The hottest topics of conversation are about relationships, dating, love, and marriage. Especially around the holidays. As a single man looking for my wife I think of these topics probably every day. As a Christian, I believe God instituted marriage when He established a covenant relationship between Adam and Eve. Plus, I’ve studied the Bible to know it oftentimes uses marriage to depict God’s relationship with His people.

I believe everyone should acknowledge the importance of marriage and family, as it is at the core of every strong community. Families are universally recognized as an important source of support and security.

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This past Sunday at church, Jada Edwards taught on the book of Revelation. The message essentially was about Jesus’ role in end time prophecy. However, what struck me the most was a story she told about her wedding, when she married Pastor Conway Edwards over 20 years ago. It’s always interesting to me when leaders talk about their personal lives, as oftentimes Christian leaders are very uncomfortable discussing anything about their personal life, regardless if their truth has a positive or negative connotation.

In her sermon (around the 18 minute mark), First Lady Jada Edwards spoke on the different phases of marriage according to Jewish tradition. While teaching on the different phases of marriage, she revealed an interesting detail about her wedding ceremony, as her wedding ceremony modeled Revelation chapter 19 in the Bible. Revelation chapter 19 details the second coming of Christ and the rapture, which is when Christ returns to judge humanity and marry his bride (the church).

She stated her father walked her (bride) down the aisle first… then Pastor Conway (groom) walked down the aisle and met her.

While sitting in my seat listening to her speak, I thought to myself, “Well, that’s a little different than any wedding I’ve attended.” So, I sat upright and listened more intently… thinking to myself, “Maybe I might learn something new today.” 🙂

Jada further stated that she and Pastor Conway wanted their wedding to give a picture of what it is like for the bride to remain ready and waiting. As in western culture everything is generally about the bride, in regards to the wedding ceremony, however the traditional marriage ceremony in western culture doesn’t truly represent the original intent of a Biblical marriage.

Jada also spoke on the Parable of the Ten Virgins. Essentially the parable is about how we are supposed to be prepared for the second coming of Christ.

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Ok… I’ve been to a lot of weddings. I will admit each wedding was a little different, or had its own uniqueness. But, I’ve never seen a wedding where the bride walked down the aisle first, followed by the groom. Nevertheless, I understand the Biblical reasoning why Jada and Pastor Conway would want their wedding ceremony to be done that way.

A Biblical marriage is more about establishing a covenant agreement between a man and a woman, than it is about being happy.

I did a little research on Jewish traditions and American traditions in regards to a wedding ceremony. Afterwards I believe there is no right or wrong way to do it. What I feel matters the most in a marriage can be summarized in the following ten points:

Ten Aspects of a Godly Marriage

1. God Blessed Marriage – a marriage can be done any way. Since God blessed marriage, at least try to do it God’s way.
2. Complimentary – men and women are different. In a marriage, the differences between men and women should actually compliment each other physically, mentally, and socially.
3. The Two Become One – a godly marriage is not two people living separately. It’s two people who sacrifice their individuality for a corporate purpose.
4. Lifelong commitment – marriage was designed to last until death.
5. Love and Respect – men and women share responsibility in loving and respecting one another.
6. Compatibility – a husband and wife should have similar goals and values. It’s very difficult to respect and enjoy being around someone who you don’t like or disagree with.
7. Sexually faithful – almost everyone has sexual needs. Sex is natural. So obviously, it’s important to have sex. Just do not have sex (whether physically or in your heart) with anyone outside of your marriage.
8. No marriage is perfect – expect to have disagreements. Learn to agree to disagree. Although divorce is an option, it was never intended to be. Do not marry someone you have trouble forgiving.
9. Intentional and Intimate – since a marriage mirrors the relationship God has with His people, people should be intentional about being transparent, honest, and sincere with their spouse without fear of judgment.
10. Marriage is Precious – never treat anyone better than how you treat your spouse. Your marriage and family should be your proudest accomplishment and your biggest investment.