11/03/2025
“Your Marriage Needs the Presence of God: Dwelling Under His Covering for Lasting Victory”
In Exodus 17, Moses stood on the hilltop with his hands lifted as Israel fought the Amalekites. As long as his hands were raised, the people prevailed. But when his hands fell, the enemy gained ground. When the battle was won, Moses declared, “The Lord is my banner.”
That story reveals something powerful about marriage — victory is found in His presence, not our performance. When we dwell under God’s covering, we’re not just inviting Him to bless our union; we’re acknowledging Him as the source of our strength, peace, and unity.
Too often, couples step out of that covering without realizing it. It happens when we focus more on what we want rather than what we can give. Self-focus creates distance, but God’s presence restores alignment — helping both spouses move in step with His will, not just personal desires.
In my own marriage, Leslie and I have learned that staying in God’s presence doesn’t mean we’ll always agree right away. Recently, we had different perspectives on a biblical topic. Instead of forcing a conclusion, we agreed to pray, study, and revisit it after a few weeks. What happened next was beautiful — not only did we find agreement, but we experienced a deeper connection and respect for one another’s spiritual growth.
That’s the fruit of dwelling. It’s not a task to check off; it’s a lifestyle. It’s choosing to continually inquire of God concerning your marriage, your children, your work, and every decision you make together. For Leslie and me, it looks like praying individually but sharing what we’re believing for, listening to the same faith-based audios, and feeding our spirits together.
When couples make God’s presence a lifestyle, they find alignment, agreement, and peace — the three elements every successful marriage needs.
So I encourage you: make the decision today to prioritize His presence. Don’t wait for a crisis to seek His covering. Build a lifestyle of dwelling daily, and watch how it transforms your home, communication, and purpose together.
A Prayer for Marriages
Heavenly Father, thank You for being our banner — our protection, our wisdom, and our peace. Teach us to dwell continually in Your presence and to walk in unity as one. Let every couple reading this find alignment in purpose, healing in their hearts, and strength in their covenant. May Your glory rest upon every marriage that seeks You first. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Join Us — Faith City Dwell Night
If this message speaks to you, I invite you to dwell with us in prayer, praise, and worship at Faith City Central’s Dwell Night — Friday, November 7 at 7:30 PM at the Temple Hills Campus. Come experience the presence of the Lord and let Him renew the foundation of your faith, family and marriage.
The MMEZ Team
