Summer and the season for weddings are here. When I have the opportunity to give the happy couple advice on how to create a successful marriage, I go back 34 years to the priestly words given to my husband and me just before our wedding. We learned that to have a successful marriage, you must balance five priorities in this order. Here is the secret.

#1- God- The most important relationship your whole life through should be God. Put Him first in your life and seek ways to do this. A great way to start would be joining a bible study, small group, or attending a weekly church service. It is essential to make this relationship a priority for both of you. Dig deep into your spirituality together. Make a point to include God in your life decisions. Don't leave Him on the sidelines. Most importantly, pray together.

#2-Spouse-Your spouse is your next priority. Don't make selfish decisions about things you want without your spouse's agreement. Make their thoughts, wishes, and conversations vital to you. As the old saying goes, talk is cheap; actions speak louder than words, so do the little things for your spouse. Be intentional about spending time together by going on regular dates. The best thing you can give your children is a beautiful marital relationship that is clearly seen. By working on this constantly, you demonstrate to your children what a healthy relationship should look like. One day, your kids will be grown, and you will only have each other. Invest in your marriage early and be mindful of cultivating it.

#3-Children: There is no doubt that kids can keep a family hopping. They have needs 24/7, and they require constant love and action. You can meet their needs best when your first two priorities are balanced. Be present with them and put your phone down to alleviate distractions. This shows them they are important. Let them hear you pray and teach them how. Be committed to sharing your beliefs so they can be solid in their faith to face this ever-changing world.

#4-Job: Jobs can be consuming, regardless of the career. Make a divide between work and family time. Keep a work/family life balance and stop the clock when work hours are finished. Be present for the people that matter the most. You want your family to know they are the priority in your life. Be careful not to elevate job demands over your family.

#5- Hobbies- Whatever you like to do, don't let this take time away from your main priorities. Hobbies can easily take time away from your family and put everybody out. This creates a feeling like the activity is more important than the family or the home life. Seek ways to incorporate the hobby with God, your spouse, and kids to share the moments together. It's ok to carve out time for the fun but keep it in balance so it doesn't constantly steal time from the family.

It is never too late to incorporate these principles into your own marriage. Start with God and follow with your spouse, children, job, and hobby. You and your entire family will reap the benefits of this balance throughout the years.

Ecclesiastes 4: 12 – Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.