What if one of the best things we can do for the future of marriage is simply build marriages worth wanting? This Thanksgiving, we're taking a break from what's wrong with marriage to celebrate what's good about it—and why gratitude may be one of the simplest ways to strengthen the marriage you already have.

Read the full blog and discover why a grateful marriage may be one of the greatest gifts we give the next generation.

Keywords:

marriage gratitude, thankful for marriage, Thanksgiving marriage blog, healthy marriage, Christian marriage, biblical marriage, strong marriage, happy marriage, marriage encouragement, marriage relationship, building a strong marriage, improving your marriage, gratitude in marriage, appreciation in marriage, marriage and family, modeling marriage, marriage for the next generation, lifelong marriage, faithful marriage, Christian couples, marriage communication, marriage commitment, marriage ministry, Legacy Family Ministries, Together Building a Godly Marriage, marriage workbook

[4 min. read]

Going home for Christmas when you're single can sometimes feel like walking into an interview about your relationship status. But valuing marriage doesn't mean pressuring people to get married. As we finish our series on the future of marriage, we're looking at some surprisingly hopeful news—and how we can encourage the next generation toward healthy relationships without making marriage a deadline.

Read the full blog and discover why we have more reason for hope about the future of marriage than you might think.

Keywords

future of marriage, marriage trends, marriage decline, young adults and marriage, single adults and marriage, Christian singles, Christian dating, healthy dating, dating relationships, preparing for marriage, marriage preparation, healthy marriage, strong marriage, stable marriages, Christian marriage, biblical marriage, marriage encouragement, dating advice, relationship skills, marriage and Christmas, singles at Christmas, holiday pressure to marry, marriage statistics, Institute for Family Studies, State of Our Unions 2026, Legacy Family Ministries, Before Forever, marriage resources

[4 min. read]

Marriage rates are declining—but does that mean young adults have given up on marriage? The research tells a more hopeful story. Discover what’s changing, what’s getting in the way, and how we can help the next generation build healthy relationships that lead to strong marriages. 

Read the full blog and discover how we can help make the road to marriage a little less bumpy.

Keywords:

engagement, marriage, marriage decline, future of marriage, marriage trends, young adults and marriage, dating and marriage, dating recession, healthy relationships, healthy marriage, marriage preparation, premarital counseling, engaged couples, Christian marriage, biblical marriage, Christian dating, dating relationships, relationship skills, marriage education, preparing for marriage, premarital education, communication in marriage, conflict resolution in marriage, Institute for Family Studies, State of Our Unions, Before Forever, To Have and To Hold, marriage preparation workbook

[4 min read]

When was the last time you gave your marriage a checkup?

We regularly evaluate our health, finances, and careers—but often neglect the most important relationship in our lives. In our newest blog, discover five simple questions that can help you strengthen communication, deepen friendship, and move your marriage forward with purpose.

Read more and schedule your marriage checkup today.

Keywords:

marriage checkup, marriage evaluation, healthy marriage habits, Christian marriage growth, marriage communication, marriage friendship, intentional marriage, marriage assessment, strengthen your marriage, marriage conversations, marriage enrichment, Christ-centered marriage

[3 min. read]

Most wedding checklists cover the big stuff—but there are a few important steps couples often forget. Two big things your wedding checklist probably didn’t include:

• Book marriage prep at the same time you book the venue.
• Budget for an honorarium to thank your officiant for the time, preparation, and heart they put into the ceremony.

These simple steps can make your day smoother and your marriage stronger.

Click here to read this blog and see what else might be missing from your wedding planning checklist!

KEYWORDS:

wedding checklist, wedding planning tips, wedding officiant, wedding officiant cost, honorarium for wedding officiant, paying wedding officiant, marriage preparation, premarital counseling, wedding budget tips, wedding ceremony planning, wedding planning advice, Christian wedding officiant, engaged couple advice, wedding planning guide

[3 min read]

Is your calendar helping your marriage—or hurting it?

As summer gives way to the busy pace of fall, many couples find themselves managing schedules instead of nurturing their relationship. In our newest Marriage Monday blog, discover why healthy marriages don't thrive because life becomes less busy—they thrive because couples learn to protect what matters most.

Read more and learn how to stay connected during life's busiest seasons.

Keywords
busy marriage, marriage priorities, Christian marriage habits, healthy marriage rhythms, marriage communication, protecting your marriage, intentional marriage, marriage connection, Christian marriage encouragement, work life marriage balance, marriage growth

[3 min. read]

Your marriage is shaping more than your present—it’s shaping your legacy. In this blog, discover how shared purpose strengthens your relationship and creates a generational impact. Learn how purposeful marriages influence children, families, and future generations through faith, intentionality, and everyday choices.

Read more and explore how our Countdown Online marriage prep course helps couples build a Christ-centered foundation from the start.

Keywords
marriage legacy, purpose-driven marriage, Christian family impact, generational influence, Christ-centered marriage, Christian marriage preparation, marriage foundation faith, Legacy Family Ministries, Countdown Online marriage prep, spiritual legacy, engagement, proposal timing, Christian dating advice, marriage expectations, Christian marriage evaluation, engaged couples preparation, online marriage prep, Christian newlywed guidance

[3 min read]

Engaged or recently married? Our newest blog explores the crucial difference between the marriage you expect and the marriage you’re actually building. Learn how to identify assumptions, uncover blind spots, and form a strong, Christ-centered foundation—before unhealthy patterns ever take root.

Read this blog to discover how our Summer Weekender and Online Marriage Prep Class can help you start marriage with clarity and confidence.

Keywords:

engagement, proposal timing, Christian dating advice, marriage expectations, Christian marriage evaluation, engaged couples preparation, newlywed marriage help, Christian premarital counseling, marriage prep course, Summer Weekender Waco, online marriage prep, build strong marriage, Christian newlywed guidance

[4 min read]

/dating

It’s the most common—and confusing—piece of dating advice out there: “Oh, you’ll just know.”

Really?

This blog explores the complexity behind the common advice of "just knowing" when it comes to marriage. It highlights the importance of discernment, the role of questions, and the need for growth in relationships rather than relying solely on attraction or intuition.

Want more? Read our book Before Forever: How do you know that you know

KEYWORDS: Attraction, Compatibility, Infatuation, Marriage, Wisdom, Discernment, List, Relationship, Intuition, Growth, Questions, Decision, Trust, Values, Clarity

This blog challenges the idea of "just knowing" when it comes to marriage, sharing a personal story about the importance of time, reflection, and trusting God’s guidance. True certainty comes not from impulsive feelings but from growth, prayer, and shared values in a relationship.

Trying to determine if he/she is the right one? Read our book Before Forever: How do you know that you know

Keywords:

Marriage, Dating, Engagement, Relationships, Wisdom, Discernment, Faith, Love, Commitment, Trust, Emotion, Guidance, Prayer, Attraction, Character

[2 min. read]

As years pass, the initial spark in a marriage can fade, leading couples to experience moments of silence and routine. To cultivate a lasting bond, it’s crucial to nurture the relationship through small daily gestures, shared laughter, and mutual prayer. Intentionality in marriage can transform a relationship into a deep, meaningful connection. Read this blog.

Sex in marriage is God’s design—meant to be passionate, fulfilling, and free from shame. Yet, many couples struggle with unhealthy expectations and cultural distortions. This blog offers Christian relationship advice on emotional and spiritual intimacy, practical tips for a healthy sex life, and insights from Legacy Countdown Online to help couples build a strong, faith-based marriage. Whether you’re engaged or married, discover how to embrace intimacy God’s way.

You can also watch session from our previous Legacy Marriage Conference -- Sex Talks. Check it out.

Keywords: Christian, marriage, sex, intimacy, God, relationship, advice, counseling, premarital, spiritual, emotional, faith-based, couple, love, connection, God’s design for sex, sex in marriage, Christian relationship advice, premarital counseling, online marriage prep, Legacy Countdown Online, emotional intimacy, marriage license, sex

[2 min. read]

Managing money as an engaged couple is essential for a strong marriage and lasting financial peace. This blog explores practical budgeting tips, smart planning, and Christian principles to help couples avoid debt and build a solid financial foundation. Start your journey together with wisdom, stewardship, and confidence!

Keywords:

Marriage, money, financial, peace, budgeting, engaged, couples, Christian, planning, debt

[3 min. read]

The jokes are rampant. The pressure causes misperception.

What is crazy…

         The average age to marry in America is 28 for men and 26.5 for women.

Studies have proven that marital satisfaction increases and the divorce rate decreases when husband and wife...   

[3 min. read]

When was the last time you gave your marriage a checkup?

We regularly evaluate our health, finances, and careers—but often neglect the most important relationship in our lives. In our newest blog, discover five simple questions that can help you strengthen communication, deepen friendship, and move your marriage forward with purpose.

Read more and schedule your marriage checkup today.

Keywords

marriage checkup, marriage evaluation, healthy marriage habits, Christian marriage growth, marriage communication, marriage friendship, intentional marriage, marriage assessment, strengthen your marriage, marriage conversations, marriage enrichment, Christ-centered marriage

[3 min. read]

Discover the sobering truth behind the rising costs of weddings in the United States today. With expenses averaging between $33,000 to $35,000, modern couples face daunting financial pressures as they plan their dream day. From extravagant venues to personalized details driven by social media influence, the wedding industry demands a substantial investment. 

However, Legacy Countdown offers more than just preparation for the big day. Rooted in Christian principles, our marriage preparation program equips couples with essential tools—like communication, conflict resolution, financial planning, emotional intimacy, and a foundation in Christ—to build a resilient and fulfilling partnership that lasts beyond the ceremony. 

Prepare wisely with Legacy Countdown and embark on a journey of commitment and growth in marriage.

Keywords: cost of weddings, wedding expenses, wedding planning, marriage preparation, wedding budget, wedding trends, social media influence

[3 min read]

This blog post discusses how to discern if someone is “the one” for marriage, emphasizing the importance of trusting God’s guidance over fleeting emotions in dating. It encourages readers to take time, seek spiritual direction, and embrace uncertainty in their relationship journey. By focusing on faith and patience, individuals can navigate love with greater clarity and purpose in finding a Christian spouse.

Keywords:  relationships, discernment, faith, guidance, marriage, love, mate selection, engagement, spirtituality, connection, faith-based relationship tips

[2 min read]

When considering a marriage partner, it's essential to look beyond superficial qualities and focus on deeper attributes like character, values, and shared goals. While it's natural to have a list of desired traits, be open to God's guidance, as His plans might differ from ours but ultimately lead to a more fulfilling relationship.

Prioritize qualities that foster a strong, lasting bond, and trust that seeking wisdom through prayer will help you find the right match. Embrace the journey with faith and an open heart for a truly meaningful partnership.

Keywords: mate selection, finding the one, choosing a partner, marriage qualities, getting married, engagement, proposal    

[2 min. read]

Getting married? Have you thought about pre-marital counseling? Here are 4 tips to help you maximize your pre-marital experience from the couple who helped prepare Chip and Joanna Gaines for marriage.

As the wedding countdown begins for you, we hope marriage will be as rewarding and fulfilling for you as it has been for us.

Before we dive in, we would want you to consider using a term the church has used for centuries – marriage preparation – instead of pre-marital counseling.

Think of marriage prep more as educational not mental health/wellness. Additional individual or couple counseling may be needed to deal with past hurts or issues like anxiety, sexual abuse, depression or father wounds, but this requires a trained licensed professional.

[2 min. read]

Empty nest.

For us this may have been a bigger change than when we welcomed our first baby home. Oh, we longed for a quiet house and an evening of adult conversation – just the two of us.

Yet, we have learned to invest into the next generation through wisdom, meaningful stories, and biblical teaching.

Discover practical insights on how to live life to the fullest by sharing your experiences, offering guidance, and leaving a lasting legacy of faith. Join us in turning the empty nest into a season of purposeful mentorship and impactful Kingdom work.

Keywords: empty nest, mentoring, biblical principles, wisdom, legacy, faith, younger generation, Kingdom work.

[4 min read]

3 THINGS LEARNED FROM THE LONGEST AND HARDEST WALK EVER TAKEN

Two of my children were married within six weeks. My youngest daughter’s wedding was first.

Now more than ever, I believe one of the most overlooked segments of a wedding is the transfer of the bride from father to new husband.

[4 min. read]

5 Things I Know About Being the Father of the Groom

[4 min. read]