Preparing someone for a biblical marriage is just like preparing someone for a life purpose.
There is one principle that governs all aspects of our lives as born-again believers: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37). This is not a command given in jest. It is a central part of our lives as believers. It is choosing to give our full attention to God and His Word so that our souls and our hearts are filled with things that please God.
The relationship we have with God through the Lord Jesus Christ is such that it puts all other relationships into perspective. The marriage relationship is based on the image of Christ and His church (Ephesians 5:22-23). Every aspect of our lives as believers is governed by our commitment to live according to the Lord’s instructions and commandments. Our obedience to God and His Word equips us to fulfill our God-given roles in our marriage and in this world. And the role of every born-again believer is to glorify God in everything (1 Corinthians 10:31).
To prepare oneself for marriage, to walk worthy of one’s calling in Jesus Christ, and to come into a close relationship with God through His Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17), focus on obedience in all things. There is no easy way to learn to practice obedience with God. It is a choice in which we choose daily to put aside worldly views in order to follow God. To walk worthy of Christ is to subject oneself to one way, one truth, and one life with humility on a day-by-day, moment-by-moment basis. This is the preparation that every believer must make for that great gift we call marriage.
A person who is spiritually mature and walking with God is more prepared for marriage than anyone else. Marriage demands dedication, passion, humility, love and respect. This quality is most evident in a person who has a close relationship with God. As you prepare yourself for marriage, focus on shaping God to shape you into the man and woman He wants you to be (Romans 12:1-2). If you submit yourself to Him, He will qualify you to be ready for marriage when that beautiful day comes.