Ellen White's Perspective on Seeking God's Approval for Marriage

Yes, Ellen White taught that marriage is a sacred ordinance instituted by God and should only be entered into after seeking divine counsel to ensure the union is in harmony with His willAH 70.1+1. A sincere Christian will make no plans, especially regarding a life partner, that God cannot approveMYP 435.2.

Seeking Divine Approval

Before taking a step that binds two people for life, it is essential to consider the matter with calm reason and seek counsel from the Bible and the LordAH 70.1. Those contemplating marriage should solemnly and prayerfully ask whether the union will help them heavenward, increase their love for God, and enlarge their sphere of usefulnessFE 104.3. Heaven looks with pleasure upon a marriage formed with an earnest desire to conform to the directions given in ScriptureAH 70.1.

The Danger of Selfish Motives

Marriage should never be entered upon in a spirit of selfishness or guided by "lovesick sentimentalism"AH 70.1+1. Choosing one's own way in opposition to the requirements of God is a dangerous path that often leads to unhappiness and spiritual ruinLYL 25.4+1. In some instances, individuals move forward in secretiveness, fearing that their plans might be interfered with by God's counsel or the advice of faithful friendsAH 70.1+1.

Important Considerations for a Godly Union

• Spiritual Unity: One of the greatest dangers is uniting in marriage with unbelievers, as the love for the human often eclipses the love for the divine 2 Corinthians 6:14-152BC 1000.1.

• Maturity and Experience: Young people should have enough age and experience to make a safe and honorable choice, as attachments formed in childhood often result in wretched unionsLYL 19.1+1.

• Parental Counsel: Early connections formed without the consent of parents have seldom proved happyApM 8.1.

• Character Development: Marriage should be put from the mind until one overcomes defects in their own character, as an undisciplined person will not make a happy companionT23 114.1+1.

Marriage as a Symbol of the Divine

When a marriage is conducted according to God's will, the husband and wife blend their interests with Jesus Christ and share a happiness that angels commendCCh 130.6+1. The marriage relation is a symbol of the tender and sacred union between Christ and His churchHLv 94.3+1. Therefore, every step toward an alliance should be characterized by an earnest purpose to please and honor God 1 Corinthians 10:31MYP 435.2.

The Consequences of Disobedience

Disregarding God’s express commands regarding marriage can lead to a "galling yoke" where love dies out and is replaced by distrust or hateTSB 112.1. In the days of Noah and Lot, the people were so occupied with marrying and giving in marriage without God's approval that they lost eternity out of their reckoning Luke 17:26-30Te 283.2. We are urged to watch and be ready, ensuring we are clothed in the wedding garment of Christ's righteousness before the King returns Revelation 19:7-8RH February 25, 1909, par. 9.