For something so central to creation, the Bible rarely speaks directly about marriage. It records the first marriage in Genesis 2, sensuously describes the joys of marriage in the Song of Solomon, and occasionally references marriage in the epistles. But by and large, the topic of marriage is not a major theme in the Bible.

This doesn’t mean the Bible has little to say about marriage. Nearly every Biblical passage can be used to better understand how to love, honor, and be committed to one another.

Here are seven unexpected passages of Scripture which could greatly enhance your marriage:

1.  “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5.3)

A healthy marriage starts with humility. As long as two people understand they do not know everything, they can learn anything. However, when pride enters the marriage relationship, it begins to divide the couple. By recognizing our inability, we are far more likely to create a climate for love to grow. (See: The Most Important Marriage Advice I Could Ever Give)

2. “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” (Philippians 2.3)

This is the passage I most often use during wedding ceremonies. When a couple disagrees, the great danger is that their communication will devolve because of rivalry or conceit. If a couple can refuse to turn a disagreement into an argument to be won and will instead view it as a discussion to be had, communication will be much more effective. When a couple can’t disagree in a healthy way, it is likely because of rivalry. (See: The Warning Sign of a Bad Marriage You Might Miss)

3. “Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.” (1 John 3.18)

Talk is important in a relationship. Men especially could do a better job of communicating their emotions and feelings. However, love must be far more than talk. We must demonstrate our love for one another in very concrete ways.

4. “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Jeremiah 6.16)

In a world fascinated by the newest item, success in marriage is often found by looking for the ancient path. The good thing isn’t always obvious to us, but with a little patience and study, we can often find the right road. Our greatest temptation is to rush down the wrong path without much thinking. Instead, we should slow down, contemplate, and walk in a way that is right.

5. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1.9)

A healthy marriage requires courage. Left to my own devices, marriage will be too challenging for me. It is frightening to reveal your true self, confront your real issues, and let your partner see your weaknesses. Yet a good marriage demands these things. Strength and courage will allow us to face the difficult moments. (See: Jesus, Leadership, and the Courage to Serve)

6. “So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90.12)

This is my favorite verse in the Pslams and it is a great reminder for marriage. Life has different seasons. The challenge is to recognize the season we are in, appreciate it, and be able to transfer to the next season when it is time. Many couples get stuck and are unable to transition to the next period of life. It takes great wisdom to continually grow as life changes.

7. “If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.” (Proverbs 24.10)

Marriages fail every day. Without judging any marriage that dissolves, I want a different outcome. I want Jenny and I to build our relationship in such a way that no outside force can negatively influence it. While every day matters, there are some days more meaningful than others. When the times are tough, I want us to lean on one another and prove our love to be true. (See: The Most Overlooked Characteristic of Who You Want to Marry)

In nearly every sermon I preach, I make an application of the Biblical text to marriage. While the Bible does not directly speak to marriage very often, every passage can be used to strengthen a relationship. These are seven passages which speak to me.

What is your favorite unexpected scripture which could improve marriage?