Preparing for a Successful Marriage

CUSTOMS AND THE BIBLE

Bride-Price and Dowry:  In some lands the groom's family is expected to give money tot he bride's family  (bride-price). In others,  the bride's family gives money to the groom's  (dowry).  There may be nothing wrong with these customs as long as they are legal.  (Romans 13:1)  However, in either case, the receiving family should avoid greedily demanding more money or goods than is reasonable.  (Proverbs 20:21; 1 Corinthians 6:10)  Further, the paying of bride-price should never be construed  to imply that a  wife is simply purchased property; nor should a husband feel that his only responsibility toward his wife and his in-laws is a financial one.

Polygamy:  Some cultures allow a man to take more than one wife.  In such an atmosphere,m the man may become an overlord rather than a husband and father. Furthermore, Polygamy marriage often fosters  competition among wives.  For Christians,  (God's Word in the Bible) allows only singleness or monogamy (In other words, only one wife) -1 Corinthians 7:2. 

Trail marriage:  Many couples claim that living together before marriage will them test out their compatibility. Yet, trial marriage does not test one of the crucial elements of marriage-commitment.   No arrangement other than marriage offers the same degree of protection and security to all parties-including any children that may result from the union. In the eyes of Jehovah God, living together consensually  without the benefit of marriage is fornication.  -1 Corinthians 6:18; Hebrews 13:4.

Note: There is no need for trial marriage, it is not like a car that you try out before you buy. You can get to know each other by just dating and spending time with each other.  Couples just use that excuse to have sex, because they feel the need to release that passion.  TAKE A COLD SHOWER! Or walk it off. There is no excuse for committing fornication. Yes, it may take more time, but if you are living together, it still takes time, just use some bloody restraint here!  If you can't be together without having sex, than that is all your relationship is about; and not a good reason to get married in the first place. 


Next time: Preparing for a Successful Marriage/KNOW YOURSELF FIRST

From the book; The Secret of FAMILY HAPPINESS