4) Edify each other always.

Never tear each other down. We all know and observe married couples who seem to find delight in making verbal jabs at each other. There is a place for teasing that is done in good fun. However, much of this is really a subtle form of tearing down a spouse, often hidden behind the cloak of humor. We have all heard a wife make snide remarks about her husband to others, in his presence or behind his back. This slowly eats away at the bonds of trust and respect in their marriage. Ladies, please resolve in your heart right now that you will never do this.

However, wives are not the only ones guilty of this; husbands do this too. Gentlemen, make a commitment in your heart right now that you will not allow this habit to form in your courtship relationship. If you tolerate it now it will only come more easily later. Only speak well of each other to others. There are times you will need to correct each other in love, but do that in private, for edification not humiliation.

Also, edify and encourage other couples. Resist any temptation to compete with each other, which is rarely conscious or intentional. Seek for ways to help each other's relationship grow stronger in the Lord. The old-fashioned practice of double-dating is something you ought to consider. Not only is this a good protective measure, but it will also foster encouragement and nurture friendships that will last a lifetime.

Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to his edification (Romans 15:2).