Matrimony is a holy sacrament that binds a man and a woman. It is a sacred pledge that two people make to become one.

In Genesis 2:18, "The Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.'" God designed marriage to address the longing for companionship and to create an illustration of the relationship of people with Him. Despite the sanctity of marriage, Center for Disease Control and Prevention statistics shows that there are 3.2 divorce rates per 1,000 population. In fact, the United States is ranked 12^th among countries around the world with highest divorce rates per capita.

With this alarming rate, it is important to remember that God is the center of a marriage. Strengthen your unity with the following powerful Bible verses.

1. "He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord (Proverbs 18:22)."

This is a confirmation from God Himself that He created women for men. Thus, it is your duty as a husband/wife to seek God's deliverance through your partner, and secure love for your spouse to experience and spread the word of God.

2. "If a man has recently married, he must not be sent to war or have any other duty laid on him. For one year he is to be free to stay at home and bring happiness to the wife he has married (Deuteronomy 24:5)."

This is a reminder from God Himself that a man's first duty is to his wife and children. It is your responsibility to protect your partner and ensure her happiness. Stay faithful and truthful.

3. "'Haven't you read,' he replied, 'that at the beginning the Creator made them male and female,' and said, 'For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.' So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate (Matthew 19:4–6)."

Do not let issues rest with the nightfall. Keep in mind that ignoring issues is the dawn of misunderstandings. Keep an open mind and an understanding heart, and talk about your problems — even if it is the smallest matters such as your partner's irritating habits. Openness in a relationship anchors patience and everlasting love.

4. "Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them (Colossians 3:18–19)."

As husband and wife, remain faithful to each other. Devote your time and love to one another. Understand each other's faults, and let one's weakness compliment the strength of the other. Be each other's refuge and let God be the center of your union.

5. "Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous (Hebrews 13:4)."

Joining two people together is a symbol that you shall not let anything or anyone go in between your relationship. Husbands, set your eyes only to your wives. Women, allow no one else to see your sacredness but your companions.

A vow made in the name of God is a sacred pledge that should be kept. Remember the first and greatest command of the Father, "Love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:39)." God calls His people to love one another, all the more that you should cherish your relationship and vow for everlasting love, support, and understanding for your spouse.