I Want To, I Do, I Did

by Detrick Redding

Relationships, relationships, oh my relationships! We have a society of mixed emotions about relationships. Relationships are truly powerful if you will embrace them properly. We must admit that the improper ideologies of today’s relationship have clouded the judgment of many concerning the idea of marriage. Traumatic encounters and misguided men and women cause wrestling within, hindering even the desire of a relationship. Is there even any comfort in a relationship? Do I even want to get in a relationship now? Do I really want to say I do? Will I regret that I did? We need to discover the joy in relationship!

finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.” Now, that scripture was a great one. However, God challenged me, and “find a wife” was imprinted on my heart. This meant not finding a woman to marry, but finding a woman who was already a wife. Wow! God said to me, “Find someone that’s married to me!” A person that’s already in love and married to God will, in return, be committed to love and be committed to you!

The life of being with someone who is committed to God is so rewarding. The Apostle Paul teaches us in 2 Corinthians 6:14 not to be unequally yoked with an unbeliever. The union of marriage is a blessing, especially when you’re committed to God. Even in creation, God stated that Eve was to be a suitable helper to Adam. To be on the same page in life doesn’t eliminate problems or challenges within the union, and it doesn’t mean that everyone will do everything right. But unity of mind and heart provides the proper foundation to overcome obstacles and all hurdles. My wife Toris and I are an example of this truth. We have not had things go perfectly. However, this foundation of commitment to God keeps us committed to each other.

Over 18 years ago, I said, “I do,” and I don’t regret it at all. Before I married, I was your typical single fellow in the church. Marriage was really all that I had to look forward to. I saw marriage—my mom and dad exemplified it before me. I saw it in my church with several couples. I was always on the lookout to find “the future lady” of my life. So, one day in prayer, the Spirit of the Lord moved upon my heart and said to look at Proverbs 18:22, which says, “He who

For existing couples, commit yourself to God and receive the strength of His love for your marriage. For those who are single, fall in love with God and commit yourself to Him, and His love in your heart will build the foundation for joy and endurance. Keep your “want to” and your time to say “I do” will come, and then you will never regret that “you did!”

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