7 Key Ingredients for a Strong and Lasting Godly Marriage

Do you want to have a lasting godly marriage? Well, you are about to get the what I like to call the ingredients to having a lasting one!

Marriage is like a intricate tapestry, woven together by two hearts and guided by the hand of the Lord. Without His divine influence, this sacred bond wouldn’t be as powerful or enduring. When a husband and wife come together in unity, it’s a beautiful reflection of God’s love and grace. While some may attempt to navigate the complexities of marriage without His guidance, it’s like trying to sail a ship without a compass – challenging and uncertain. By incorporating these 7 essential practices, inspired by the wisdom of the Almighty, you’re laying a solid groundwork for a godly marriage that not only survives but thrives. While there are countless ways to nurture your relationship, focusing on these foundational principles will help strengthen your bond and create a lasting legacy of love. Let’s embark on this journey together and build a marriage that stands the test of time!

1. Pray together daily

“Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” – Mark 10:9

Imagine a triangle, where the closer you and your spouse draw to the Lord, the closer you become to each other. When it comes to decision-making, the most important partnership is between God and your spouse. Cutting God out of the equation can lead to a downward spiral. It’s easy to start veering off course and rely on our own or others’ opinions, especially from extended family. Instead of letting external voices guide you, prioritize listening to what God has in store for your marriage. He knows what’s best for you both, and by seeking His guidance together, you’ll strengthen your bond and build a solid foundation for a thriving relationship.

2. Communicate openly and honestly

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Effective communication is like a key that unlocks trust and strengthens your bond. By sharing openly and honestly, you’re laying the groundwork for a godly relationship that’s built on transparency and understanding. Cultivating a friendship rooted in trust is essential for weathering any storm that comes your way. The way you speak to each other matters deeply – are your words filled with grace and mercy? In moments of difficulty, approaching conversations with kindness and understanding can make all the difference. When you prioritize open communication, you create a safe space where you can navigate challenges together with love and respect.

3. Serve one another selflessly

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45

In marriage, serving each other is about going the extra mile to show love and appreciation in unexpected ways. It’s not just about traditional roles, but about expressing care and thoughtfulness through simple gestures. Whether it’s a husband surprising his wife with flowers or a wife leaving a sweet note for her husband, these acts of service strengthen your bond and create moments of joy and connection. By showing compassion, offering comfort, and practicing patience during challenges, you’re building a foundation of love and support that will sustain your relationship through all seasons.

4. Forgive each other freely

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13

Forgiveness is a cornerstone of a strong godly marriage, especially in the face of challenges that test your bond. As a godly couple, you’re a shining example of Christ’s love and unity, which can attract negative forces seeking to sow discord. It’s crucial to follow the path of forgiveness, just as the Lord forgave us, to overcome any obstacles that come your way. Holding onto grudges and letting anger fester only serves to create distance and tension in your relationship. Life is too short to dwell on conflicts. Instead, embrace the power of forgiveness, allowing you to heal, reconcile, and move forward with grace and understanding. By freely extending forgiveness and releasing grievances, you’re fostering a marriage grounded in love, compassion, and resilience.

5. Support and encourage each other

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

This verse highlights the power of unity and mutual support in a godly marriage. It’s about building a deep friendship rooted in acceptance and admiration for each other, quirks, imperfections, and all. Through the highs and lows of life, you’re there to uplift and strengthen each other in every aspect, whether it’s finances, parenting, or decision-making. When challenges arise, having that unwavering support system allows you to navigate tough times with resilience and grace. Together, you form a dynamic duo that can weather any storm and emerge stronger on the other side.

6. Seek God’s guidance together

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6

Trusting in the Lord wholeheartedly is the compass that guides us through the maze of life and relationships. His wisdom surpasses all human advice and opinions, providing clarity and direction in every decision we make. God speaks to us through His Word, through the people He places in our lives, and through the circumstances we encounter. When we surrender our own understanding and trust in His divine guidance, we open ourselves to the limitless possibilities and blessings He has in store for us as a married couple. By seeking God’s wisdom together, we invite His presence to illuminate our path and lead us forward in unity and purpose.

7. Keep Christ at the center of your marriage

“Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” – Ecclesiastes 4:12

With Christ as our anchor, we stand united against any storm that comes our way. By intertwining our lives with His, we create a bond that is unbreakable and unwavering. This trio of husband, wife, and God forms a powerful force that shields us from the enemy’s attacks. To keep Christ at the center means starting each day in prayer, living out His Word in our actions, and seeking His guidance in all we do. When we prioritize His presence in our marriage, we walk in His strength and love, fortified to face any challenge that may arise.

In our journey towards a healthy and godly marriage, it’s essential to remember that progress takes time and effort. The key lies in our commitment to strive for excellence in each area, knowing that God is with us every step of the way. He sees our efforts, understands our struggles, and desires for our marriages to flourish. Despite the challenges we may face, it is through these very trials that God’s transformative power is at work, shaping us and strengthening our bond.

As we reflect on these seven foundational pillars, may they serve as a compass guiding us towards deeper unity, love, and grace in our marriages. Embrace these principles, apply them in practical ways, and watch as your relationship blossoms into a testament of God’s love and faithfulness. Remember, it’s a journey, not a destination, and with God as our guide, we can navigate the path ahead with confidence and joy.

Here’s to thriving marriages rooted in God’s wisdom and grace. Enjoy the journey! Here are some more free tools to help your marriage thrive and I pray that you will love your freebie to help get you started ! It is only the beginning!