Words of Life for Your Life Together

1. The Foundation: Covenant & Unity

These verses remind the couple that marriage is a sacred bond designed by God, not just a legal contract.

• Genesis 2:24: “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”
• Ecclesiastes 4:12: “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
• Mark 10:9: “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

2. The Standard: Biblical Love

This category defines love as an act of the will and a commitment to the other person’s well-being.

• 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud… It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
• 1 John 3:18: “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
• Colossians 3:14: “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

3. Communication & Conflict Resolution

Essential for navigating the inevitable challenges of daily life.

• James 1:19: “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
• Ephesians 4:26: “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.”
• Proverbs 15:1: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

4. Forgiveness & Grace

Because two imperfect people are coming together, grace must be the “oil” that keeps the gears moving.

• Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave 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.”
• 1 Peter 4:8: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

5. Spiritual Leadership & Partnership

Verses that speak to the roles and mutual respect within the home.

• Ephesians 5:21: “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.”
• Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
• Joshua 24:15: “But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

Required Reading: Tying The Knot: A Premarital Guide to A Strong & Lasting Marriage by Rob Green