Build a hedge around your marriage

How do you build a hedge around your marriage, so you will not be too familiar with the opposite sex.

10 top practical tips with Bible references

Building a hedge around your marriage means setting up boundaries to protect your relationship from emotional and physical temptations. Here are ten practical tips, supported by Bible references:

1. Prioritize Your Spouse Above Others

Make it clear that your spouse is your number one priority after God. Give them the attention, time, and affection they deserve.
Bible Verse: “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” — Genesis 2:24

2. Avoid Private or Intimate Conversations with the Opposite Sex

Refrain from discussing personal or emotional matters with someone of the opposite sex, as this can lead to emotional bonds.
Bible Verse: “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.” — Proverbs 4:23

3. Set Clear Physical Boundaries

Avoid unnecessary physical contact that can be misinterpreted or lead to temptation, such as prolonged hugs or holding hands.
Bible Verse: “Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body.” — 1 Corinthians 6:18

4. Be Transparent About Your Interactions

Share with your spouse when you need to interact with the opposite sex, ensuring there are no hidden meetings or conversations.
Bible Verse: “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them.” — Proverbs 11:3

5. Avoid Being Alone with the Opposite Sex

As much as possible, avoid situations where you are alone with someone of the opposite sex, whether at work, in social settings, or in ministry.
Bible Verse: “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:22

6. Guard Your Words and Flirtatious Behavior

Be mindful of your speech, jokes, and body language to avoid sending the wrong signals.
Bible Verse: “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” — Colossians 4:6

7. Involve Your Spouse in Friendships

If you have opposite-sex friendships, make sure your spouse is aware and included to keep everything open and accountable.
Bible Verse: “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9

8. Set Social Media Boundaries

Be mindful of how you engage with the opposite sex online. Avoid secret chats, late-night texting, or unnecessary attention on someone’s posts.
Bible Verse: “I will set nothing wicked before my eyes.” — Psalm 101:3

9. Strengthen Your Marriage Through Prayer and Quality Time

A strong, loving marriage naturally creates boundaries because your relationship is fulfilling and guarded by God.
Bible Verse: “A threefold cord is not quickly broken.” — Ecclesiastes 4:12

10. Seek Accountability and Wise Counsel

Have trusted Christian friends, mentors, or a pastor who can keep you accountable in maintaining marital purity.
Bible Verse: “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” — Proverbs 11:14

By implementing these boundaries, you not only protect your marriage but also honor God and set an example of integrity.