Engagement is a beautiful season of preparing for a lifelong journey with your partner. The Bible offers wisdom and guidance for this exciting time. Let’s explore some meaningful verses that inspire love, commitment, and faith as you and your fiancé take this significant step together.
Bible Verses About Engagement
Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.”
This verse highlights the significance of finding a life partner who is a source of goodness and divine favor. When my fiancé and I got engaged, we felt a profound sense of God’s blessing over our relationship.
The engagement period was a time of deep reflection and dedication towards building a future together. We often prayed for wisdom and guidance, and this verse reassured us that our union was a blessed journey supported by God’s grace.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”
Engagement is a stage where couples start to truly understand the dynamics of partnership. I remember when my fiancé and I stumbled through difficulties, our commitment to uplifting each other was crucial.
This Bible verse teaches the value of support and shared responsibility, emphasizing that togetherness yields greater strength and resilience. Our engagement period served as an important exercise in teamwork, preparing us for the challenges ahead.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
This passage stands out as the quintessence of what love should embody. During our engagement, my fiancé and I frequently revisited these characteristics as a guiding framework for our conduct towards each other.
Every situation, whether challenging or joyful, was an opportunity to exhibit patience, kindness, and humility. Living out these qualities helped nurture a deeper, more unconditional form of love that set a solid foundation for our marriage.
Proverbs 31:10
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.”
Engagement is not only a commitment to a future life partner but also a time for character assessment and preparation. Reflecting on this verse during our engagement encouraged us to strive for noble qualities in each other.
I recall using this as a benchmark to evaluate my own virtues and see their reflection in my fiancé. It was not about material wealth but about the richness of character and integrity that made our relationship profound and meaningful.
Song of Solomon 2:16
“My beloved is mine, and I am his; he browses among the lilies.”
During our engagement, this verse beautifully articulated the sense of belonging and mutual possession that characterized our relationship. There was a deep-seated satisfaction and joy in knowing we were choosing each other for a lifetime.
This phase was marked by tender moments and mutual devotion, a season of cherishing the unique bond we shared. It was a delightful reminder that love is both a gift and a commitment intertwining our lives in the sight of God.
Ephesians 5:25
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
This verse sets an incredibly high standard of sacrificial love that my fiancé and I aspired to embody during our engagement. Reflecting on Christ’s love for the church, we strived to prioritize selflessness and service in our relationship.
We actively sought ways to support, encourage, and uplift each other, realizing that such dedication not only honored one another but also honored God. This unwavering commitment laid a cornerstone for our enduring partnership.
1 John 4:18
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”
This verse was particularly comforting during our engagement, a time often rife with insecurities and uncertainties. We focused on nurturing a perfect love that reassured and drove out any fears or doubts.
Engagement allowed us to confront our personal anxieties and together build a fortress of trust and understanding. The absence of fear underscored the purity and strength of our love, which promised to see us through the vows we would soon take.
Colossians 3:14
“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
Throughout our engagement, we were constantly reminded that love is the glue that binds all virtues together in harmony. This verse was a cornerstone in our pre-marital counseling sessions.
We made deliberate efforts to let love guide our actions, decisions, and interactions, knowing that it would sustain the unity we cherished. It became the binding agent that held our relationship together as we navigated this significant phase of our lives.
1 Peter 4:8
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
Engagement is a period where imperfections and past mistakes come to light, testing the depth of one’s love. This verse was a beacon, encouraging us to love deeply despite any shortcomings. It taught us about grace and forgiveness. Our love became a sanctuary where flaws were embraced and amends were encouraged.
My fiancé and I learned the importance of compassion and understanding, recognizing that enduring love is about seeing past faults and appreciating the essence of each other. It was an essential step towards building a forgiving and loving marriage.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
As we navigated our engagement, trusting God became an indispensable part of our journey. Numerous decisions and uncertainties required a faith-driven approach. Leaning on God’s wisdom rather than our own understanding often brought about clarity and peace.
We submitted our relationship to God through prayer and felt a divine alignment guiding us. Trusting Him wholeheartedly assured us that He would lead us on the right path towards a blessed marriage.
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.'”
This creation principle emphasized the divine intention behind partnerships. During our engagement, acknowledging that our union was part of God’s design brought a deeper meaning to our relationship. It wasn’t just about companionship; it was about fulfilling a divine purpose together.
The idea of being suitable helpers for each other fostered mutual respect and a strong sense of mission. Recognizing our engagement as a step towards fulfilling God’s plan strengthened the spiritual bond we shared.
Raymond 5:6-7
“Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm, for love is strong as death, jealousy is fierce as the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire, the very flame of the Lord.”
This verse beautifully depicts the intensity and permanence of love. During our engagement, we took this to heart, pledging unwavering loyalty and dedication. Love became an unbreakable seal on our hearts, signifying eternal commitment.
The image of love as a flame of the Lord inspired us to keep our passion alive and sacred. It was an evocative reminder that true love endures all, driving our commitment to protect and nourish our relationship continually.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
This assurance from God provided immense hope and confidence during our engagement. As we planned our future, knowing that God had good plans for us was deeply reassuring. It was a powerful reminder that our journey was part of a greater plan orchestrated by God.
Trusting in His promises, we felt encouraged and optimistic about the life ahead, believing that our relationship would flourish under His guidance. This verse was a cornerstone for fortifying our hope and faith in God’s plan for our union.
Matthew 19:6
“So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
Our engagement was a sacred affirmation of our impending unity under God. Reflecting on this verse, we acknowledged the divine significance of our commitment to become one flesh. This understanding was a profound paradigm shift.
We matured in realizing that our bond was God-ordained, and no external force could separate it. The verse reinforced our dedication to preserving the sanctity of our relationship, knowing that our unity was blessed and protected by God Himself.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
Engagement requires heightened levels of communication and understanding. This verse served as a guiding principle for our interactions, teaching us the importance of listening and patience. We strived to be thoughtful and considerate in our conversations.
By being slow to speak and anger, we nurtured a healthier, more compassionate relationship. These principles helped us address conflicts constructively, ensuring that our engagement was a time of learning and growing together in peace and harmony.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Anxiety is a common companion during engagement with myriad plans and decisions pending. This verse was our anchor, encouraging us to turn our anxieties into prayers. We found solace in presenting our requests to God and thanking Him in advance for His provisions.
The peace that followed was truly transcendent. It guarded our hearts and minds, allowing us to approach our union assuredly and calmly. Our reliance on God’s peace became our strength, leading us through this preparatory phase with grace and serenity.
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
Our engagement was a season of learning about mutual devotion and honor. This verse urged us to place our partner’s needs and well-being above our own. Such selflessness cultivated a deeper bond of respect and admiration.
By honoring each other, we built a foundation of high regard and value for one another, which would later define our marital relationship. This devotion inspired acts of love and kindness, creating an environment where our love continually thrived.
2 Corinthians 6:14
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
This verse emphasizes the importance of spiritual compatibility in a relationship. During our engagement, it was crucial for us to align our faith and values. We regularly engaged in Bible study and worship together, ensuring our spiritual journeys were intertwined.
Being equally yoked provided a harmonizing force, strengthening our relationship’s core. It was a conscious effort to foster spiritual unity, which became a vital aspect of our preparation for marriage.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
During our engagement, we prayed for the Holy Spirit to bear fruit in our relationship. Each characteristic listed in this verse became a goal for us to embody. Through love, joy, and peace, we created a harmonious foundation.
Practicing forbearance, kindness, and gentleness cultivated mutual respect and patience. Committing to goodness, faithfulness and self-control ensured integrity and resilience in our relationship. These virtues guided us in fostering a Christ-centered relationship that glorified God.
1 Corinthians 7:2
“But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband.”
This verse underscores the importance of sexual purity and commitment within the boundaries of marriage. Our engagement was a time of intentional boundary-setting, maintaining purity as a priority.
We fostered a relationship built on emotional, spiritual, and intellectual connection, anticipating the fullness of intimacy within the holy covenant of marriage. This approach honored both God and each other, solidifying our commitment to a righteous and pure union.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
Our engagement phase was greatly enriched by mutual encouragement and support. This verse encouraged us to build each other up, which strengthened our bond and prepared us for the challenges of married life.
We made it a point to uplift one another daily, celebrating victories and providing solace during setbacks. This practice fostered a positive and nurturing environment, which acted as the bedrock for our future together.
Romans 15:5-6
“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Engagement is an opportunity to develop unity and mutual respect. This verse encouraged us to adopt Christ-like attitudes, fostering harmony and glorifying God in our relationship. We sought endurance and encouragement from God, relying on His strength to maintain unity.
With one mind and voice, we aimed to reflect Christ’s love and harmony. This alignment in thought and purpose fortified our relationship, providing a template for our future marital life.
Hebrews 13:4
“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.”
Honoring marriage and maintaining purity was a priority during our engagement. This verse reinforced our commitment to approach marriage with reverence and integrity. We made conscious decisions to protect our purity and uphold the sanctity of our future marriage.
Our efforts were not just about avoiding temptation but about preparing a holy and respectful relationship that glorified God. This cultivated an environment where love and trust could thrive, laying a strong foundation for our married life.
Psalms 37:4
“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
Our engagement was a time of aligning our desires with God’s will. This verse encouraged us to delight in the Lord, trusting that He would fulfill our heart’s desires. We dedicated time to prayer and worship, seeking God’s guidance and blessings for our union.
Finding joy in our relationship with God became integral, and we noticed His hand in our journey, providing for us in ways we hadn’t imagined. This delight and trust in the Lord fortified our bond and led us closer to His divine plan for our lives together.
1 Timothy 4:12
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
This verse was particularly relevant to us as a young engaged couple. It was crucial to set an example through our conduct and interactions. Despite societal pressures, we focused on embodying speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity that honored God.
Our relationship wasn’t just about us but also a testimony to others. We committed to being role models, showing that true love and faithfulness could thrive even in youth, setting a godly example for those around us.
Titus 2:7
“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness.”
Our engagement was an opportunity to exhibit integrity and seriousness towards our future marriage. This verse guided us to display goodness and uprightness in our actions, setting a positive example for others.
We took our commitments seriously, ensuring our preparations for marriage were grounded in biblical principles. These efforts reflected a profound respect for the institution of marriage, preparing us to enter it with a foundation of goodness and righteousness.
Also Read: 30 Most Popular Bible Verses in Joshua
What Does the Bible Say About Engagement
When we explore what the Bible says about engagement, we find that the Scriptures place significant emphasis on the sanctity and intentions behind the act of becoming engaged. While the term “engagement” as we understand it today does not appear explicitly in the Bible, the principles surrounding betrothal, a similar concept, offer us valuable insights.
In biblical times, betrothal was a formal and legally binding agreement, much more serious than our modern conception of engagement. It marked the initial phase of the covenant bond of marriage. For example, in the story of Mary and Joseph, they were betrothed, which indicated a deep commitment and respect for the process leading to a lifelong union (Matthew 1:18-19). The seriousness with which betrothal was treated reflects how engagement should be approached—as a significant step that requires thoughtfulness and respect.
Engaged couples in biblical times were expected to honor each other and remain faithful, underscoring the importance of fidelity even before marriage. This commitment resonates with the values found in the Bible around relationship: loyalty, love, and faithfulness (Ephesians 5:22-33). These principles guide us in treating engagement not just as a preliminary step, but as an essential stage in establishing a foundation for a God-centered marriage.
Moreover, parental and communal involvement was often a part of the engagement process. This involvement signifies the importance of accountability and support from family and community in preparing for marriage. It reminds us that our relationships are not isolated but are meant to exist within the larger context of a supportive Christian community.
Additionally, we see in the Bible that engagement should be approached with a heart aligned to God’s purpose. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and not to rely solely on our understanding. This is particularly pertinent when making life-altering decisions, such as engagement, signifying that seeking God’s guidance and wisdom is crucial.
In conclusion, while the Bible may not provide a direct equivalent to modern engagement, it offers substantial principles through the concept of betrothal. These include commitment, fidelity, community involvement, and seeking divine guidance. As we contemplate the path to marriage, these biblical insights help us approach engagement with the respect and reverence it deserves, ensuring that it aligns with our faith and values.