Practical Life Alignment

Premarital Class – Lesson 2

Introduction

One of the most common mistakes couples make is spending months planning a wedding but giving very little thought to life after the wedding. A wedding is a celebration — but marriage is where real life happens. From finances to family planning, unresolved practical issues often become sources of tension if not addressed early.

The Bible encourages wisdom and preparation: “For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost?” (Luke 14:28). Marriage requires planning, responsibility, and unity in how we manage everyday life.

This session is about asking: Are we planning for our marriage, not just our wedding?

Theme:

Have you planned for your marriage, not just your wedding?

Main Scriptures:

• Luke 14:28 – “Count the cost…”

• Proverbs 24:3–4 – “By wisdom a house is built…”

Key Topics

Finances

• Are we in debt?

• Do we tithe regularly as individuals and will we continue as a couple?

• What are our budgeting, saving, and giving habits?

• Who will handle managing the household finances?

Career & Calling

• Are our career paths and lifestyles compatible?

• Are we aligned in work-life balance expectations?

• How do we support each other’s calling and career growth?

Housing & Living Plans

• Where will we live after marriage?

• Renting, buying, or living with family temporarily?

• Have we discussed the practicalities (costs, contracts, moving plans)?

Family Planning

• Do we want children?

• How many children do we both desire?

• What are our views on contraception, family timing, and raising children?

Roles & Responsibilities

• Who will handle different household duties?

• Do we agree on shared responsibilities like cleaning, cooking, and home care?

• How do we see leadership and submission in practical daily life?

Conflict Resolution Styles

• How do we each handle disagreements or stress?

• Have we identified how we’ve resolved conflict in the past?

• Do we have a plan for handling conflict moving forward?

Key Conversations to Have Together

• Who will manage our money, and what are our financial goals?

• How will we handle conflict — what rules or approaches will we agree on?

• What are our expectations about intimacy, privacy, family visits, and traditions?

• How will we care for aging parents or support extended family?

• What boundaries do we need around friendships, social media, and outside relationships?

Red Flags to Watch For

• Poor financial stewardship or hidden debt

• Avoiding accountability or responsibility in key areas

• Unrealistic lifestyle expectations or entitlement

• Unresolved past conflicts or bad communication patterns

• Refusing to plan for or discuss important topics like children or roles