Page 87 - Family Life Student Textbook

Study Section 15: Preparation for Marriage

15.1 Connect
Since building a Godly marriage relationship and a Godly heritage is so important, how can we
prepare ourselves for marriage? How can we develop ourselves to be the best possible marriage
partner? How can we exercise wisdom in choosing a marriage partner with whom we can build a
good marriage and serve God together?

In the two Appendices of this course, we have suggested dozens of questions you can ask yourself and your
intended about marriage. The questions will help you prepare for marriage, because if you cannot answer
them, then you will need to take more time in preparation. Being prepared to enter into marriage will
insure that the beginning of your marriage will be peaceful and filled with joy. Let learn some principles
about marriage BEFORE you walk the isle…

15.2 Objectives
1. The student should be able to describe good principles involved in preparing ourselves for
marriage, wisely choosing a partner, and building a relationship in preparation for marriage.

2. The student should be able to give valuable guidance to singles as they move in the direction of
marriage.

15.3 Singles would do well to carefully evaluate the following principles in preparing for
marriage.

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A) Seven Principles involved in the proper timing of marriage

1) Don't get married until you find someone you a esteem, not simply a body to be lusted. Each
person should write out their definition of marriage. Answer the question, “Why do you think the
two of you should get married?”

2) Don't get married until you find someone who is compatible with you. Opposites do attract. Opposites
also attract sparks and fights. Do not marry someone who is totally different from you. In Genesis 2 God said
that he would make a helper that corresponds (that fits) with you.”

We can be different in personality, in skills, and in other unique ways. But the more alike we are in the major
areas of life, the easier married life will be. Find someone with the same belief system, cultural background,
spiritual maturity level, and with the same goals in life.

3) Don't get married until you know the person well. In the New Testament couples were basically
engaged for a year. Do not rush into a marriage relationship.

4) Don't get married until you find someone with the same goals in life. You should have the same belief
system. Make sure you were going the same direction in life. The Bible commands us not to be unequally
yoked. This certainly applies to the strong bond of a marriage relationship. We ought not to marry someone
who is not a believer. And even if the other person is a Christian believer, we need to assess the level of

9 taken from “Don’t Get Married Until-“ by Dr. Stanley D. Toussaint
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