Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” – Mark 10:9
The Foundation of Engagement
Engagement symbolizes a commitment to one another, one that reflects God’s design for relationships. To engage means we are promising to share our lives, and this is not a light matter. As we prepare for this significant step, we need to build our foundation on love, faith, and mutual respect. God desires for us to find our partners in ways that reflect His love. When we think about engagement, it brings about the idea of unity. We are becoming one, and that unity begins while we are engaged. Let us consider our engagement as both a promise to our partner and an affirmation of our relationship with God. We remember that this commitment will not only bind us to one another but also to God’s purpose for our lives together.
Genesis 2:24
“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” – Genesis 2:24
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Ephesians 5:25
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” – Ephesians 5:25
Colossians 3:14
“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” – Colossians 3:14
Song of Solomon 8:6-7
“Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame.” – Song of Solomon 8:6-7
The Role of Communication in Engagement
As we step into engagement, it is crucial that communication becomes a priority in our relationship. Good communication allows us to express our hopes, dreams, and even our fears with one another. Our engagement period should be a time to share not just the joyful moments but also the challenges we might face together. We can look to the Bible for guidance on how to communicate with love and honesty. With a foundation of clear communication, we can strengthen our bond and grow together in faith, trusting that God is guiding our relationship. Engaged couples should strive to have open, honest discussions that promote understanding and trust, further entwining our hearts.
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
Proverbs 16:24
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” – Proverbs 16:24
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” – Ephesians 4:29
Philippians 2:4
“Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” – Philippians 2:4
The Importance of Prayer during Engagement
Engagement is a time where we should seek God diligently through prayer. By committing our relationship before God, we allow Him to lead us through this beautiful season. It is essential that we not only pray for our future together but also pray with one another, inviting God into our lives. We should take time to lift our partner in prayer, asking for guidance, wisdom, and protection. This is an opportunity for us to deepen our connection and grow spiritually as a couple. When we dedicate our engagement to prayer, we align our hearts with God’s purpose, and this aligns with His desires for our relationship.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20
Psalm 37:4
“Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4
The Value of Counseling in Engagement
During engagement, it can be beneficial for us to seek counsel, whether from trusted mentors, family, or spiritual leaders. Engaging in premarital counseling offers us tools to navigate the complexities of our relationship. By participating in counseling, we create a space to discuss our expectations, boundaries, and shared values. This step is not a sign of weakness, but rather a proactive approach to fortify our commitment. It provides an opportunity to understand each other better and identify areas of growth. With every conversation and session with a counselor, we can prepare ourselves for a lifetime of love and support.
Proverbs 11:14
“For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” – Proverbs 11:14
Proverbs 20:18
“Plans are established by counsel; by wise guidance wage war.” – Proverbs 20:18
Proverbs 15:22
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” – Proverbs 15:22
1 Peter 4:10
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10
Ecclesiastes 4:9
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9
The family dynamics play a significant role in our engagement journey. Our families often bring their experiences and blessings into our lives as we prepare for marriage. We should envision our union with gratitude and respect for our families’ perspectives. Their support and involvement can offer wisdom and understanding as we take this important step. It is essential to recognize that our relationships with our families can influence our engagement positively. As we honor our family bonds, we also honor the commitment we are making to one another.
Exodus 20:12
“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” – Exodus 20:12
Proverbs 17:6
“Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.” – Proverbs 17:6
Psalm 127:3
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” – Psalm 127:3
1 Timothy 5:8
“Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” – 1 Timothy 5:8
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Celebrating Engagement
Engagement is a significant milestone in our lives, and we should take time to celebrate this wonderful phase. Celebrations allow us to express our love and joy for one another publicly. It is a time to create memories with friends and family who will support us as we transition into marriage. We can approach these celebrations with gratitude for the blessings God has bestowed upon us. Whether big or small, our engagement celebrations foster deep connections and let those around us share in our excitement. We can reflect on the journey thus far and anticipate the adventure ahead, strengthened by the people who love us.
Psalm 126:3
“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” – Psalm 126:3
Ecclesiastes 3:13
“That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.” – Ecclesiastes 3:13
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Psalm 95:2
“Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.” – Psalm 95:2
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the topic of engagement, we see the significance of love, commitment, and connection. This season in our lives is not just about a ring; it’s about a promise to one another and to God. Communication, prayer, and counseling are invaluable tools that we can embrace. We recognize the support of our families and the importance of celebrating this joyful milestone. Our engagement can be a time of growth and preparation, setting the stage for a beautiful marriage rooted in faith. Let us take the lessons from the Word of God and apply them to our lives as we embrace this dedicated time together.
For those of us seeking further guidance, I encourage you to explore Bible verses for a woman looking for a husband and Bible verses about kissing. These topics can provide additional insights and encouragement as we continue on this beautiful journey of love.