Covenant

The term covenant means "coming together." In the Bible it is translated in the Hebrew over 300 times. In the Old testament the word is bond. It is a bonding.

In marriage a covenant is intended by God to be a lifelong, fruitful, relationship between a man and a woman. It is a vow to God, to each other, our families, and the community, to remain steadfast in unconditional love, reconciliation and sexual purity, while purposefully growing in the covenant marriage relationship. It is the binding, or establishing a bond between two parties, with the concept of "cleaving" or "sticking together." This is a promise not to be taken lightly.

Marriage is a holy union (Mark 10:9) it is to be held in honor by all (Hebrews 13:4)

Look beyond the emotions and the butterflies; because these euphoric feelings will pass. Until death do us part may be a long time. Love is not always a feeling, it is a choice. Luke 14:28 says, no man builds a house without first counting the cost.

Consider and choose wisely. Ephesians 5:21-33

For the Women

Women, remove your mask and be the woman God has called you to be. Do not be independent, but be dependent on God. There is a difference between independence and strength. Let your strength be that inward quiet beauty that God loves; let it radiate through you.

Quit demanding respect. God has a plan and a purpose for everyone; men and women. Do not usurp the man's position by dem...anding yours.

If you are single, do not look for that perfect man... he does not exist. Work on you and let your Heavenly Father, who is perfect, bring your husband to you. Do not awaken love before it's time. Remember, you were purchased at a great price, the blood of Jesus has redeemed you. You are a precious treasure, not a cheap trinket. You are to be cherished. Do not give your body and your heart and your soul away to a man who is not your husband. In God's time He will bring that man to you. That man will only find you if he is chasing after God. So, be so hidden in Him that you will not be deceived by the counterfeit. God wants much more for you. Trust God's standards.

Mothers, teach your daughters to be women. Let your speech be gentle, truthful and non-demanding. Do not belittle your daughters father, build him up. Be grounded in Gods Word and not the world.

Wives, honor your husbands. Build your home to be a refuge for him. Keep the fire hot, the world is a cold place, he needs your warmth. Respect your husband, he has the responsibility to be head of your home. Do not take lightly his burden of accountability to lead. Be his helpmeet. Stand beside him, watch for his blind spots and cover him in prayer.

It is not the paycheck that determines the head of the home, it is God. Because He loves you, He has designed the blueprint for marriage. Trust Him.

You cannot change your husband, only God can do that. Your husband needs a wife, a helpmeet; not a mother, a boss or a competitor.

Know who you are and Who He is and who you are in Him.

Let your family rise and call you blessed.