By Dr Deborah Skomba

You’re praying. You’re planning. You’re wondering if this relationship—this love—is ready for the next step. But somewhere deep down, you’re asking: Do we really have what it takes to make a marriage last?

That question is wise. It’s humble. It shows that your heart is in the right place. But before you start worrying about what might go wrong, let’s pause and ask a better question:

What if you’re stronger than you think?

The World Focuses on Flaws—But God Reveals Strength

We live in a culture obsessed with red flags. And yes, we should be alert to unhealthy patterns. But that can’t be the only lens we use when looking at our relationships. Because the truth is, God doesn’t just expose weaknesses—He reveals strengths.

Many couples already have the ingredients for a strong, Christ-centered marriage. They just haven’t named them. They haven’t built on them. They’re so focused on what could go wrong that they forget to see what’s already going right.

Let me tell you what I see in so many couples I coach:

  • They pray together, even if imperfectly
  • They’re committed to personal growth
  • They respect each other’s boundaries
  • They laugh, dream, and love deeply
  • They want to honor God in how they move forward

These aren’t just hopeful signs—they’re the foundation of something sacred.

Strength Is Not the Absence of Struggle

Being strong doesn’t mean you’ve avoided hardship. It means you’ve come through it. It means you’re willing to grow, to listen, to surrender areas of pride and let God lead.

A couple who’s honest about their weaknesses and still chooses humility, prayer, and perseverance—that’s strength. And it’s exactly what builds lasting love.

“Let the weak say, ‘I am strong.’” – Joel 3:10

Your strength doesn’t come from your perfection—it comes from the presence of God in your relationship.

Before the Ring Is the Best Time to See It

This season—before the vows—is a sacred space. It’s a time to pause and reflect. Not with fear, but with faith.

  • What are we doing well?
  • How do we handle conflict and forgiveness?
  • What are our shared values and spiritual direction?
  • What has God already taught us—and what is He still showing us?

These are not tests to pass or fail. They are invitations to grow, to build, and to prepare.

That’s why I created the free guide: 10 Questions Every Couple Should Ask Before the Ring. It’s not a checklist—it’s a tool for clarity, communication, and confirmation. It helps couples slow down and see not just the red flags—but the real, God-given strengths they already carry.

Download the free guide here.
Schedule a 20-minute Discovery Call with me.Let’s talk about what’s working—and build from there.

You Don’t Have to Be Perfect. You Just Have to Be Willing.

If you’re wondering whether you’re ready—don’t let that question paralyze you. Let it push you closer to Jesus. Let it open the door to honest conversation. And let it remind you that your strength isn’t based on your feelings—it’s based on your foundation.

Marriage is a big step. But if you’re seeking God, honoring truth, and willing to grow—you’re already stronger than you think.

Know a Couple Who Needs Clarity Before the Ring?

If you know someone who’s seriously dating or newly engaged, I’d be honored if you referred them to Before the Ring. When they complete the program, I’ll send you a $25 Amazon Gift Card as a thank-you—just have them mention your name when they sign up.

Because your story deserves more than a ring; it deserves a foundation that lasts.

With faith, love, and peace,
Dr. Deborah