“If the Lord delights in the way of the man, he makes his steps firm. Though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand.” Psalm 37:23-24

When and where were already established. The what, how and who remained the only questions. Katie and I had the honor of meeting with an engaged couple seeking to be married. Just visiting here, they had a marriage license in hand AND a plan to have their ceremony on the beach this Saturday. They wanted to know if I would marry them. Our meeting would determine my answer.

As a pastor, I have had to politely refuse to marry ‘love birds’ several times over the years, a position that is uncomfortable, but very necessary. When a couple asks a Pastor to officiate, they are really asking God to be there. If someone dislikes baseball, it would be a shock to see them schedule their wedding at Yankee Stadium! We had to determine what KIND of marriage they wanted to have.

First things being first, I asked them about their relationship with Jesus Christ. Already knowing the key words I needed to hear in order to say yes, we were delighted and honored when we heard them. The conversation revealed that each knew Jesus Christ as their Savior AND that they wanted HIM at the center of their marriage. A good start! Next comes the follow through… at the beach!

Jesus tells the story of 2 different men who built houses. One on rock and 1 on sand. We know the conclusion when the storm hits. As long as no storms come, the beach is a BEAUTIFUL place to be. But in a storm, there is no place worse. I know of no place more filled with storms than in a marriage! In order for marriage to work, principles and intentions must be ROCK solid on Jesus!

Whether an individual, couple or group, the basis of, and the reason for any successful relationship, must be built upon the same ground. Today’s verse applies to EVERY individual, couple or group who has made Jesus Christ their choice of what, when, where, how and why. It is a promise He has NEVER failed to deliver. The question is… ‘Does The Lord delight in you and yours?’