Solomon unwisely married women who worshipped false gods (1Ki 11:1, 2; w18.07 18 ¶7)

Solomon’s wives gradually inclined his heart away from Jehovah (1Ki 11:3-6; w19.01 15 ¶6)

Jehovah became furious at Solomon (1Ki 11:9, 10; w18.07 19 ¶9)

God’s Word counsels single Christians to marry “only in the Lord.” (1Co 7:39) Yet, baptism itself does not qualify someone as a suitable mate. Will the person help you to keep serving Jehovah whole-souled? Has the person shown a deep love for Jehovah over time? Before agreeing to marry, take time to get to know your prospective mate well.

Successful Christian marriages honor Jehovah and bring joy to a husband and wife. (Mr 10:9) To have an enduring, happy marriage, Christians must stick closely to Bible principles when choosing a mate.

Pursue a courtship only after you are “past the bloom of youth,” a time when strong sexual feelings can distort your judgment. (1Co 7:36) Make wise use of your years of singleness to strengthen your relationship with God and to develop Christian qualities. Then, you will be in a far better position to contribute to a successful marriage.

Before agreeing to marry someone, take the necessary time to get to know “the secret person of the heart.” (1Pe 3:4) If serious doubts arise, discuss them with your potential mate. As with other human relationships, marriage should be more about what you give than what you get. (Php 2:3, 4) If you apply Bible principles before marriage, you will be laying a fine foundation for a happy married life.

WATCH THE VIDEO PREPARING FOR MARRIAGE​—PART 3: “CALCULATE THE EXPENSE,” AND THEN ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:

• How did the sister’s relationship with Shane progress?

• What did she notice as the relationship continued?

• How did her parents help her, and what wise decision did she make?