A young couple walked into a man of God’s office for counselling. They’d been married less than two years. Before he could say a word, the wife burst out: “Sir, I don’t even know what’s wrong. My husband is fine, but I’m just bored.” By God’s wisdom, the man of God looked at them and said one thing they wouldn’t forget: “Marriage is a covenant and not a contract.”
Friend, marriage is a covenant and not a contract (Malachi 2:16). But the real question is: Are you training for the long haul? When I see how some people enter marriage — the mindset, the preparation, the expectations — I wonder if they are only planning for a short season (Matthew 25:1-9).
Let’s be clear: The world runs contractual marriages. “If it doesn’t work, we exit.” But God designed marriage as a covenant. It’s meant to carry you for life (Malachi 2:14). It’s not a trial phase you leave when you are tired. So don’t enter it carelessly. Weigh it. Pray over it. Think it through (Proverbs 18:22).
Don’t let pressure rush you to the altar (Romans 8:14). The people pressuring you to “settle down” won’t be in your living room when real life hits. They will clap from the sidelines. You will be the one facing it daily. That’s why you must choose prayerfully and thoughtfully (Amos 3:3).
Don’t choose someone who excites you for a season but bores you for a lifetime (Proverbs 5:18). Marry someone you can do life with — morning to night, year after year — and still be glad they are there. Use courtship to build godly companionship, not just chemistry (Genesis 2:18, Malachi 2:14).
Marriage is not meant to be endured like a burden. It’s meant to be enjoyed (Psalm 128:1-6). Purpose kills boredom in marriage and in life (Genesis 2:15, Acts 26:19, 22). Before you find a partner, find a purpose. And when you are married, don’t trade purpose for pleasure. Marriage is a covenant, not a contract.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria