When it comes to the concept of marriage and how to make them great, opinions run aplenty among both married and unmarried folks. In fact, many people have no idea how to make a marriage great or, if they know, are unwilling to put in the work it takes to do so. Women often seek advice from their girlfriends. Men usually run to their boys. But there are so many lessons the Bible teaches us about marriage, it’s the one resource that most often gets neglected.

Below, I’ve outlined some scriptures that give amazing direction for your relationship with your spouse. They’re only useful if you use them. Some are specific to husbands and others to wives but feel free to learn from each other. Whether your marriage is soaring high or in the valley low, I suggest you give them a try.

Marriage Lesson #1 – Character counts a lot, so keep yours noble.

Proverbs 31:1 A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.

If you’re a Christian wife, you’ve most likely read this passage. If you’re not, but you’re interested in the importance of character in your marriage, this scripture gives great insight. Conducting yourself with nobility is worth more than rubies. Work on this trait and earn your husband’s confidence.

Marriage Lesson #2 – It’s important to build your own family.

Genesis 2:24 That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.

It can be difficult to leave your extended family out of your relationship with your spouse, especially if you have always been close. But you and your spouse have begun your own family. You will create your own traditions. You will implement your own ideas. Remember, in your marriage, you and your spouse are designed to be as one. Don’t let anything – or anyone – get in the way of that.

Marriage Lesson #3 – Help your spouse do the right thing no matter how difficult it might be.

Acts 5:2 With his wife’s full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles’ feet.

It takes courage to call your spouse out on something that you both know is wrong. When you see them taking a path that will damage their spirit and lower your esteem of them, pray and speak up. In fact, keep praying and keep speaking until they are moved to do the right thing.

Marriage Lesson #4 – Sex with your spouse is a must. Have lots of it.

1Corinthians 7:3 The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband.

Sexless marriages are not a myth. They actually exist. If you approach this part of your marriage with the mindset that God intends, yours doesn’t have to be one of them. It’s important to keep in mind that implementing some of the other lessons found in this article will most likely keep bedroom activities poppin’ off on the regular.

Marriage Lesson #5 – God gives the directions but someone needs to steer the ship.

Ephesians 5:23 For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior.

I know that not everyone subscribes to this way of thinking. But if you want your marriage to encounter smooth sailing, I recommend you not only “subscribe” but “like” and “follow” it as well.

Marriage Lesson #6 – Love the Respect the Love.

Ephesians 5:33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

When it comes to love and respect, one often begins where the other one ends…just like the sentence above. Nurture both in your marriage.

Marriage Lesson #7 – Get out of your own head.

Philippians 2:5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.

Perhaps the most difficult challenge couples face when it comes to their relationship is learning how to get out of their heads and adopt the mind of Christ. You enter a marriage as an individual, with history. Sometimes, that history has unbelievable scars. Whether you intend to or not, you probably view your spouse through a scarred lens.  This scripture advises you to get out of your head and into the mind of Christ. Once you see your spouse the way Christ does, marriage miracles start to happen.

There are a million other lessons on marriage in the Bible. I’m sure we’ll add more to the list. But start with these. Your friends and trusted loved ones will still have things to say when it comes to your relationship with your spouse. It’s up to you to decide whose advice you’re going to take.

BMWK, will you put these lessons into practice?