you and shares your faith.  The best way to find that woman is to spend time in prayer and allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during dating.

Christian Dating Advice for Men Tips.

LINKS

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/2014-survey-how-many-christians-do-you-think-watch-porn 271236741.html#:~:text=An%20estimated%2021%20million%20men,of%201%2C000%20U.S.%20adults%20nationwide.

The post Christian Dating Advice for Men: Top 13 Tips appeared first on .

The stereotypes attached to Christian dating can cause someone to settle for less. But with the right Christian dating advice, you can enter into a relationship that glorifies God.

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The Bible doesn’t tackle the topic of dating directly. However, it talks about marriage and honoring God in every area of our lives. Meaning that there are verses in the Bible that we can use as guidance for Christian dating.

Marriage was the first institution that God set in place (Genesis 2:24). That’s why Christians, at least most of them don’t date for the sake of it. For true believers, dating is a step towards marriage. Make a wrong move, and you’ll spend the rest of your life regretting it.

Why is Christian Dating so Hard?

Christian dating is not the same as modern-day dating. We are supposed to maintain purity until marriage. But dating can awaken desires that should only be awakened in marriage. That is why most Christians find the process of dating hard, so they only do the courtship and get married.

Another primary reason why Christian dating is hard is we have more specifications of the person we want to marry. Our faith doesn’t allow us to settle for anybody, this makes the process of dating more difficult for us.

If you are struggling to date, then know that you’re not alone. So many Christian women find dating to be challenging; that is why some of them are not doing it actively. They’ve left the whole dating process to God and expect Him to magically drop a husband at their door front.

But God doesn’t work that way.

Here are 13 dating advice tips for women that will help you know what to do and look for:

Avoid Unequally Yoked Relationships

We have heard this so many times, but it is worth repeating.  Do not be yoked to someone who does not share your faith.  It will only breed room for disaster as you will not be in agreement about most of the things.

Yeah, sure it’s tempting to settle with that guy because he seems to have all other qualities.  You will pray for him, and God will change his heart, so you say. He’s ok with you being a Christian and respects your faith. Well, this may look cute when you’re dating, but it will not be the same in marriage.

See, this same person will be easily offended by your faith once you get married. He will force you to compromise and expect you to do things his way, not God’s way.  There will be times when you will have to choose between him and God.

The word of God is clear about this, we should not be yoked with unbelievers. Christian women who are in unequally yoked marriages wish they could turn back the hand of time. They’ve had to compromise their faith just so they can please their husbands. So watch out! (2Corinthians 6:14)

Related Article: Top 19 Best Devotions for Dating Couples.

Don’t Date a Man you’re not going to Marry

It sounds like fun having someone who pays attention to you and treats you like a queen. But the thing is if you’re going to do Christian dating, you want to be intentional about it.  We worship a very systematic God, and as his children, we need to emulate him.  God does not want you to waste your time on unfruitful ventures.

Be intentional about your dating life.  It doesn’t mean that you should see every man as a potential husband. But don’t be in a relationship that is heading nowhere.  Don’t waste your time, and most of all, don’t waste someone’s time.  If you’re not ready to date, then it is better to focus on seeking the kingdom of God first and chasing after your dreams and goals.

Do not settle for less

Let’s be honest. Most people, mainly women, have settled for marriage partners that are not their ideal husbands.  They tried their level best to follow every Christian dating advice for women but gave up along the way. Why? Things were not going the way they wanted.

It may be hard but ask God to give you patience and wisdom.  Patience will enable you to walk in his ways when dating.

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Set Realistic Goals

Do you know why some Christian women end up single and bitter? It is because they have unrealistic expectations about their future husband.  You’ll continue to be stuck in the dating cycle if you have unrealistic expectations.

The truth is no one is perfect, including you.  So there is no perfect man out there waiting to sweep you off your feet.  Marriage is a process, and like any other relationship, there will be ups and downs.  Yes, it’s possible to get a man who matches most of your qualities, but they will not be 100% perfect.

Find Completion in God, not Man

The word of God tells us to seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. And every other thing will be added unto us. You need to seek first the kingdom of God because it is only in Christ that you will find completion.

Hollywood has made us believe that a woman cannot be complete without a man and vice versa.  But that is simply not true. Our completion as children of God comes from Christ.  Jesus should be your all in all, not a man.

Yes, marriage is important, it is an institution that was put up by God. But Adam was complete before Eve was created.  He already had a relationship with God. It is God who said, “it is not good for man to be alone.” (Genesis 2:18)

See, that man you want so bad will fail you. But God will not fail you. Find completion in God first before the man.

Related Article: How to Become a Godly Woman Worth Pursuing.

There needs to be chemistry between the two of you

I must start by saying chemistry alone is not enough for you to marry and date someone. But you don’t want to end up with someone you don’t feel attracted to.  Now don’t get it wrong sometimes, people start off by just being friends, and others don’t start out great.  But even then, the two of you should have some level of chemistry.

Heal from Past Relationships

How would you feel if someone was suspicious of you just because of what their former girlfriend did to them?  Bad right? Your past relationships should not be a factor in your new relationship. Most especially if you want a relationship that will lead to marriage.

Take time to heal from your past relationship before getting into another relationship.  Allow God to deal with your heart and choose to let go of the pain.

Be Careful of Guys who look Perfect

Yes, you want the most perfect guy in the world, we all do.  But be careful of someone who comes off as being too perfect.  Such men are always covering up their flaws just so they can get what they want from you.

Settle for a man that you can relate with easily.  Someone who will accept you with your flaws just the way you’ve accepted him the way he is.

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Trust God to lead you to the right man

Does God care about your dating life?  Yes, he does.  Your heavenly Father cares about all areas of your life, including who you’ll end up married to.  As a matter of fact, your heavenly Father is keen on raising Kingdom marriages. He wants his children to be joined together for the glory of his name.

So before you try all Christian dating advice for women that you’ve read and heard go to God first. Allow him to lead you in the way that you should go when it comes to dating. (Psalm 32:8)

Don’t get me wrong.  Allowing God to lead you to the right man does not mean that you sit there and leave him to do everything for you. Socialize with others and go on group dates. Do what God is telling you so that you can be found by the right man.

Rebecca left her home country to meet Isaac.  Ruth had to follow Naomi’s advice for her to end up as Boaz’s wife.  You need to partner with God in this.

Take Everything to God

You will hear a lot of things about dating.  Some people believe purity means you cannot hold hands or kiss before marriage.  Others have no issues with holding hands. Don’t follow every advice you get. Go to God; he knows what will work for you and what will not work.  It is only God who knows your weaknesses and strengths. It is only him who can show you what to do and what not to do.

Most people have the best intentions at heart for you. But spend time with God and ask him to show you what to do concerning your dating life.

Listen to your family and friends

You need to listen to your friends and family.  They may warn you about someone or point out red flags that you have missed. It doesn’t mean that they are wrong, or they don’t have your best interest at heart. They care about you, so listen to them. (Proverbs 11:14)

When you are given advice, don’t be quick to share it with your boyfriend, especially if it is negative.  Ask God for wisdom and revelation so that you can see if what they are telling you is the truth.  Your own friends or family members can have their personal issues with someone. Or they may be telling you the truth, be wise.

Think about the future

It’s easy to get caught up in the now when you find someone that you are really attracted to. The two of you may be focused on what is happening now. You may forget to look at the future. Yes, the future may not be guaranteed, especially if you’re starting out. But it’s worth talking about so that you can know the intentions of the man.

Don’t think about your wedding day only, you need to think beyond that. Talk about where you will live and how you will be as a family.  You don’t have to do this right away. But when the relationship gets serious, the two of you should start thinking about such things.

Many people who focus on the now instead of the future end up messing up.  Be careful not to end up like that.

Related Article: How To Pray Effective For A Godly Husband.

 Look for Character not just Looks

The media has made us believe that a perfect man is one with a six-pack and great looks.  But that is not true, looks fade.  If you want to have a lasting marriage, then focus on someone’s character, not his looks or his talents.

Character is what separates good men from those that want to play with your head.  It is what makes us stand out from the rest of the people.  As you look for someone with a good character, make sure that you work on your character too. God will not give you his son so that you can mess him up with your bad character. There needs to be a balance.

Photo by Matheus Ferrero on Unsplash

 All in all

There’s so much you can learn through Christian dating advice for women. But ultimately, the best dating advice tips for women comes from the person who started the institution of marriage, God.  God wants you to build a kingdom marriage for the glory of his name.

Understand that there is no perfect man out there. But there is someone right for you somewhere, you need to be patient.

When it comes to Christian dating advice for women, each piece of advice is linked with each another. You shouldn’t pick one or five and leave the rest out.  Kingdom marriages are hard because they’re not based on feelings, looks, or talent.

You need godly wisdom, patience, and alertness in the spirit for you to end up with the right person. Do not focus on what is happening now. The two of you should also focus on the future too.

Christian Dating Advice for Women Resources.

Relationship Goals: How to Win at Dating, Marriage, and Sex by Michael Todd

The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman

Single, Dating, Engaged, Married: Navigating Life and Love in the Modern Age by Ben Stuart

The Man God Has For You: 7 traits to Help You Determine Your Life Partner by Stephan Labossiere and Stephan Speaks

LINKS

https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/the-golden-rule-in-christian-dating

The post Christian Dating Advice for Women: Top 13 Tips appeared first on .

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This is likely because we have a misconceived idea that Christian marriages are immune to failure. We all love a good marriage success story.

We all love seeing, reading, or hearing about love conquering all.

Yet, when it comes to acknowledging the actual work that has to be put into a marriage to make it work, we don’t necessarily show the same level of interest.

We turn a blind eye towards the reasons why marriages fail and rather judge the failed marriage.

The Word says that God’s “people are destroyed from lack of knowledge.”

We encourage you to arm yourself with knowledge and avoid marital destruction with these reasons why Christian marriages fail:

1. Not knowing your partner very well

Marriage is a forever covenant between man and woman in the sight of God.

Yet many Christians get married without knowing their partners very well. People do more research when buying a toaster.

Spend some more time getting to know your partner, and their family, better before tying the knot.

2. Outside interferences

As Christians, there is a certain need for fellowship and connection with the greater body of Christ.

This is often where interferences can happen, people giving loving yet unsolicited advice.

It is when this advice is heeded without connecting with your spouse first the problems set in.

3. Troubles with the in-laws

Many fights and or failed marriages can be attributed to the family-in-law. More specifically the mother-and father-in-law.

Exodus 20:12 clearly says to honor our father and mother, yet where should the line be drawn?

The line is drawn in Genesis 2:24 and Ephesians 5:31 “man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife”.

This does not mean that now fathers and mothers should be dishonored. It only means that the opinion of the spouse should be deemed more important.

4. Religious differences

Rifts can be caused by having different religions within a marriage.

This does not necessarily only involve different religions, but could also be attributed to different beliefs in the same religion.

Christianity has many different branches from Protestant and Catholic to Pentecostal and Charismatic all with slightly different beliefs.

The Bible advises that we should be “equally yoked” 2 Corinthians 6:14.

Related Article: Christian Marriage Advice for Couples: 17 will Surprise You.

5. Having different future plans and visions

People have different personalities and have been created uniquely.

Many marriages fail because there is either not a clear combined vision for their future, or the spouses can’t agree on a vision for the future.

Praying and spending time with the Father together often brings people onto the same page, vision-wise. It is there that God shows each spouse HIS vision.

6. Being disconnected

Life in the 21st century is a rush. People have personal goals and dreams that they pursue and in doing so they gradually disconnect from their partners.

Many times, simply sharing goals and dreams with a spouse already brings them closer together. This leads to the next point…

7. Not communicating effectively

Probably the largest cause of failed marriages is ineffective communication. From a lack thereof to over-communication.

In all instances, there should be a clear line of communication between spouses.

Clear and safe space should exist wherein a spouse can raise an issue or concern within the relationship.

The Bible advises “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry”, James 1:19.

Kris Vallotton’s “Agreeing isn’t the point” blog post is a brilliantly helpful resource on communicating better.

8. Not being able to resolve conflict

Following the previous point, a big contributor to failed marriages is that partners do not know how to resolve conflict.

Ephesians 4:26 advises, “‘In your anger do not sin’: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry”

9. Having or hiding financial problems 

Financial problems and not being clear about financial problems within a relationship is a large cause of failed marriages.

Firstly, having financial debt puts pressure onto a couple, then having secret debt can cause larger problems and lead to feelings of distrust and dishonesty.

Be open and honest about financial problems or mistakes. That way the issue can be faced as a couple.

10. Secret sins

Speaking of hiding things, when spouses have struggles and secret sins that they keep from their partners, conflicts and trust issues arise.

Further issues that can arise is a shame, then acting out of shame pushes loved ones away in times of insecurity.

James 5:16 says: “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other”

11. Having unforgiveness 

Mistakes are bound to be made within a marriage, that is the human way.

The problem comes in when either or both parties are unwilling to forgive mistakes.

Again, we can find brilliant advice in God’s Word, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone.

Forgive as the Lord forgave you” Colossians 3:13.

12. Not investing time into the relationship

Couples should set aside special times to invest in their relationship.

Going on a spontaneous date or having a movie night in the middle of the week can go a long way towards bringing partners together.

Read the 5 Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman and do the online quiz to know what your and your spouse’s love language is.

13. Not being there for your spouse

Oftentimes when couples have been together for a long time they tend to set into a routine.

This can be dangerous as it is during this time that one or both partners can start to feel like the other is not there for them in their time of need.

The book Culture of Honour by Danny Silk is a great resource in knowing how to honor your spouse and be there for them.

14. Not making your expectations clear

Everyone has relational expectations. Whether they expect someone to act in a certain way or whether they expect things to happen in a certain way.

These expectations should always be communicated. Failure to communicate expectations in a relationship can easily lead to disappointments.

Related Article: How to Keep Gods Presence in your Marriage.

15. Refusing to compromise

No one wants to compromise, and that causes many marriages to fail.

Compromise is not a negative word, being willing to compromise shows your partner that you trust them and have a common goal in mind.

16. External pressures 

These are pressures on your relationship, either from society, church, or family.

External pressures from a spouse’s mother to give them a grandchild or pressure from work about a big project.

If a couple allows their relationship to be affected by these pressures it can most certainly mean failure.

17. Not knowing yourself

Personal identity is extremely important. It is also important to ensure that you don’t lose yourself within the “couple”.

Knowing that you are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14) is a great starting block on your self-discovery adventures.

Spend time hearing who God says you are.

18. Not being intimate

Sexual intimacy is crucial in a marriage and often when a couple is regularly intimate, they tend to be closer emotionally.

God intended for sex to be a beautiful act of love; however, society has shone a bad light on sex.

Dr. Caroline Leaf interviews a sex therapist, Emily Morse about sexual intimacy in her Cleaning up the Mental Mess podcast.

19. Not touching 

This has nothing to do with sex, but rather being in physical contact regularly. Oftentimes spouses just need a hug or touch on the hand, to reassure them.

In order to touch your partner, you need to be close to them. It is amazing what a simple back rub or holding hand can do for a relationship.

20. Infidelity

Being unfaithful either emotionally and/or physically is a major cause of failed marriages. Between 20-40% of divorces are due to infidelity, that is a striking amount.

There is often a slow move towards being unfaithful that is usually sparked by feeling unloved, unseen, or unappreciated in the marriage.

Having constant and open communications about your feelings and needs will help a great deal.

21. Not having clear boundaries

Just because you are married does not mean that there should not be any boundaries within the relationship.

These boundaries should not only exist inside the marriage but also outside the marriage. Clear boundaries that protect a couple from potential conflict.

Read the book Boundaries by Henry Cloud John Townsend for some valuable insight and guidance on setting clear boundaries.

22. Growing apart

Couples often grow apart during a marriage; this usually happens after the couple has children.

There are many contributing factors to growing apart ranging from being busy at work to spending more time with the children.

Make time as a couple by doing the 40 Day Love Dare Challenge, by Alex and Stephen Kendrick

23. Addictions

Addictions cause many marriages to fail. Substances like addiction to alcohol or it could be hidden like gambling and porn addictions.

Whether it is a blatant or hidden addiction, it puts unnecessary strain on a relationship.

Sober for Life – Christian Addiction Recovery Podcast is a great resource to help to overcome these addictions and breaking those chains.

Related Article: 35 Powerful Bible Verses for a Broken Marriage.

24. When you get lost in your roles

There is a very real threat to relationships when couples settle into societal roles.

Where a woman settles into the role of homemaker and the man settles into the Bob the Builder role.

The problem with uncompromisingly settling into these roles within a marriage is that partners get lost in them.

Switch things up a bit. Women, mow the lawn and men, tidy the kitchen. That ought to spice things up a bit.

25. Insecurities

All people have insecurities about themselves and their abilities.

It is when these insecurities take hold of either or both spouses within a marriage that the marriage fails.

Insecurities cause shame, blame, and fear. It causes the need for constant reassurance and upliftment from a spouse.

Yet the Bible reminds us that “we have not been given a spirit of fear but of love, power and a sound mind” 2 Timothy 1:7

26. Having different parenting styles

Children are without a doubt a gift from God, but often children (unbeknownst to them) cause friction within a marriage.

This friction comes from each spouse having different ideas or styles of parenting. One spouse believes in spanking the child and the other beliefs in grounding the child.

It is important that couples discuss their individual views and more importantly God’s view on parenting BEFORE they start having children.

27. Only focussing on the children

Family is a representation of God’s heart for humanity. Yet, marriages often fail when one or both spouses only focus on the needs, wants, and futures of their children.

Children are obviously important, however; they should not be more important than the constant connection between husband and wife.

If the parents’ relationship is strong, the family is strong. Read Keep Your Love On by Danny Silk for great tips and guidance on keeping connected.

28. Spiritual Immaturity

There is a big difference between childlikeness and childishness. We cannot force people into being spiritually mature and we all need patience within our Christian growth.

Marriages often fail when either one or both partners are reluctant to mature spiritually or they ridicule or judge the spiritual growth or immaturity of the other.

Remember, “love is patient… and kind”. 1 Corinthians 13.

29. Pride

Love is not proud. Pride has caused many Christian marriages to fail.

When a partner makes a mistake or says something hurtful, but is then too proud to apologize or admit to being wrong.

Pride also prevents couples from seeking counseling or help from spiritual leaders, pride says “we can fix it ourselves”.

30. Selfishness

Selfishness causes couples to not compromise. Being selfish in a relationship can cause resentment and conflict.

Selfishness tells your partner that you do not care about their feelings, views, or desires. Philippians 2:3 says “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.

Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”

31. Feelings of entitlement

The I-deserve-this feeling manifests in different ways. Some are seemingly unharmful like wanting an apology or feeling you deserve a “thank you”.

There is also harmful entitlement like using the Word as a weapon to get what you “deserve” such as sex from your partner.

We should remember that Jesus left his entitlement in heaven when he came down to earth and took what we deserved (death) upon himself.

Conclusion

Reading this list about reasons why Christian marriages fail you might feel helpless and negative, but there is hope in Christ.

Spend time with your spouse, studying each other and God’s word. Pray for one another and make time to explore each other’s hearts and get to know each other anew.

Don’t be discouraged. If you are in a marriage that seems like it is failing, hold onto the promise that “what God joined no man can separate.”

Reach out to your church community for love and help.

Watch films such as Fireproof or Indivisible with your spouse, read books together, and sign up for courses like the Love After Marriage online course.

Remember to not lose hope and to “not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6

The post 31 Proven Reasons why Christian Marriages Fail appeared first on .

To help keep God’s presence in your marriage, here are 12 ways to achieve it;

1. Praying Together will strengthen your Marriage

Cоmmunісаtіоn іѕ the foundation that саn еіthеr mаkе or a break any relationship. Prауеr is thе way уоu ѕhоuld communicate wіth God аnd you should do so аѕ аn іndіvіduаl оr соuрlе. Thіѕ іѕ the mоѕt powerful tool you hаvе as a couple.
While it’s important that you each hаvе рrіvаtе time with God—рrауіng fоr your ѕроuѕе, marriage, fаmіlу, еtс. —there’s a unіfуіng еffесt when huѕbаnd аnd wіfе jоіn in their petitions.
It brіngѕ a саlm tо ѕіtuаtіоnѕ аnd rеmіndѕ уоu whо’ѕ іn control, еvеn іf the twо of уоu are оn dіffеrеnt ѕіdеѕ of an issue.
In addition tо уоur реrѕоnаl рrауеr lіfе, be ѕurе tо рrау tоgеthеr regularly.Aѕ уоu seek God tоgеthеr as a couple, уоu wіll аlѕо drаw сlоѕеr tо each other аѕ уоu develop a dеер, close ѕріrіtuаl іntіmасу.

2. Don’t Wаѕtе Prесіоuѕ Tіmе On Unеdіfуіng Thіngѕ

Dоn’t wаtсh TV shows thаt аrе unhеаlthу. Dоn’t rеаd rоmаnсе novels оr vіеw роrnоgrарhіс images. So many thіngѕ іn thе media thеѕе dауѕ will оnlу serve tо drаw уоur аttеntіоn аwау frоm God (and away frоm уоur ѕроuѕе).
Avoid аnуthіng thаt nоrmаlіzеѕ, and even glorifies, рrеmаrіtаl/еxtrаmаrіtаl sex, drug use, dіѕhоnеѕtу, and anything wіth nudity. Don’t wаѕtе time оn nеgаtіvе, hurtful comments оn social mеdіа.

3. Fіll Yоur Day Wіth Edіfуіng Aсtіvіtіеѕ

Hаvе fеw minutes to rеаd? Whenever you get the urge to ѕсrоll thrоugh уоur social mеdіа fееd, instead, dоwnlоаd a devotional app and read frоm that.
Lіѕtеn tо uрbеаt chrіѕtіаn music around the hоuѕе аnd іn thе саr. If уоu want tо watch a movie, сhооѕе a Christian mоvіе or at least one thаt іѕ family frіеndlу.
Make ѕurе you’re uѕіng thаt time to fосuѕ оn thіngѕ that nоurіѕh уоur rеlаtіоnѕhір with God rаthеr thаn drаw уоu away frоm Him. This will go a long way in keeping God’s presence in your marriage.

4. Obey His Wоrd

Studу to show thуѕеlf аррrоvеd unto Gоd, a wоrkmаn that nееdеth nоt to be аѕhаmеd, rightly dіvіdіng thе wоrd of truth. 2 Tіmоthу 2:15
Whenever we lоvе ѕоmеоnе, wе nаturаllу оbеу thеm–lіkе a child оbеуѕ thеіr parent out оf love.  A lоvіng, godly parent іnѕtruсtѕ a сhіld tо dо thе thіngѕ ѕ/hе needs to learn, tо рrасtісе, tо dеvеlор, аnd to ѕtау ѕаfе. God is thаt lоvіng раrеnt to uѕ.
He instructs uѕ fоr this ѕаmе rеаѕоnѕ.  Submіttіng tо Hіѕ Wіll wіll grow оur marriage and kеер uѕ ѕаfе.  Don’t mіѕundеrѕtаnd, thіѕ dоеѕ nоt guаrаntее uѕ a реrfесt оr untоuсhаblе marriage.
But whеn both раrtnеrѕ are ѕееkіng Hіѕ Will аnd in turn оbеуіng it, wе will hаvе thе best роѕѕіblе marriage thаt wе саn.

5. Mеdіаtе Together

Christian mеdіtаtіоn is indeed dіffеrеnt frоm hоw ѕоmе оthеr grоuрѕ meditate, іѕ to get more оf thе truths about God into уоur heart аnd mіnd.
Marriage and lіfе provide a grеаt bасkdrор tо thіnk dеерlу аbоut the goodness, grасе and mеrсу of God.
Hence, always meditate with God in whatever issue you are dealing with in your marriage.

6. Grоw Tоgеthеr Іn Chrіѕt

Many chrіѕtіаn соuрlеѕ wіѕh thеу ѕреnt time together praying аnd еnсоurаgіng each оthеr frоm thе Bіblе, but they just dоn’t do іt.
Thеу lеt оthеr рrіоrіtіеѕ crowd оut whаt ѕhоuld bе the mоѕt important aspect оf their mаrrіаgе rеlаtіоnѕhір.
To keep God’s presence in your marriage, you need to study the word together and grow together. You can study devotionals together and this will give you the орроrtunіtу tо read the scripture, рrау tоgеthеr, аnd discuss bіblісаl topics relevant tо your marriage аnd family.

7. Sееk Knоwlеdgе

Aѕk God to give you wіѕdоm аnd undеrѕtаndіng in оur rеlаtіоnѕhірѕ and dесіѕіоnѕ. In the same vein, іt wіll take ѕріrіtuаl wіѕdоm аnd undеrѕtаndіng tо trаnѕfоrm оur hоuѕе іntо a Christ-centered hоmе. And thаt knоwlеdgе саn оnlу соmе from Gоd.
Wе hаvе nоt ceased tо pray fоr уоu аnd to ask thаt you may be fіllеd wіth the knоwlеdgе of His wіll іn аll ѕріrіtuаl wіѕdоm and understanding. Cоlоѕѕіаnѕ 1:9

8. Judge Not Each Other’s Salvation

Therefore рut оn thе full аrmоr of God, ѕо thаt when the dау of evil соmеѕ, уоu mау bе аblе to ѕtаnd уоur ground, аnd аftеr уоu hаvе dоnе еvеrуthіng, to ѕtаnd.
Stand fіrm thеn, wіth thе belt оf truth buсklеd around your waist, wіth the brеаѕtрlаtе of righteousness in рlасе, and wіth уоur feet fіttеd wіth thе rеаdіnеѕѕ thаt comes from thе gоѕреl of реасе.
In addition tо аll thіѕ, tаkе up the shield оf faith, with which уоu саn еxtіnguіѕh аll the flаmіng аrrоwѕ of thе еvіl one. Tаkе the helmet оf salvation аnd thе sword оf thе Sріrіt, whісh іѕ the wоrd оf God. –Eрhеѕіаnѕ 6:13-17
Yоu mау know уоur ѕроuѕе well but you dоn’t knоw hоw hе or she relates аnd соmmunісаtеѕ with God. Eасh person’s rеlаtіоnѕhір wіth God is іntіmаtе аnd personal.
Sometimes оnе’ѕ uрbrіngіng іnсludеѕ trаdіtіоnѕ аnd rіtuаlѕ thаt mіght bе іn орроѕіtіоn tо another’s рrасtісеѕ.
But wе еасh hаvе a unіԛuе аnd ѕресіаl соnnесtіоn wіth our heavenly father аnd іt’ѕ nоt our place to judge оthеrѕ’ relationship. Always put God first in your corrections and do not condemn.

9. Dереnd Оn Hіm

Daily depend оn Him for еvеrу need аnd dеѕіrе. Trust Hіm. Rely on Hіm. Bу honestly dоіng thіѕ tоgеthеr аnd іndіvіduаllу, God will bесоmе first іn your marriage аnd life.
Bу knоwіng thаt without Hіm wе аrе hеlрlеѕѕ, we саn run tо Hіm аnd hаvе соnfіdеnсе that Hе knows bеѕt.

10. Be Full Of Thаnksgiving

Recognize thаt every gооd аnd perfect gift іѕ frоm аbоvе and wіthоut Him, wе саnnоt have ѕuссеѕѕ іn life or іn marriage.
God іѕ thе сrеаtоr оf marriage. Thаnk Him fоr thаt! Thаnk Gоd fоr уоur ѕроuѕе аnd for thе gift of marriage tо уоur spouse.
Having a thankful hеаrt for God аnd аll Hе dоеѕ for us will саuѕе a huge love for our Lоrd and Savior. By thanking God for everything in your marriage, you are giving him room for preeminence.

11. Point Your Spouse To God

Encourage уоur ѕроuѕе dаіlу thаt Gоd is fоr him аnd thаt God lоvеѕ him/her unсоndіtіоnаllу. Prау for your huѕbаnd/wife every day.
Make it a роіnt to ask уоur huѕbаnd or wife hоw уоu can рrау for hіm/her. Prау for hіm/her when hе/she іѕ weak, confused, tіrеd, ѕееkіng God, and ѕеrvіng Gоd.

12. Create An Altar In Your Home

Therefore lеt uѕ ѕtор passing judgmеnt оn оnе аnоthеr. Inѕtеаd, mаkе up your mind nоt tо рut аnу stumbling block оr obstacle in уоur brоthеr’ѕ wау.
It’ѕ bеnеfісіаl to have a рlасе ѕеt аѕіdе ѕресіfісаllу fоr еntеrіng God’ѕ рrеѕеnсе, a рlасе thаt’ѕ rеѕеrvеd for you аnd Gоd. It dоеѕn’t hаvе tо bе a rооm with a рhуѕісаl altar; it can bе аnу area or ѕрасе thаt уоu dеѕіgnаtе for rеgulаr соmmunіоn.
This is the only way you are going to keep God’s presence in your marriage.
Pick a рlасе аnd dеdісаtе іt as уоur altar, whеrе уоu can соmе alone and as a couple tо рrау, meditate аnd соmmunе with Gоd.
In our оwn ѕtrеngth, wе wіll utterly fаіl. It іѕ only if wе follow the рrіnсірlеѕ іn God’ѕ Word that we саn be the huѕbаndѕ аnd wіvеѕ hе hаѕ саllеd us tо bе.
Thе fеllоwѕhір of thе Sріrіt, thе sovereignty оf thе Father, and thе ѕеrvісе оf thе Sоn can hеlр securely ѕіtuаtе оur mаrrіаgеѕ аt Cаlvаrу. And thеrе іѕ nо ѕаfеr or mоrе lіbеrаtіng рlасе in all thе universe.
In essence, anything wе dо to put God fіrѕt іѕ protection for оur marriage.  Having a marriage filled tо the tор wіth Jesus, іѕ thе thіng bullеtрrооf mаrrіаgеѕ аrе made оut of.

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In addition to this, every Christian woman looks forward to marrying a man who loves God and obeys his commands.

This is because God has instructed us as believers not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers 2 Corinthians 6:14.

The word of God gives us great insight into the characteristics of a godly man, and we shall explore some of them in this article.

Victorino Q. Abrugar says that the words of God can guide and teach you how to find the right man to marry and build a happy family.

Below are the top 15 awesome qualities of a godly man

#1 Responsible.

A godly man is one who takes his responsibilities very seriously and rises up when the occasion demands. God has called this man to care and oversee everything around him and guide those around him.

He is a workman approved by God for noble purposes in the church and community. He responds to the needs of those around him with the strength God has given him.

1 Timothy 3:5 asks, “For if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?”

A godly man is one who knows how to ensure there is an order in his home, whether married or single. He knows how to take responsibility for his actions when he is on the wrong. He doesn’t blame others.

#2 Submitted to Christ.

One top awesome quality of a godly man is his submission to Christ. He knows how to fight the good fight of faith and submits to the authority of Christ in his life 1 Timothy 6:12.

A godly man knows how to love a woman just like Christ loves the church.

When a man puts God first in his life, it means that he considers God the final authority in the decisions he makes. He follows the leading of the Holy Spirit and is discerning in spiritual matters.

His relationship with Christ defines his life and guides his daily actions. He no longer lives for himself but for Christ 2 Corinthians 5:15.

#3 Wise.

One of the markers of a godly man is wisdom. He is a man who turns his ear to wisdom and his heart to understanding Proverbs 2:2.

He doesn’t make rash decisions but deliberates on issues to gain clarity before making a move.

One of the awesome qualities of a godly man is the wisdom to apply spiritual insight into challenging situations. He seeks God for wisdom because that’s the only way he will remain on the right path in life James 1:5.

This is a man who knows that his human wisdom is limited in comparison to God’s wisdom, which is divine.

According to an article on The Talk 2 Prosper blog, a godly man follows God, not peers or society. He is a man who walks by faith and not by sight and doesn’t exalt worldly advice over God’s word.

Related Article: How to Become a Godly Woman Worth Pursuing.

#4 Faithful.

Faithfulness is one of the top qualities of the Kingdom of God. We serve a God who is faithful to keep his word to us and just like him, we are to be faithful.

A godly man is faithful in his relationship with God and the woman to whom he has pledged his heart. He keeps his end of the covenant he has with God.

This man does everything in his power to guard his relationship with a woman. He has healthy boundaries in his dealings with other women.

He is watchful and safeguards himself from the lure of affairs Proverbs 2:16. A godly man knows that faithfulness starts in the heart before it translates to actions.

#5 Pure.

Purity is one thing that a godly man highly values. He knows that God desires a pure heart Psalm 24:3-4 and seeks to maintain his purity in his life, especially his sexuality.

The world has many sexual temptations and a godly man guards himself against them. He knows the consequences can be far-reaching.

Brittany Lee Allen says that a man who truly loves God and loves you will not allow his own purity or yours to be destroyed.

He will fight against temptation and strive to make wise choices to keep boundaries in place. He has self-control.

#6 Peaceable.

A man of peace is one who will not give you grief in marriage or in any other relationship.

He is a man who keeps away from anger because it stirs up conflict and embraces the peace of Christ Proverbs 29:22.

A peaceable man is one you can reason with and resolves the conflict in an amicable way.

A godly man is full of the peace of Christ that surpasses human understanding. He is one who seeks peace and pursues it in all his relationships.

Many blessings accrue the man of peace because he reflects the character of his Lord.

Photo by Ben White on Unsplash

#7 Loving.

Love is a prime attribute of God and anyone who professes Christ as Lord and Savior is commanded to love others. Jesus told us in John 15:12 that we should love others as he has loved us.

A godly man is one who loves others with the love of Christ. His actions are loving and 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 guides him.

A godly man is one who is patient and kind and treats others graciously. He knows how to love himself before he attempts to love a woman.

He is loving enough to walk away from a relationship when he knows he will not marry the woman he is dating.

#8 Fruitful.

God calls us to be fruitful and has given us the way to do so, that is, to remain in Christ John 15:4. An awesome quality of a godly man is fruitfulness.

The work he does bears fruit for the body of Christ because he is a man on purpose Philippians 1:22. He doesn’t engage in fruitless work and doesn’t expect his woman to do so.

A fruitful man will spur his woman to fruitfulness and will guide her toward the one who will help her do so – Jesus.

Those who relate with him walk away feeling refreshed and can’t help but bless him.

#9 Prayerful.

Prayer is part of the makeup of a godly man. He knows that the way to effect God’s will on earth is to pray.

As a diligent son of God, he studies the principles of prayer and builds his prayer life. He covers those around him in prayer and lifts them to the throne of grace each day.

A godly man’s prayers are powerful and effective because he is righteous James 5:16. He enjoys praying with the woman he is dating or courting.

Lisa Zech notes that the man you are in or will be in a relationship with should be praying (out loud) with and for you.

#10 Meditates on God’s word.

Meditating on God’s word is a priority for a godly man. He knows it is the way to live a victorious Christian life.

He is careful to observe what it says and knows it by heart. A man who is ready to study the Bible with his woman is one who is a great asset to her.

Abiding by Joshua 1:8 is an instruction he follows diligently because it directs him toward the solution for life’s issues.

He knows that God’s word builds his faith and fills his life with God’s promises. The Bible is the final authority in his life and takes God at his word.

#11 Has Integrity.

When Joseph realized that Mary, his betrothed, was with child, he wanted to divorce her quietly. He suspected that she might have been with another man.

But being a man of integrity, he didn’t want to disgrace her but protect her dignity Matthew 1:19. Thank God an angel of the Lord stopped him from walking away.

You can count on a godly man to protect his woman from shame and disgrace. He is compassionate and will treat his woman with the utmost respect.

He is transparent in his dealings with her and doesn’t lead her on because it’s convenient for him. His life is an open book.

#12 Humble.

An awesome quality of a godly man is that he is humble and gentle at heart like his Savior – Jesus Matthew 11:29. A man of humility will not treat others with contempt or think he is way above them.

He considers himself soberly and doesn’t exalt himself. A man like this will accommodate the weaknesses of his woman and encourage her to be better each day.

Lauren Hutchinson says “A godly man is not proud or boastful. Not everyone is perfect, and a godly man realizes this.

He shares his flaws with you so that you will be able to encourage, support, and pray for him. He daily surrenders his pride to the Lord.” That sums up the humility of a godly man.

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

#13 Teachable.

A godly man knows that whoever remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed—without remedy Proverbs 29:1.

He accepts correction because he knows that he is not always right. This man is willing to learn from others because he knows everyone has something to contribute to a conversation.

Nicole Unice says that you should observe a godly man being okay with taking correction. A godly man values the advice of others and is willing to admit that sometimes he is wrong.

He allows others to speak into his life and direct him when he seems to veer off the right path.

#14 Leadership, Qualities of a Godly Man.

Alicia Marie says that God gave men a unique role in a relationship. He calls them to be leaders. This does not mean a man makes every decision for you or always figures out your life.

This means that a godly man takes the initiative to lead the relationship in the right direction. He doesn’t wait to see where things are going.

A godly man is a leader in every area of his life, whether family, church, or work. He doesn’t hide when things get tough but is quick to provide solutions.

King David was one such godly man. He led the Israelites in many battles and won. They recognized his leadership abilities because they saw him in action 2 Samuel 5:2.

#15 Forgiving.

One awesome quality of a godly man is that he is forgiving. He knows that unforgiveness blocks the flow of love in his relationships.

A godly man doesn’t hold grudges nor does he keep a record of wrongs in his relationships. A man who can bear with your shortcomings and forgive you Colossians 3:13 is one with whom you can have a long term relationship.

Jarrid Wilson advises that a woman should not reach for a man who is unlikely to forgive. That the last thing any woman of God wants us to be in a relationship with someone who holds resentment for mistakes, issues, and misunderstandings.

Conclusion

The above awesome qualities of a godly man are a good place to start identifying a man that is read for a long term relationship. God has promised to help us become better people by his Spirit.

God is pleased by a godly man who pursues him fervently.

According to Gina Burgess, purity of heart and body is a quality highly treasured by God. When a man pleases God, the windows of heaven are opened and blessings are poured out.

That is priceless. A godly man is one who is richly blessed by God and he is a blessing to others around him.

Once you know the qualities of a godly man, you can identify one easily and avoid the counterfeits. You don’t have to guess if a man is godly, look at his qualities.

The post Top 15 Awesome Qualities of a Godly Man appeared first on .

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For love to blossom between two people, they must play their roles in the relationship and nurture it through the word of God.

Below you will find the top 105 Bible verses about marriage and love to strengthen you and your significant other and loved ones.

Bible Verses About Marriage.

Marriage was God’s idea and he is the one who sustains it. The Bible verses about marriage below are ideal for incorporating into your wedding vows or devotion time with your spouse.

They will carry you through the ups and downs of your marriage. God’s word has the power to sustain your marriage.

Ephesians 5:21: “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.”

Colossians 3:19: “Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.”

Psalm 118:24: “The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad.”

Numbers 6:24: “The Lord bless you and keep you.”

1 Corinthians 7:3: “The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband.”

Proverbs 31:10: “A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.”

Ephesians 5:33: “However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”

Genesis 2:24: “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”

Mark 10:9: “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

Ephesians 5:25: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”

1 Chronicles 16:11: “Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.”

Proverbs 18:21: “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”

Related Article: 35 Powerful Bible Verses for a Broken Marriage.

Genesis 2:18: “The Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.’”

Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

Song of Songs 7:6: “How beautiful you are and how pleasing, my love, with your delights!”

James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above…”

Ephesians 5:28: “In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.”

Proverbs 31:30: “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

1 Thessalonians 3:12: “May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other…”  2 Thessalonians 3:5: “May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.”

Song of Songs 2:5: “Strengthen me with raisins, refresh me with apples, for I am faint with love.”

Ecclesiastes 4:9: “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor.”

Proverbs 10:12: “Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.”

1 Peter 3:7: “Husbands, in the same way, be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.”

Romans 12:10: “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

Proverbs 7:18: “Come, let’s drink deeply of love till morning; let’s enjoy ourselves with love!”

Psalm 46:7: “The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.”

Ephesians 5:2: “And walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”

Song of Songs 4:9: “You have stolen my heart, my sister, my bride; you have stolen my heart with one glance of your eyes, with one jewel of your necklace.”

Bible Verses About Love.

Photo by Justin Groep on Unsplash

Love is a bond that holds relationships together. It is a decision one makes to love another unconditionally.

Love is for every type of relationship or friendship you have in your life. If you don’t know how to express your love for another you can draw inspiration from the Bible verses below.

John 15:9: “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.”

1 Corinthians 13:6: “Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.”

Proverbs 3:3: “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.”

1 John 2:5: “But if anyone obeys his word, love for God[a] is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him.”

Galatians 5:13: “…serve one another humbly in love.”

Ephesians 4:2: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”

1 John 3:23: “And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us.”

Philippians 1:9: “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight.”

Hebrews 12:6: “Because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”

Jude 2: “Mercy, peace, and love be yours in abundance.”

1 John 2:15: “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.”

Psalm 143:8: “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.”

1 Corinthians 13:8: “Love never fails…”

1 John 4:11: “Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.”

Jude 21: “Keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.”

Song of Songs 8:7: “Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one’s house for love, it would be utterly scorned.”

1 John 4:16: “And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.”

Colossians 3:14: “ And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

1 Corinthians 16:14: “Do everything in love.”

Related Article: Christian Marriage Advice For Couples: # 17 Will Surprise You.

1 John 4:17: “This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world, we are like Jesus.”

Galatians 5:22: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.”

Proverbs 10:12: “Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-5: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”

1 John 4:19: “We love because he first loved us.”

2 John 6: “And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.”

John 15:17: “This is my command: Love each other.”

Bible Verses About Relationships.

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Relationships can be hard to navigate. Each person comes into the relationship with their successes, failures, emotional baggage, among others.

This can sometimes complicate a relationship. You can get wisdom from Bible verses about relationships so that you can navigate yours with wisdom.

Allow God to guide you as you make choices in your relationship.

Ephesians 4:2: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”

1 Peter 4:8: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

John 15:12: “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”

Song of Songs 1:3: “Pleasing is the fragrance of your perfumes; your name is like perfume poured out. No wonder the young women love you!”

Colossians 3:13: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

Philippians 2:5: “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:”

Romans 12:10: “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Proverbs 16:2: “All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord.”

John 15:12: “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”

Romans 12:9: “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.”

Proverbs 19:21: “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”

1 Thessalonians 5:22: “Reject every kind of evil.”

Proverbs 19:22: “What a person desires is unfailing love; better to be poor than a liar.”

1 John 3:18: “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”

Psalm 51:10: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”

Proverbs 20:6: “Many claims to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find?”

1John 4:18: “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”

Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit…”

Bible Verses About Friendship.

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Friends make our lives easier and they stand with us during good and bad times. We need friends who want the best for us and always encourage us to be better people.

The Bible verses below about friendship will help you pray over those you share your life with daily. They will also help you be a better friend.

1 John 2:10: “Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble.”

Proverbs 12:26: “The righteous choose their friends carefully…”

1 Thessalonians 4:9: “Now about your love for one another we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other.”

1 John 3:11: “For this is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another.”

John 13:34: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

Romans 13:10: “Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.”

Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”

1 Peter 3:8: “Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.”

1 John 3:17: “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?”

Proverbs 4:6: “Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.”

Proverbs 27:5: “Better is open rebuke than hidden love.”

Hebrews 10:24: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”

Matthew 22:39: “And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

Psalm 119:63: “I am a friend to all who fear you, to all who follow your precepts.”

John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

Romans 12:12: “Better is open rebuke than hidden love.”

1 Peter 2:17: “Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.”

Romans 14:15: “ If your brother or sister is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy someone for whom Christ died.”

1 John 4:12: “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.”

John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”

Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

Luke 6:31: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.”

Proverbs 22:11: “One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend.”

1 John 4:21: “And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.”

The Bible verses above will light your path as you walk through the journey of marriage or friendship. You can study the Bible verses on marriage with your spouse and enrich your relationship.

Experience the power of God’s word every day of your life.

The post Top 105 Bible Verses About Marriage and Love appeared first on .

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No one wakes up expecting their marriage will fail, but the truth is: marriage doesn’t always go as planned.

Sylvia Smith says, when couples stop sharing things with each other and expressing themselves, they weaken their chord of connection.

That when this connection becomes fragile, their relationship loses its strength. And this is one of the signs of a failing marriage.

Fixing a broken marriage requires the help of God. He is the author of marriage and knows how to bring you and your spouse into agreement again.

According to Meg Bucher, there are no perfect solutions to fix broken marriages. God is the One we can trust to heal a broken marriage.

Below are 35 powerful Bible verses for a broken marriage.

1. Proverbs 3:5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”

When things are not going right with your spouse, don’t blame them but turn to God for help.

God knows the genesis of your problems and will walk you through the process of dealing with them.

2. Ephesians 5:28 “In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.”

Husbands are to care and love their wives as they do themselves. This applies to the wife too if the marriage is going to work.

3. Mark 10:9 “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

This is a good verse to declare over your marriage when other things or people threaten to separate you and your spouse.

Trust in God’s ability to keep your marriage together despite the issues plaguing it.

4. Colossians 3:19 “Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.”

It’s important for husbands to know that their wives like to be treated with gentleness.

Being harsh with your wife crushes her spirit and makes her resent you. Show love to your wife and speak to her graciously.

5. Proverbs 3:3 “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.”

Love and be faithful to your spouse in good and challenging times. Show your commitment to your spouse wholeheartedly like you promised when you took your vows.

Related Article: 15 Prayers for a Deeply Troubled Marriage.

6. 1 Peter 4:8 “Above all, love each other deeply because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

Let your love for your spouse have its roots in the love of God because God’s love is unfailing. Loving your spouse enables you to forgive them whenever they wrong you.

7. Song of Solomon 4:10 “How delightful is your love, my sister, my bride! How much more pleasing is your love than wine, and the fragrance of your perfume more than any spice!”

A husband ought to meditate on the love his wife showed him when things were good in the marriage. That love still exists.

8. Matthew 6:12 “And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”

God has forgiven your sins in Christ and enables you to forgive your spouse’s offenses against you. Forgiveness precedes the healing of your marriage.

God can reconcile your hearts when you are at peace with each other.

9. Mark 11:24 “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”

When things are not going right in your marriage, pray and believe God will act. Martin Forgenie says prayer can repair any relationship no matter the level of damage. He has powerful prayers for your marriage.

10. Malachi 2:16 “The man who hates and divorces his wife,” says the Lord, the God of Israel, “does violence to the one he should protect,” says the Lord Almighty. So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful.

As a husband (or wife), guard your heart against hatred and unfaithfulness. Protect your spouse with your love and let divorce not be your first option.

11. Psalm 37:7 “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him…”

Waiting for God to answer your prayers for your marriage is not easy. Trust that God is working even though you don’t see it. Be still so you may hear him speak to you.”

12. Hebrews 13:4 “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.”

Honor your marriage vow to remain faithful to your spouse. Flee from any temptation to be sexually intimate with anyone other than your spouse.

13. Proverbs 24:29 “Do not say, “I’ll do to them as they have done to me; I’ll pay them back for what they did.”

Vengefulness will only kill your marriage fast. Don’t repay evil with evil but with good. Pray for your spouse when they treat you with contempt.

14. 1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

Repent when you do wrong to your spouse because God promises to forgive you. He will show you the right way to relate to your spouse so you live in peace.

15. Song of Solomon 2:16 “My beloved is mine and I am his…”

Your spouse belongs to you because of the covenant relationship you have. Enjoy every moment with him or her and have a full life together.

16. James 4:8 “Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

Draw near to God and encourage your spouse to do the same. God will purify your hearts and restore the righteousness of your marriage.

17. Ephesians 6:12 “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Don’t attack your spouse because he or she is not your real enemy. The devil may be using them to attack you so as to separate the two of you. Recognize your real enemy and fight him.

18. Isaiah 62:5 “As a young man marries a young woman, so will your Builder marry you; as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you.”

God rejoices over your marriage because he is the author of it. Rejoice in your spouse.

19. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

When you build and encourage each other, your marriage becomes stronger. A strong marriage will weather the storms of life. Your relationship will also be solid and stable.

Related Article: 15 Awesome Prayers for Marriage Restoration.

20. Romans 15:5-6 “ May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Your thoughts toward your spouse should be like those of Jesus. When you are one in mind, you act as a unit and that brings God glory.

Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

21. Ephesians 4:2 “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”

Interact with your spouse in humility and bear with his or her weaknesses. Instead of judgment, show love.

22. Philippians 2:3-4 “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

You and your spouse are one, therefore consider his or her concerns and opinions. Look out for the interests of your spouse and avoid selfish behavior.

23. Proverbs 10:12 “Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.”

Don’t allow your heart to hate your spouse. Hatred will keep you in spiritual bondage and poison your marriage.

Ask God to pour his love into your heart with which you can love your spouse.

24. Ephesians 4:25 “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.”

Be honest and transparent with your spouse always. God will only vindicate you when you are honest and have no hidden motives toward your spouse.

25. Psalm 1:1 “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers.”

Avoid friendships with those who don’t respect and honor marriage. Your friends should be people who lead you to God to seek solutions for the issues in your marriage.

26. 2 Corinthians 12:9 “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness…’”

God’s grace will carry you through the difficult moments of your marriage. It is not easy to endure turmoil as you wait for God to give you a breakthrough.

27. Ephesians 4:29 “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Talk to your spouse with kind words that will build him or her up. Unkind and rude words will tear down your spouse and create distance between the two of you.

28. James 5:16 “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.

The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

Apologize to your spouse where you are on the wrong. Pray for each other because none of you is perfect. God will heal you and restore your marriage.

29. Hebrews 10:23 “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.”

I have hope that God will fix what is broken in your marriage. It is his will that you and your spouse remain married. He is faithful in keeping his promises.

Related Article: 13 Powerful Prayers that will Heal a Broken Relationship.

30. Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control…”

Ask God to help you deal with whatever blocks the manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit in you and your spouse.

31. Ephesians 4:17 “So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking.”

Conducting your marriage as the world does will bring unnecessary difficulties that will threaten to end it. Uphold the principles in the word of God concerning marriage.

32. Song of Solomon 8:7 “Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away…”

Believe the love you share with your spouse is strong enough to weather the storm you are going through in your marriage. If it is a real love it will stand the test of time.

33. 1 Corinthians 13:6 “ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.”

Ask the Lord to help you check your heart to see if there are any secret evil desires. Only God can show you if you have any and help you deal with them.

34. Proverbs 24:3 “By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding, it is established.”

Employ wisdom in all the affairs of your marriage. Seek divine wisdom which is superior to human wisdom.

35. Matthew 18:21-22 “Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”

Commit to forgiving your spouse every time they wrong you.

In closing

Lynette Hoy emphasizes the importance of grieving your loss in your broken marriage. She recommends facing the loss of your broken marriage with God.

And where you struggle to accept the reality of the loss, consider professional counseling. I leave you with Dannah Gresh’s words on marriage.

“As wonderful as love in marriage is, it will never be a fulfilling love unless we first saturate ourselves in the unfailing love of God.”

Bible Verses for a Broken Marriage Recourses

1. Healing Your Marriage When Trust is Broken by Cindy Beall
2. Hope for the Separated: Wounded marriages can be healed by Gary Chapman
3. Marriage on the mend by Clint and Penny A. Bragg

Bible Verses for a Broken Marriage Podcast

Is Your Marriage in Crisis? by Dave and Ashley Willis

The post 35 Powerful Bible Verses for a Broken Marriage appeared first on .

Nobody said it was going to be easy. Maintaining a happily married life takes a lot of hard work and dedication from both parties.

When Christian couples feel they have fallen short of showing their devotion to their partner, they, of course, turn to the Bible for guidance.

If you’ve been feeling a strain in your union lately and feel the need for Christian marriage advice, then you’re not alone.

It is normal for two people in a marital relationship to feel exhausted or down in the dumps at some point.

Luckily, the Bible is here to help you navigate the way back to a blissful marriage.

1. Your Marriage Should Be Your Top Priority (Always!)

“Therefore, a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” – Genesis 2:24

God created the bond of marriage with one foundational rule mentioned in Genesis 2:24. This makes your spouse your first priority. Time has a funny way of evaporating quickly.

That’s why we make choices. It is those choices that define our life. Therefore, living a happily married life depends on keeping that fundamental rule of always putting your spouse first.

Everything else comes second. That includes your work, friends, hobbies, parents, and even kids.

The importance of making your marriage your first priority is also reflected in the book “Making Marriage Simple” by authors Harville Hendrix and Helen LaKelly Hunt.

2. Reassess Your Needs.

“Therefore, what God has joined together, let not man separate.” – Mark 10:9

This verse is also a part of a wedding ceremony as a reminder that what God has united in holy matrimony should not be separated.

In other words, once the vows have been exchanged, we should not even consider leaving our spouse.

This is where reassessing one’s needs can be fruitful. The book “His Needs, Her Needs” by author Willard F. Harley is a fool-proof guide that can also be used to make your marriage work.

3. Forgive and Be Forgiven.

“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32

We live in a fallen world, and as a result, sometimes fall short while dealing with the daily challenges of married life.

When that happens, it is important to acknowledge our shortcomings and forgive each other… because forgiveness will bring you back to God.

A 2011 study was carried out by the University of Tennessee found that romantic partners who were offended by their spouse, but forgave them, were found to be more satisfied in their relationship as compared to those who refused to forgive their partners.

It was found that the act of forgiveness after a transgression can help restore both commitment and closeness between couples.

Of course, remorse and repentance will also be a big part of the process.

4. Share and Grow Together.

After the conga lines and the honeymoon are over, the real work of living together “till death do us part” begins.

It is important to see your marriage as an adventure instead of just something you’ve achieved or a box you ticked to meet society’s requirements of a “normal person.”

Remember that when you’re in a marriage, growing apart is not something that happens overnight. It is a slow process that occurs over a period of time.

Whether it’s an interesting story in the news, or their plans, or something they read in the Bible, couples who share what they learn each day grow together.

To make sure running errands or the dishes doesn’t come in between an opportunity to make a connection and grow closer to your spouse, it is important to share and grow together.

Related Article: 15 Prayers for a Deeply Troubled Marriage.

5. Don’t Be Quick to Judge Each Other.

“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” – Matthew 7:1-2

There is hardly any verse of the Bible that is more disobeyed then Matthew 7:1. Keep in mind that it is a sin to judge someone, in this case, your spouse.

With time, it gets easy to replace the “we” with a “you,” as in, “you’re terrible with money, and are going to ruin us.”

When a married couple finds themselves struggling, it is important to stop and study God’s Word and learn from the Christian marriage advice that’s shared with us in the Bible.

6. Don’t Keep Score.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV

Often times, married couples make the mistake of taking the bookkeeping approach to their relationship.

How often do we hear that little voice in our head saying to use, “there’s no need to do something nice for my spouse until they do something nice for me.”

Keeping score can hurt your marriage and will end up straining the bond that you once had with your spouse.

7. Pray Together.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” – Philippians 4:6

“The family that prays together, stays together.” These aren’t just words that rhyme. Prayer is the foundation of any Christian household.

It is pray that gives us direction and shows us the way to be kind, loving, and accepting toward others.

Praying together as a family creates an unbreakable spiritual connection with God and with each other. As the scripture says, a threefold cord isn’t easily broken.

By seeking out God not just to protect you, but also your spouse, prayer can help strengthen your bond and bring you closer to Christ.

That’s exactly what prayer can do for a married couple, and that is why it is paramount for married couples to pray together.

8. Build Them Up, Don’t Break Them Down.

“And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” – Peter 1:8

If you’ve been breaking your spouse down by talking about them behind their back or name-calling, it’s time to stop.

Regardless of how strong you think your spouse is, name-calling or talking smack about your partner with friends can affect them negatively.

Your spouse is the person you have chosen to spend the rest of your life with.

So, rather than name-calling or talking behind their back, which can tear them down and leave them feeling demotivated, motivate them, and build them up.

9. Sticks and Stones CAN Break Bones.

“Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.” – Colossians 3:19

The same goes for name-calling. Sadly, more often than not, during an argument, couples resort to name-calling without realizing the emotional pain that one is left with after being verbally devalued.

In a marriage, verbal abuse can happen out of nowhere. Sometimes, it’s just something mean that your spouse thought of at the spur of the moment.

Other times, it can be more insidious and calculating, causing the person on the receiving end to start questioning themselves.

Name-calling, condescension, demeaning comments, and even criticism can all take its toll on a marriage, and therefore, should be avoided at all costs.

photo by Hian Oliveira on Unsplash

10. Be a Partner Your Spouse Can Rely On.

“You husbands, in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with someone weaker, since she is a woman; and show her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered.” – 1 Peter 3:7

In the book, “It’s Not You, It’s the Dishes,” authors Jenny Anderson Horne and Paula Szuchman elaborate on how even the simple things can simmer until they explode in a huge argument.

It is important to remember that marriage is a partnership. Rather than keeping track of things like who unloads the dishes, takes out the trash, or drops the kids to school, be a partner your spouse can rely on.

11. Don’t Be a Perfectionist.

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” – Matthew 6:33

It is important not to become a perfectionist and have unreasonable expectations of your spouse. Remember, your spouse is not supposed to be the solution to all of your problems: God is.

As humans, we are all flawed, and it’s not fair for couples to search for perfection in their partners, but rather, work on one’s own flaws first.

The best thing about being married and sharing this life with another person is that each of you gets to work on your shortcomings together.

12. Compliment Each Other.

“In the same way, husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.” – Ephesians 5:28

Be quick to tell each other how thankful you are for the things you do for one another. When one feels acknowledged and appreciated, it only makes them want to do more.

This can be extremely valuable when it comes to sustaining a relationship, even when going through rough patches. Every couple experiences ups and downs in a marriage.

As John Gottman, the author of “The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work,” says, “it is important not to take even the smallest things that you do for each other for granted.”

13. Learn How to Laugh Together.

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31

They say that laughter is the best medicine. Well, it definitely is in a marriage. Life can definitely be stressful sometimes.

From household appliances breaking down to the kids not doing well in school, to getting stuck in traffic.

There are a number of things that can suck the laughter out of one’s life (if you let it).

For married couples, the best weapon against stress is laughter. A good laugh can easily break the tension in any stressful situation and will give you a chance to take a step back and see the big picture.

Couples that have been married for a long time know the importance of having jokes to share as you move forward.

14. Respect Each Other’s Rights Over You.

“Let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.” – Ephesians 5:33

One of the things that the Bible tells us when we look to it for Christian marriage advice is that your spouse has certain rights over you.

In other words, once you’re married, your spouse has more rights over you than your parents.

While the Bible also advises wives to respect their husbands, it is important for both parties to obey the Word of God by loving and respecting their partner.

15. Rebuild Broken Trust.

“And now these three remain faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” – 1 Corinthians 13:13

Trust is a fragile thing. Like a mirror, once broken, it can never be the same. But, that’s no excuse to lose all hope for your marriage.

Whether trust was broken because of a lie or something far more serious, such as infidelity, both parties need to sit together and work out a solution for the sake of their marriage.

While the person in question needs to be remorseful and repentant of their actions, it is equally important for the other spouse to be forgiving and allow their partner to rebuild broken trust.

In his book, “The Trust Factor: How To Rebuild Trust In Your Marriage,” Tony DiLorenzo speaks of ways in which couples who are experiencing the pain of broken trust can still pick up the pieces of their marriage and create a bond that’s even stronger.

Related Article: 15 Awesome Powerful Prayers for Marriage Protection.

16. Contribute to Your Marriage.

“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” – Romans 12:9:

Being in a marriage is all about equality. But don’t just take our word for it. Zelmyra and Herbert Fisher have been married for 8 decades (or 87 years to be precise) and were recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records in 2008, as the oldest living couple.

You should not expect your spouse to put in all the physical effort, financial contribution, and emotional labor while you don’t fulfill your end of the bargain. Meet your spouse halfway.

A happy marriage is a joint effort. The advice that Zelmyra gave to young couples during a touching interview in 2010 was:

17. Be Intimate Often with Your Spouse.

“Marriage is to be held in honor among all, and the marriage bed is to be undefiled; for fornicators and adulterers, God will judge.” – Hebrews 13:4

It is important not to let your duties in the bedroom become a chore. Having a healthy intimate relationship with your spouse should not be treated as just another boring routine.

Do not forget that once married, having a healthy intimate relationship with your spouse can strengthen the bond of marriage, and will save you and your spouse from sins such as adultery.

18. Incorporate Touch into Your Lives.

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” – Ephesians 5:25

Touch is a powerful way to express our romantic passion can help us communicate deep feelings in a simple way.

To touch the person you love is to not only acknowledge their presence but also communicate your desire for them.

Some people might find this only appropriate for the bedroom, because of the overemphasis of sex in the media.

However, it is important to incorporate non-sexual touch, such as holding hands or hugging whenever possible, to help you grow closer in your relationship with your spouse.

19. Do Not Commit Adultery.

“Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.” – 1 Corinthians 6:18

Committing adultery is one of the biggest sins in the Bible. While a man is weak, that’s no excuse to give in to our basic instincts.

Not only would it ruin a marriage, but also our faith, since it goes against God’s command.

20. Don’t Let Others Get in Between Your Marriage.

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Ever heard the saying, “Too many cooks spoil the broth?” Involving too many people in a marriage can result in unpleasant situations, whether the people giving you the advice are related or not.

Before seeking out the advice of others, know this, you know your spouse best. You know the best way forward for both of you.

When married, it is important not to be swayed by the advice, opinions, and judgments that are passed by others.

Keeping that in mind, it is important to keep all third parties at bay when it comes to the matter of your marriage.

Photo by Pablo Heimplatz on Unsplash

21. Communication is a Two-Way Street.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” – James 1:5

There is no doubt that marriage can be a complex and multi-faceted relationship. This is why it is important to communicate freely with your spouse.

Whether it is making plans for your future or working out a solution to a problem, it helps to be able to talk openly and freely to your spouse.

22. Learn to Communicate in the Language of Your Spouse.

“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” – Proverbs 25:11-15

No. This does not mean learning another language (although that might help). We all grow up learning to communicate in different styles.

Some grow up in families where communicating openly is encouraged, while others use more sensitive ways of communicating.

The key to building a stronger marriage is by learning to speak in the language of your spouse, even if you are not comfortable in communicating in that way.

So, the next time you and your spouse are arguing with regard to what to watch on TV, just pause and listen before figuring out what to say.

23. Don’t Be Afraid to Share Your Secrets.

 “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment.

The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4: 18-19

Couples should be comfortable sharing their most intimate secrets with their partners without being afraid.

All good marriages thrive on an open exchange of emotions and desires, regardless of how tough life can get sometimes.

If your marriage is faced with communication problems, then its time you turned to the Bible and God for Christian marriage advice.

24. Try to Keep Things Fresh.

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” – Ephesians 4:2

Let’s face it; the seven-year itch is real. This basically means, whatever you needed a year, 5 years, 10 years ago, you probably don’t need anymore.

This is primarily because your spouse has helped you fill that void.

When the needs of a couple of change, it’s important to ask each other what things could be done differently, rather than thinking about calling it quits.

25. Revisit Your Vows.

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.” – 1 John 4:7 ESV

While not a common practice, renewing your vows can be the best thing you can do for your marriage. A vow renewal is a way of celebrating your marriage and the years you’ve spent together.

Whether it has been 20 years or just 2, renewing your vows is a great way of showing your spouse (and the world) that you’re so happy, you’d do it all over again.

If your marriage is going through a rough patch lately, then renewing your vows can be a great way of reaffirming your commitment to your partner and your marriage.

Even though you have the Word of God to guide you, it wouldn’t hurt to get some help.

Marriage Fitness with Mortel is a marriage crisis program that helps couples overcome even the most difficult obstacles in their marriage.

The post Christian Marriage Advice For Couples: # 17 Will Surprise You appeared first on .

God’s intention is for your marriage to succeed and bless you and your spouse.

Photo by Diana Simumpande on Unsplash

Divorce is not what he desires for any couple (Malachi 2:16). Alisa Nicaud notes that God wants to redeem our marriages.

He wants to mend the broken and redeem what’s been lost. That he wants to restore purity, love, respect, honor, understanding, and kindness, among others.

According to Pamela Lipscomb, the institution of marriage is God-ordained. But just because God ordains something does not mean it will be easy.

Marriage comes with challenges that can overwhelm you to the extent of seeking a divorce.

Before you entertain thoughts of divorce, give God a chance to heal and save your marriage from divorce. Pray God’s word over your marriage and believe him for its salvation.

Below are 15 Powerful Prayers To Stop Divorce And Restore Marriage.

1. Prayer to forgive your Spouse.

Colossians 3:13 “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

Lord, I have many grievances against my spouse and I am struggling to forgive him/her. Grant me the grace to forgive because you have forgiven me.

Walk me through the journey of forgiveness step-by-step and take away the hurt and anger I feel.

Help me to bear with my spouse knowing that no one is perfect and we all need others to be gracious with us. Help my spouse to forgive me for my mistakes and shortcomings in our marriage.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

2. Prayer for Repentance.

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

Lord, thank you for your promise to forgive me when I sin against you. I repent of all the ways I have not treated my spouse with love and kindness.

Forgive me for being selfish and expecting that my spouse will change first before I do. I have not had the commitment to save this marriage and I repent of this attitude.

Purify me from all unrighteousness and restore a right spirit toward my spouse. Fill me with your love that I can share with my spouse during this trying time.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

3. Prayer to know your hidden Faults.

Psalm 19:12 “But who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults.”

Lord, you are Light and you expose everything hidden in darkness. Show me my hidden faults so I can bring them before you in repentance.

I know there are many hidden sins in my heart that I don’t recognize most times until you reveal them to me.

Help me open my heart to you and allow you to point out my sins against you and my spouse. Show me where I have not walked in your ways regarding marriage.

Grant me the grace to make amends with my spouse.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Related Article: 15 Prayers For A Deeply Troubled Marriage.

4. Prayer to walk in God’s Light.

1 John 1:6 “If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth.”

Lord, thank you for your light that directs my steps each day. Let your light shine on my ways in my marriage so I will not walk in darkness.

Show my spouse and I all the ways we have allowed darkness in our marriage. We want our marriage guided by your light because it exposes what lurks in the darkness.

Help my spouse and I go back to having fellowship with one another. May our fellowship with you help us see each other in your light.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

5. Prayer to remain rooted in Christ.

John 15:7 “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”

Lord, you are the true vine that holds our marriage together. Help my spouse and I remain in you and hide your word in our hearts so that you will hear and answer our prayers.

I thank you that when I ask anything in line with your will, you answer and fill my heart with joy.

Grant my spouse and I the grace to ask for what we want to see happen in our marriage. Save our marriage from divorce since it is not your will for us.

Heal our hearts and restore the love we have lost.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

6. Prayer for faith, hope, and Love.

1 Corinthians 13:13 “And now these three remain faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.”

Lord, you are the beginning and the end of all things. Today I ask that you restore faith, hope, and love in my marriage. Without these three, it will not survive.

Strengthen my faith and that of my spouse so we can continue to believe in your saving power for our marriage. May we keep our eyes on Jesus who is the author of our faith.

Give us hope that our marriage will heal and thrive like it once did. Help us trust in your word and not our current circumstances.

Restore the love we once had for each other. Rekindle the fire of love and romance and help us to open our hearts to each other again.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Photo by Luis Alberto Sánchez Terrones on Unsplash

7. Prayer for Humility.

Psalm 18:27 “You save the humble but bring low those whose eyes are haughty.”

Lord, you have said that you give grace to the humble but bring low the haughty. Help my spouse and I to walk in humility toward each other.

Forgive us for the sin of pride and keep us away from it.

Help my spouse and I to humble ourselves before you so that you can save our marriage. We have tried to save it in our strength and have failed.

Save our marriage from divorce and give it a new lease of life.

8. Prayer for God’s Healing.

Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Lord, thank you for your precious promise to always be close to me when I am brokenhearted. You are my healer and deliverer and I ask you to heal my wounded heart and that of my spouse.

We have hurt each other and can’t undo the pain.

Take away our discouragement and disappointment. Wipe away our tears and soothe our wounded souls. Revive our crushed spirits and help us to get back on our feet.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Related Articles: 15 Prayers For Marriage Restoration.

9. Prayer for God’s quick Salvation.

Psalm 40:13 “Be pleased to save me, Lord; come quickly, Lord, to help me.”

Lord, you are my savior and helper and I run to you today for your salvation. Come quickly and save my marriage from divorce.

I have no other hope but you. It is only you who understands the problems plaguing my marriage. You know the root causes and how to deal with them.

Deliver my spouse and I from everything that threatens to separate us. Help us for we are drowning and you are the only one we can hold on to.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

10. Prayer against Divorce.

Malachi 2:16 “‘The man who hates and divorces his wife,’ says the Lord, the God of Israel, ‘does violence to the one he should protect,’ says the Lord Almighty.

So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful.”

Lord, thank you for your word that gives me direction in my marriage. Take away the thoughts of divorce that my spouse and I have.

Help us protect each other and our marriage despite divorce staring us in the face.

Grant us the grace to remain faithful to each other in thought and deed and to pray for each other.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

11. Prayer for Wisdom.

Proverbs 2:17 “Wisdom will save you also from the adulterous woman, from the wayward woman with her seductive words, who has left the partner of her youth and ignored the covenant she made before God.”

Lord, you say that if we lack wisdom we should come to you. Give my spouse and I the wisdom to keep ourselves away from those who want to come between our marriage.

Help each of us not to entertain the thought of having an affair for it is not a solution to the problems we are experiencing.

Keep us away from those who want to seduce us and make us dishonor our marriage vows.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

12. Prayer for Deliverance.

Job 6:23 “…deliver me from the hand of the enemy, rescue me from the clutches of the ruthless’?”

Lord, you have declared that no weapon formed against me will prosper. Today I ask that you deliver my marriage form the enemy.

All weapons, plans, and schemes of the enemy will not take down my marriage. I refute every tongue that declares the demise of my marriage.

Deliver my marriage from a spirit of divorce and keep my spouse and I firmly established in your love.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

13. Prayer for Agreement.

Amos 3:3 “Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?”

Lord, thank you for being an ever-present help in times of need. My spouse and I have lost the agreement we had over our marriage and we operate like two separate entities.

Help us to come into agreement in our marriage so that we can rebuild it.

Remind us that we are one flesh and should operate as one. Give us unity in our marriage and the desire to make decisions together. May the affairs of our marriage be of importance to us.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

14. Prayer for Divine Intervention.

Luke 18:27 “Jesus replied, ‘What is impossible with man is possible with God.’”

Lord, you are full of mighty power. There is none like you and no other god can be compared to you. I ask you to perform a miracle in my marriage and rescue it from divorce.

My spouse and I have tried to save it in our strength but we have failed.

Restore our marriage to its former glory that it may be an encouragement and inspiration to other couples. Deliver us from divorce and a life of misery and fill our hearts with your joy.

Related Article: 75 Powerful Bible Verses to Pray over your Marriage.

15. Prayer for remaining in God’s Love.

Ecclesiastes 4:12 “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”

Lord, you are the one who keeps us together in our marriage. We took our marriage vows before you because we wanted you to be a part of it.

Help us to remain in your love that binds us together. With you, we can work through the issues that are threatening to end our marriage.

Help us withstand the storms in our marriage and give us victory over them.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Conclusion

The above 15 Powerful Prayers To Stop Divorce And Restore Marriage. Praying God’s word over your marriage will bring the power of his word to it.

Leslie White says that God can save your marriage if you allow him to do so. She notes that too many couples resort to divorce before seeking God’s counsel.

You may feel justified in getting a divorce because of what your spouse has done to you. However, turn to God first because he will save your marriage from divorce.

He will restore what is broken and make your marriage better than it was before.

Powerful Prayers To Stop Divorce And Restore Marriage Resources.

1. Love Must Be Tough by Dr. James Dobson
2. I Don’t Want a Divorce by Dr. David Clarke with William G. Clarke, MA
3. Fighting for Your Marriage by Howard Markman, Scott Stanley, and Susan L. Blumberg
4. The Power of Prayer to Change Your Marriage by Stormie Omartian

The post 15 Powerful Prayers To Stop Divorce And Restore Marriage appeared first on .

You need to protect your marriage from infidelity, boredom, staleness, third parties, strife, fear, and selfishness.

Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

Judy Star, in her article on Family Life, says, “To stand firm in the battle for our marriages, we must be prepared. We can never assume that having a good marriage shelters us from temptation.”

Protect your marriage today and save yourself a lot of heartaches.

Prayer and the Word of God are the best ways to protect your marriage from danger.

According to Lesli White, the Word is powerful and prayer is essential. But combining the two is even more powerful.

Below are 15 powerful prayers for marriage protection

Prayer for God to Protect your Marriage

Psalm 16:5-6 “Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.”

Lord, I thank you for bringing my spouse and I together as a married couple. We are better together than apart because a chord of two is stronger.

You have watched over our marriage from the beginning and you have helped us when we needed you. I place my marriage in your hands where it is secure.

Protect everything within the borders of our marriage.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer against the Attacks of the Enemy

Ephesians 6:10-12 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Lord, I put on your armor today to stand against the schemes and plans of the evil one in my marriage.

Help me not to fight my spouse but the real enemy who wants to remain hidden.

Destroy the works of the devil in my marriage and keep my spouse and I safe.

Teach us to discern when the enemy wants to attack us so we can stand against his wickedness in prayer.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer against Unknown Enemies

Song of Songs 2:15 “Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom.”

Lord, you have helped our marriage flourish and we enjoy your blessing upon our lives.

I ask that you protect our marriage from the little things that can destroy it without our knowledge.

Show us how to keep away unwanted enemies that want to destroy the marriage my spouse and I have built.

Bless the fruit of our marriage and may it nourish the lives of others around us.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Related Article: Top 9 Powerful Prayers that will Change Your Marriage.

Prayer to walk in Agreement

Amos 3:3 “Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?”

Lord, help my spouse and I to walk in agreement all the days of our lives so we don’t leave room for strife and arguments.

Show us how to operate as one and live in unity in every area of our lives.

May we work on our disagreements without fighting or arguing and always turn to you for wisdom. Remind us we are one and we are to make decisions together.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer for God’s boundary around your Marriage

Zechariah 2:5 “‘And I myself will be a wall of fire around it,’  declares the Lord, ‘and I will be its glory within.’”

Lord, be the boundary around our marriage and protect everything we have entrusted to your hands.

Keep out all threats to our marriage and hide us from the evil plots of the wicked.

May our marriage bring you glory because we live according to your principles. Let the fire you ignited in our marriage continue to burn and keep us together.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer for Wisdom in Praying

James 4:1-3 “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill.

You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight.

Do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.”

Lord, help my spouse and I not to quarrel over what only you can give us. We commit to praying over what we each desire instead of fighting and quarreling over it.

Forgive us for quarreling instead of praying and seeking your face. Teach us to pray over each other with the right motives so you can answer our prayers.

Thank you for answering our prayers and making our joy complete.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer to Love and respect each other

Ephesians 5:33 “However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”

Lord, I praise you for the gift of marriage you have given me. Teach my spouse and I to love and respect each other. A husband needs respect, and a wife needs love.

Help us not to withhold these things from each other. It is when we meet each other’s needs that we protect our marriage from outside threats.

Show us how to identify what the other needs and to meet that need.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer against temptation

Mark 14:38 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

Lord, thank you for your words of wisdom, that we should pray so we don’t fall into temptation. Protect my spouse and I from temptations that can ruin our marriage.

Help us not to live by the flesh but by the Spirit to avoid temptations to sin. Strengthen our spirits that we may obey your commands concerning marriage.

Keep us from the pleasures of the world and turn our hearts to your desire for us.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer to consider your spouse in your actions

1 Peter 3:7 “Husbands, in the same way, be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.”

Lord, Help me consider my spouse in my actions and respect him/her always so that my prayers will not encounter any hindrance.

Grant me the grace to treat my spouse with respect and always consider his/her opinion. May we live in peace and remember to honor you in all our ways.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer for your protection and that of your spouse

Isaiah 65:24 “Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.”

Lord, I praise you because you have promised to answer before I call. You have assured me you will always hear my prayers and answer them.

Today I ask that you protect my marriage from all its enemies and threats. Protect my spouse and I from dangers that we cannot see.

Keep us from anything that might cause us to consider divorce.

Teach us to pray according to your will so you will answer our prayers.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer against conforming to the pattern of the world

Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

Lord, thank you for teaching us your ways. You have helped us avoid dangerous paths that would have destroyed our marriage.

Where we have conformed to the pattern of this world, show us so we will turn to your ways.

We long to live according to your will and I ask that you show my spouse and I how to do so as we read your word.

Renew our minds as we meditate on your word.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer against attacks from the enemy.

1 Peter 5:8 “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

Lord, you always keep me safe from the enemy and his plans for my marriage. Help me be alert at all times and come to you with anything that doesn’t sit well with my spirit.

As the enemy prowls around looking for who to destroy, may he not find me or my spouse. Show me all the doors he may use to attack my marriage so I can close them.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer for commitment in marriage

Genesis 2:24 “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”

Lord, thank you for the gift of my spouse. You have kept us together all these years and I praise you for that.

May my spouse and I keep our focus on each other and build our marriage according to your word.

You united us in holy matrimony and I ask you to keep our bond strong and long-lasting. Give us the commitment to be together during difficult times and bear with one another.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer against the secret plots of the wicked

Psalm 12:7 “You, Lord, will keep the needy safe and will protect us forever from the wicked.”

Lord, you know all the enemies that want to see our marriage destroyed. Keep them away from our marriage and hide us beneath your wings.

Protect us from the secret plots of the wicked and may their plans fail.

Whatever they plan for our marriage will never see the light of day because you are the God who keeps your children safe.

May your angels encamp around my spouse and I and deliver us from the enemy.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Related Article: 75 Powerful Bible Verses to Pray over Your Marriage.

Prayer for strength

2 Thessalonians 3:3 “But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.”

Lord, I praise you because you are faithful to keep your word over our marriage. You brought my spouse and I together and I know you have plans to keep us together for life.

When we are weary from the troubles that come with marriage, strengthen us by the power of your Spirit. Protect us from the devil who seeks to separate my spouse and I.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Conclusion

The 15 prayers above are to protect your marriage as you seek God’s face against the plans of the enemy. Both of you should commit to praying for themselves and each other.

Prayer will build a wall of protection around your marriage and keeps it strong.

Tim Challies brings out the importance of a man protecting his wife spiritually. He says that a man ought to commit to praying for her and holding her up before the throne of God.

Erin Smalley of Focus on the Family, suggests a wife can pray for her husband’s challenges, for the Lord to protect and shield him, expand his wisdom, and develop his convictions.

Make prayer a priority in your marriage and experience the power of God to protect it.

Prayers for Marriage Protection Resources

Books

1. The Love Dare by Alex Kendrick and Stephen Kendrick
2. Love and Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs
3. His Needs Her Needs by Willard F. Harley, Jr.
4. The Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie Omartian
5. The Power of a Praying Husband by Stormie Omartian

YouTube Video

• Protecting your Marriage by Jimmy Evans

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