Preparing for a Covenant Marriage

Most of us would respond with a resounding “YES.” You may say you believe marriage is a covenant relationship and that you want this kind of relationship for yourself but how you live our life reveals what you really believe.

God does have a plan for your marriage. He desires to see your love grow and bear fruit. The goal of a covenant marriage is not to merely enjoy each other’s company nor is it to simply endure to the end. The goal of a covenant marriage is to glorify God in your relationship and to exemplify Christ to the world.

As you look at your present relationship to God and your spouse we encourage you consider these actions.

ØAs individuals, evaluate your present lifestyle and relationships based on God’s Word.

ØIf you are divorced and there is the possibility for reconciliation and restoration of your marriage, seek God’s will in reconciling with your spouse. If that is not possible, ask for God’s forgiveness and direction in accordance with His Word and your local church family.

ØIf you are sexually active in your relationship with your fiancé you need to understand that God views this as a sin. Ask for God’s forgiveness and for His strength to abstain from all sexual activity that dishonors Him and your spouse-to-be.

ØIf you are preparing for marriage:

· Consider using the covenant marriage statement, found on this site, as a guide for your marriage preparation.

· Participate in at least six marriage preparation classes or private sessions.

· Participate in the FOCCUS marriage preparation inventory.

· Consider using a covenant marriage wedding ceremony.

· Study the workbook Covenant vs. Contract: Experiencing the Blessing of God In & Through Your Marriage.

ØIf you are already married:>

· Participate in at least four classes or private sessions for newly married couples.

· Participate in an annual covenant marriage enrichment retreat.

· Participate in a study of the workbook Covenant vs. Contract: Experiencing the Blessing of God In & Through Your Marriage.

· Participate in ongoing marriage enrichment courses.

· Affirm the covenant pledge printed in this brochure and pray that God will enable you to remain true to the covenant. (This can be done in private or as a part of a corporate worship experience.)

· Participate in some form of Bible study for couples.

· Request help in times of stress in your marriage.

· Secure resources from your church that will assist you in keeping your covenant.

· Seek professional help through your church if intervention is necessary.

ØAs you grow in your Covenant Marriage we encourage you to:

· Become involved in the marriage ministry of your church.

· Participate in a couple-to-couple mentoring relationship.

· Participate in a mission or ministry project as a couple.

ØEncourage and support your congregational leaders as they set the pace in leading your congregation to become a Covenant Marriage Congregation.

ØJoin other couples in celebrating the activity of God in marriages and communities by registering your commitment with the Covenant Marriage Movement office. One of our goals is to document the number of couples in our nation and around the world who have taken a stand on behalf of Covenant Marriage.

View the Couple’s Brochure