Introduction to Marriage Preparation

As a Christian preparing for marriage, it's important to consider the right resources and perspectives. Marriage is a significant commitment that requires both personal and spiritual preparation. While reading books by experts can provide valuable insights, it's also important to consider your own beliefs and experiences. This article explores recommended books, personal reflections, and the perspective of ministerial guidance.

Recommended Books for Marriage Preparation

Love and Respect

By Emerson Eggerichs

A foundational book that encourages mutual respect and understanding in a relationship. This book aims to enhance communication and connection between spouses, fostering a more respectful and loving marriage.

The Five Love Languages

By Gary Chapman

Understanding each other's love languages can greatly improve communication and connection. This book helps couples identify their own love languages and communicate to ensure mutual understanding of love and how to express it.

The Power of a Praying Wife and The Power of a Praying Husband

By Elizabeth George

These books emphasize the importance of prayer in maintaining a strong and joyful marriage. They provide practical guidance on how to pray effectively for your spouse and together as a couple.

Other important preparatory books include Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend, and Changes That Heal by Henry Cloud. These books offer insights into setting clear boundaries and understanding the emotional changes that come with marriage.

Personal Reflections on Marriage

While books can offer valuable perspectives, personal experiences and self-reflection are equally important. Reading what others have written can provide insights but can also be limiting, as marriage is a deeply personal journey. Reading books should be part of your preparation, but it's crucial to integrate your own beliefs and feelings into the process.

Ministerial Guidance and Marriage Laws

When choosing a minister for your wedding, it's important to understand the legal and cultural context of marriage. In many areas, marriage is defined as one man and one woman, reflecting traditional societal norms. However, some opponents of same-sex marriage argue that these definitions are no longer valid.

One question that often arises is: When and who changed the definition of marriage? Historically, the definition of marriage has evolved over time. In the United States, the definition of marriage has shifted as societal norms and values have changed. Same-sex marriage became legal in the U.S. following the landmark decision in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015, stating that both same-sex and opposite-sex couples have the constitutional right to marry. You can discuss this with your minister to gain a clearer understanding.

Religious perspectives on marriage can vary widely. The KJV Bible emphasizes the strength and permanence of marriage: “And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from the man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. And the man said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” (Genesis 2:21-24, KJV)

Jesus taught that marriage is a commitment for life and emphasizes the importance of maintaining that commitment: “Therefore what God has joined together, let no man tear apart.” (Matthew 19:6, KJV)

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Preparing for marriage is a journey that involves personal reflection, mutual understanding, and spiritual growth. While reading books can provide valuable insights, it's equally important to consider your personal beliefs and emotions. Understanding the legal and religious perspectives on marriage is also crucial. Ensuring you have a clear understanding and personal commitment to the relationship you are entering is key to a successful and fulfilling marriage.