EPISODE 0242 | Strong Marriage Part 1: I Do, I Did, Now What?
THESE NOTES ACCOMPANY EPISODE 0242
Saying “I do” is just the beginning. In this powerful and humorous message from Pastors Lee and Tanya Wilson, couples are challenged to revisit what their marriage is truly built on. Through personal stories, biblical truth, and practical wisdom, this session explores how to move beyond unrealistic expectations and into a lasting, God-centered covenant. Whether you’ve been married for thirty days or thirty years, this message will equip you to build your relationship with wisdom, humility, and the presence of God at the center.
Key Topics Covered
Marriage Expectations vs. Reality
Why so many marriages struggle under the weight of unrealistic, unspoken, and unhealthy expectations—and how to replace them with truth and grace.God’s Design for Marriage
Marriage isn’t a contract or a competition. It’s a covenant—founded on sacrificial love, mutual submission, and commitment for life.Cultural Myths About Marriage
From “happily ever after” to “they should just know what I need,” this session confronts the lies culture tells us about marriage.The Power of Words and Boundaries
What you say (and don’t say) matters. Learn the non-negotiables that can keep your marriage safe and holy.The Puzzle Analogy
Every marriage is a puzzle—and God holds the missing pieces. When we flip over every piece, build with patience, and ask for help, things come together.
Scripture References
Ephesians 5:21–33
1 Corinthians 13:4–7
Proverbs 24:3
Isaiah 55:8–9
2 Peter 1:2–8
Deuteronomy 23:21
Jeremiah 17:5
Memorable Quotes
“Marriage is not a competition. It’s a covenant.”
“You can win the argument and lose the marriage.”
“We’re not just marrying a person—we’re marrying a puzzle. And God is the missing piece.”
“When you said ‘I do,’ you said ‘I do’ to change, conversation, compromise, and contentment.”
“The ring isn’t the marriage—it’s a reminder of the covenant.”
Practical Takeaways
Define your marriage biblically. It’s holy, powerful, and ordained by God—not a cultural convenience.
Clarify your expectations. Don’t assume your spouse knows—communicate, compromise, and let go of the unrealistic.
Cut the ties. Anything that threatens the unity of your marriage—even good things—must be surrendered.
Practice the presence of God. God’s presence isn’t just for your wedding day—it’s the foundation your marriage needs every day.
Stay in the covenant. Marriage isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence, patience, and the power of grace.
Resources
The Better Planner™ is a personal planner designed by Pastor Stephen to help you map out all the different aspects of success and personal growth on your way to better.
The foundation of the Better Planner™ is the practice of defining and reaching your personal vision. The other principles for growth all integrate with and flow out of this essential step. As you develop and record the insights you receive from God and His design for your life, the Better Planner™ will lead you through a step-by-step process to become better.
MERCH
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