Memory Verse
"Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain." Psalm 127:1.
BIBLE PASSAGE: Romans 8:14

INTRODUCTION
Marriage is not for the unprepared. Proper preparation precedes the marital union. Many people prepare for the wedding ceremony more than the marriage itself. Preparation for marriage is a process one must undertake in order to have a successful marital future. May the Holy Spirit teach us as we study this topic in Jesus' name. Amen.

OUTLINES
1. HOW PREPARED ARE YOU?
2. WHAT DO I HAVE TO OFFER THIS MARRIAGE?

HOW PREPARED ARE YOU?
Spiritual maturity has nothing to do with how long one has been born again but the ability to be able to discern the voice of God. It is also knowing the will of God and doing it. Spiritual maturity means to be led by the Spirit of God - Romans 8:14 and living a life of holiness and purity - Hebrews 12:14. When one is spiritually matured, the ability to receive instruction for one's marriage becomes easy Gen. 24:33-53. You have to be mentally prepared to get married otherwise the marriage will suffer. The Bible did not specify the age that one must marry but it is important for us to note that marriage is not for boys and girls. Marriage is for the physically matured - Ecclesiastes 3: 1.

The one who is prepared for marriage must be emotionally healthy and independent. Your marriage will be a happy one if you bring your happiness and peace into it. Though the man is the primary provider in a marriage· 1Tim. 5:8, the woman also has financial responsibilities which she must meet if a good marriage is desired.

WHAT DO HAVE TO OFFER THIS MARRIAGE?
We look for people who bring balance into our lives, that is, people who compensate for our weaknesses and shortcomings. The truth is that, as the woman is looking for the right man to fix her life,so also the man is looking for "Miss Right" to fix his life. Every single preparing for marriage should stop thinking of what he or she will get out of the marital relationship but rather what to offer it. What are the treasures I am bringing in? Will my partner be ready to do almost anything to get married to me because of what I have to offer? Will my partner find it very difficult to replace me? Am I the very best I can be? - Proverbs 31:10-31.

CONCLUSION
You will have an exciting marital future if you are emotionally, mentally, spiritually and financially prepared for marriage.

QUESTIONS
1. Mention ten ways by which a lady can add value to her marital relationship.
2. Is it good for a couple to have a common purse?
3. If one of the parties is not physically fit due to illness, would you advise them to go ahead with the marriage preparation?

BLESSED WEEK WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT
MONDAY: Philippians 4:8 - Let our thoughts be pure.
TUESDAY: Ephesians 4:26 - Be angry at sin.
WEDNESDAY: Matthew 26:41 - Watch and Pray.
THURSDAY: 1 Samuel 3:9 God still speaks to those who take time to listen.
FRIDAY: Proverbs 15:18 - Anger is only one letter short of danger.
SATURDAY: Psalm 100:4 - When there is a delay in the answering of your prayer, try praising God.
SUNDAY: Leviticus 20:10 - The sin of adultery is not ordinary as far as God is concerned.