How to Build a God-Centered Marriage and Turn a House into a Home

Building a Marriage and a Home That Lasts: A Faith-Filled Journey

The ring sparkled as the couple shared their dreams and became engaged. Another couple just purchased their first home and is now in the midst of planning their wedding. There’s an outpouring of texts, phone calls, and messages filled with congratulations from friends and family. These are moments of celebration and joy—but now comes the real work.

Marriage and home-building are lifelong journeys. The responsibility, commitment, and effort required to truly blend two lives into one, and to transform a house into a home, cannot be underestimated. It doesn't happen in a day, a week, or even a few years. It takes a lifetime of intentional love, patience, and perseverance. A successful marriage and a warm, inviting home require more than excitement—they demand daily dedication. But here's the beautiful truth: it can happen!

The Foundation of a Lasting Marriage: God at the Center

For any couple hoping to build a life together and turn their house into a true home, it’s essential to place God at the center. Yes, you'll need plenty of love, grace, forgiveness, communication, and resilience—but a Christ-centered marriage has a stronger foundation.

Think of it this way: instead of one lump of clay being shaped by the Potter, there are now two. God is forming them together into one beautiful, unified vessel. It’s a process—often messy and challenging—but it results in something truly extraordinary.

The Power of Submission and Mutual Respect

In today’s world, the word "submit"—especially in the context of Ephesians 5—can feel uncomfortable. But submission, in the biblical sense, is not about power or control. It’s about mutual respect, love, and humility. A healthy, God-honoring marriage requires submission from both partners—and from children too, if there are any.

It takes a great deal of give-and-take, selflessness, and sacrifice to create a loving family. But when each member commits to loving and serving the others, the home becomes a sanctuary.

A Word of Encouragement from 44 Years of Marriage

From someone who’s been blessed with a wonderful wife for nearly 44 years—though far from a perfect example—I offer this encouragement:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor [especially your spouse] as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” — Mark 12:30-31

Hold tightly to these truths. Never give up. The journey is hard, but it’s worth every effort. With God at the center, your marriage can flourish and your house can truly become a home.