When should one get married?

Biblical Foundation: God’s Design for Marriage

From the earliest chapters of Scripture, marriage emerges as a divine institution. In Genesis 2:24 we read, “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” This foundational verse shows that God established marriage as a lifelong covenant between a man and a woman. While different cultures throughout history have set various ages and customs for entering this covenant, the biblical principle remains: marriage is a holy union intended to reflect God’s good design and bring about companionship, mutual support, and, where applicable, the raising of children in faith.

Spiritual Maturity and Readiness

In determining when to marry, spiritual maturity is paramount. First Corinthians 7:9 addresses those struggling with controlled desires: “But if they cannot control themselves, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion.” This verse does not advocate rushing into marriage merely out of physical desire but highlights the importance of a proper channel for emotional and physical intimacy when both parties are prepared.

A major aspect of spiritual readiness is whether both individuals are in a relationship with God and growing in grace. Second Corinthians 6:14 warns believers not to be “unequally yoked,” emphasizing that unity in faith is essential for a healthy marital foundation. From a scriptural standpoint, one should consider marriage when both prospective spouses have a personal, maturing walk with God that will help sustain them through life’s trials.

Emotional and Personal Maturity

Beyond spirituality, practical readiness includes emotional resilience and maturity. Proverbs 24:27 teaches, “Complete your outdoor work and prepare your field; after that, you may build your house.” Although this verse primarily addresses preparation and diligence in work, the principle extends to personal readiness: one should pursue marriage after establishing a firm footing in personal responsibilities and emotional stability.

From a behavioral standpoint, marriage tests patience, forbearance, and sacrificial love. An individual prepared to marry will demonstrate selflessness, gentleness, and the ability to bear another’s burdens—attributes that flourish over time and are refined through purposeful efforts to grow in character (see Galatians 6:2).

Financial and Practical Preparations

Scripture includes many teachings on stewardship and diligence. Although the Bible does not impose a required financial threshold for marriage, it does commend wise planning. In Luke 14:28 Jesus says, “Which of you, wishing to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost to see if he has the resources to complete it?”

Similarly, archaeological and historical documents—such as ancient marriage contracts discovered in regions of the Near East—reveal how families in biblical times often had to ensure the preparedness of the home or gather a bride price before finalizing marriage. While today’s customs differ, the principle of counting the cost still applies: evaluating one’s ability to provide materially and manage responsibilities is part of discerning a suitable time for marriage.

Avoiding Immorality and Fostering Righteous Desires

The New Testament places significant emphasis on the sanctity of personal purity prior to and within marriage. First Thessalonians 4:3 says, “For it is God’s will that you should be holy: You must abstain from sexual immorality.” If prolonged dating or engagement leads to persistent temptations without meaningful progress toward a lifelong commitment, marriage may become a responsible choice.

Conversely, if the relationship is rushed without the grounding of genuine love, emotional maturity, and spiritual harmony, the risk of regret strains the marriage. Biblical guidelines encourage neither recklessness nor undue delays but a thoughtful evaluation of all relevant factors.

Seeking Wise Counsel

Proverbs 15:22 underscores the importance of guidance: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Those considering marriage benefit from seeking godly counsel from parents, mentors, or church leaders. Archaeological and historical records—such as contract tablets from the Ancient Near East—show that families and communities often guided young couples as they planned their unions. Today, Christian premarital counseling embraces a similar concept, addressing topics like communication, finances, and spiritual leadership.

Considering God’s Calling

Some individuals feel a calling to remain single for the sake of focused ministry or other reasons aligned with God’s will (see Matthew 19:12). Yet, for many, marriage aligns with God’s creation design. First Corinthians 7 details the Apostle Paul’s view: believers are free to remain single if so called, and they are equally free to marry if that best assists in honoring God.

Therefore, while one’s calling varies by circumstance, the overarching question is whether marriage fits into God’s plan for the individual’s life—both for service to God and for personal growth in holiness.

Conclusion

In summary, Scripture teaches that marriage is a sacred covenant established by God for companionship, mutual edification, and the raising of godly offspring. There is no rigidly prescribed age in Scripture for marriage. Instead, the Bible highlights markers of readiness: spiritual maturity, emotional stability, practical preparation, and alignment with God’s calling.

One should get married at a time when these conditions converge—when both individuals are walking in step with the Lord, exhibit responsibility within life’s obligations, practice proper stewardship, and desire to commit themselves wholly to honoring God through their union. By adhering to wise biblical principles and seeking godly counsel, believers can discern the most fitting season to enter into marriage and experience the lifelong blessing intended from the beginning of creation.