Have you really examined your goal for having a big wedding ceremony?
Why are you even having a wedding ceremony?
When you read what it says about wedding ceremonys and marriage in Genesis, you find a really dynamic vision of hope.
From the very beginning of humanity, people have special. Unlike the animals, we are self aware. We talk. We make things. We are creative. We have the ability to share life-long relationships.
Do you understand how important connection is. I mean the connection of a loving relationship where people are committed to each other as in marriage. This connection gives purpose to our lives and sustains us in the face of struggle. This connection is a precious gift.
Woman is never given as a slave or door mat or conscience. Woman is given to help Man by sharing his dominion over the world and responsibility for Gods creation. When Man gazes upon Woman, he is stricken with a throbbing passion, a deep awe, and wonder. Bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh
Why do a man and a woman feel such emotional draw between them? Certainly it is more than pheromones and more that sex. This force that pulls people together is undeniably some kind of divine design.
If we look at the second and third chapters of Genesis, we find a divine design for family. Unlike most animals, God gave people the freedom and desire to create families. A man and a woman embrace each other. All other relationships become secondary. The priority becomes their marriage and home. Notice, however, this family is built not on force, control, or domination, but it is founded on a giving relationship. God gives so we give.
When you build a house, you need a detailed blueprint. The same is true when you start a marriage or family. You need a design that works. If you design is flawed, you may spend years combating misery. But if you follow a good design, you will enjoy peace and joy abundantly. One of the key elements of a good marriage design, is generous giving. Bad design is selfish.
When you stand before the minister at your wedding, you probably have not thought about the problems you will face in marriage. Within weeks you will, however, discover little irritants, flaws, and disappointments. If you allow them to fester, they can destroy. So, as you plan your wedding ceremony, consider what you are pledging and afterward do it. If you promise to live, do it. If you promise to honor, do it. Focus on your contribution to the marriage and set aside your expectations. In your giving, you will find true satisfaction.
A wedding ceremony is not a graduation. A wedding certificate is not a diploma. A wedding ceremony is a celebration of love and family. It is a moment of commitment. It is a time to set the rules for your marriage.
As a wife, your mission is to love, honor, and respect your husband. He needs these in order to feel loved. When you commit yourself to making your husband feel like a king, you invest in your marriage. As a husband, your job is to provide for, protect, and comfort your wife.
However, a husband who fails to earn the respect of his wife makes it very hard for her to love him. A husband must work hard to care for his wife, and doing so will make it easier and easier for her to love him.
Why do you want to be a wife or husband? Is it so somebody will listen to your whining and complaining? Is it so you can have control over someone? Or is it because you want to give yourself in admiration, respect, and love to your partner?
Why are you planning a wedding ceremony? If your goal is to launch a marriage and family, take great care to examine what promises you make and what your partner will need. Focus on your giving instead of taking. Then you will be blessed.