“How much do you put in your marriage as you prepare for the wedding day? Do you think about what lies ahead beyond the wedding day? …….Marriage is not just about the flair and splendor of the wedding day. Wrong perception about marriage has potential to damage or ruin your marriage.”

These are the words the Pastor opened his marriage blessing talk with as he addressed the soon to be married couple on a nice warm sunny day.

He went on to read Ephesians 5:22-33 after which he explained what Marriage is and what it is not.

5 Things that Marriage isn’t

1. It’s not about Sexual Fantasy

A man should not lust after his wife. It is not about fulfilling those desires. Spouses should not treat each other as sex objects.

2. It’s not about the man being the Breadwinner

Men, you need to communicate openly about finances and not allow ego stand in your way. Your wife is your helper, it is about teamwork.

3. It’s not about Your Wants and Needs

Learn to sacrifice for your spouse. Do not be working and spending too much time doing your hobbies or work and therefore frustrating your spouse. Compromise is key.

4. It’s not about your Passions

Your passion should not come before your spouse. Don’t let your ambition and ego go before your marriage. Marriage is your number 1 priority.

5. It’s not about your happiness as an Individual but Collective happiness as a Couple

Meet each other halfway. He went on to indicate that this list is not exhaustive and more could be added to it.

5 Things that Marriage is

1. Marriage is the beginning of Family and Lifelong Commitment

It allows you to grow and serve one another.

2. Marriage is Oneness

It gives us a life partner to move through life with, someone you can be most vulnerable with. Someone you can share your innermost feelings without being embarrassed or ashamed.

3. Marriage is about Purity

Bond of marriage gives us strength to resist temptations. Being married helps you to resist temptations that are outside because you now have your own person to be with.

4. Marriage is an opportunity for Parenting

Children benefit more being raised in a loving home with both parents.

5. Marriage is Love

It mirrors love that God has for us.

With this statement, the Pastor went on to quote 1st Corinthians13:4-8 which talks about the qualities of love.

The couple were urged to Love one another unconditionally.