The Foundation of Marriage

Marriage Requires a Foundation Beyond Ourselves

Many couples enter marriage focused on their own needs and expectations ("me, me, me"), but lasting marriages require putting God at the center. When both partners say "God, God, God" instead of "you, you, you," transformation begins and the relationship can be built on solid rock rather than sand.

Common Marriage Struggles Emerge Around Years 12-15

Couples typically face significant challenges around 12-15 years of marriage when pressures mount from raising children, career demands, aging parents, and unmet expectations. These struggles reveal the idols and self-centeredness we brought into the marriage, which God graciously brings to light so they can be addressed.

Essential Questions Before Marriage

Men should ask themselves: "What am I inviting her into?" rather than "Will you complete my single life?" Women should consider: "What am I saying yes to?" beyond their childhood fantasies of a Prince Charming. Without clarity on these foundational questions, couples build on false expectations.

FAITH Acronym for Marriage Success

Follow Christ together, Accept each other fully, cultivate true Intimacy (being fully known), Trust in God's power and promises, and maintain Hope in something real and eternal. Only God provides the unchanging foundation needed for marriage to withstand life's storms.

Faith as the Unbreakable Bond

Using the hand illustration: when faith in God (middle fingers locked together) is the foundation, even when sickness/health, rich/poor, and better/worse pull us apart (thumbs and pinkies separated), the marriage covenant (ring fingers) remains secure. Without God at the center, these pressures will tear the relationship apart.