Dear Emmanuela
Dear Newlyweds: “Build with God Now—Your Future Depends on It”
Welcome to Dear Emmanuela….
Where wisdom meets grace for your journey to lasting love.
Dear Emmanuela,
We’re just starting our marriage—full of love, dreams, and big plans for our future. We want to build something that lasts, but we’re not quite sure where to begin. What really matters in the early years?
Thank you for your question! Let me tell you from nearly two decades of marriage and coaching: how you build now will shape everything that comes after. The beginning of your marriage isn’t just a honeymoon season—it’s the foundation of your legacy. And if God isn’t at the center now, the cracks will eventually show.
I’ve seen it too many times. Couples who meant well, loved hard, but didn’t anchor deep. Life hit. Careers shifted. Babies came. Expectations clashed. And without God as their cornerstone, they started to drift—slowly, silently.
But I’ve also seen couples who made the decision early to let God write their love story. They didn’t just build a marriage—they built a mission.
The Blueprint for a God-Centered Start in your marriage
“Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” —Psalm 127:1
If you want your marriage to thrive long after the butterflies fade, you have to invite the Master Architect in from the beginning.
God-centered marriages don’t happen by accident. They’re built through:
Intentional time in prayer together
Honest conversations about purpose, boundaries, and expectations
Pursuing personal growth in Christ—not just couple goals
Committing to forgive quickly and love unconditionally
Your Early Actions Shape Future Generations
Your marriage is the soil from which your children’s future relationships will grow. The way you handle conflict, serve one another, and walk with God will echo in their lives long after you’re gone.
This is why you must guard your covenant fiercely. You’re not just building for the moment—you’re building for your legacy.
Action Steps for Newlyweds
Establish a Weekly “God Check-In”
Sit together once a week to ask: How are we doing spiritually? What is God teaching us individually and as a couple?Create a Marriage Prayer Journal
Write down answered prayers, struggles, and goals. This will become a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness.Find a Mentor Couple
Learn from those who’ve walked the road ahead of you. Wisdom is wealth in marriage.Set Healthy Rhythms Early
Don't wait for crisis to pray, date, or talk. Build the habits now.
Your marriage is a ministry, not just a milestone. You’re not just husband and wife—you’re co-builders of a kingdom legacy. Let God be the center of every brick you lay.
💌 Email your questions to E@DearEmmanuela.com
🕊️ Newly married? Let’s build your legacy with purpose. Book your “First-Year Foundations”
https://www.wivesintraining.com/couples-consultation
With faith in God for your love story,
Emmanuela Rodenberg
Author of How to Attract a Godly Husband
Minister of the Gospel
Certified Christian Marriage Coach
Christian Dating & Relationship Coach
Founder & CEO, Wives in Training International
P.S. Hit reply and tell me — what’s one thing you're praying for in your marriage? I’d love to pray with you! 🙏 or what’s your biggest challenge with dating
If you’ve been wanting an easy, natural way to cover grays and feel refreshed, I highly recommend the Instant Dye Shampoo from Polar Haircare. It covers grays in just 10 minutes, has no ammonia, and leaves your hair looking radiant—like the queen you are. 👑
💌 Got a Question for Emmanuela?
Have a question about love, dating, or marriage that’s been on your heart?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to walk through it alone either. That’s what Dear Emmanuela is here for: to offer wisdom, truth, and grace for your real-life relationship questions.
Ask anonymously or leave your name—it’s completely up to you. Your question may be featured (anonymously) in a future blog post to help other women who may be going through the same thing.
Fill out the form below or email me directly at E@DearEmmanuela.com
““The Garden You Grow: Creating the Marriage You Desire with Intentional Love”
Welcome to Dear Emmanuela….
Where wisdom meets grace for your journey to lasting love.
Creating the Relationship You Desire Starts with Daily Intentionality
As a Christian dating and marriage coach, I sit with countless couples who find themselves wondering, “How did we get here?”
They didn’t plan to drift apart.
They didn’t expect their covenant to feel more like a contract.
They just woke up one day and realized that something beautiful had been buried under years of busyness, unspoken frustrations, and unmet expectations.
I hear it in different voices, different stories, but it’s always the same heartache.
One husband said, “We’re polite, but we don’t laugh like we used to.”
A wife recently confessed, “We haven’t had a real conversation in months. I feel more like his roommate than his wife.”
These moments break my heart—and stir it with compassion. Because I know this: love can be rekindled, but not passively.
The marriages we dream of don’t happen by accident. They’re built—on purpose, with prayer, with intention, and with God.
Intentional Love Begins With Vision
Proverbs 29:18 tells us, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” The same is true for marriage. Couples without vision often drift into disconnection—not because they stopped loving each other, but because they stopped seeing where they were going.
Ask yourself:
What kind of marriage do we want to build?
What values do we want to live by?
What legacy do we want to leave behind?
When you both know the why, it becomes easier to navigate the how.
Intentional Actions Water the Relationship
Love thrives in the little things. A text that says, “I’m praying for you today.” A soft word instead of a sharp one when you’re frustrated. Scheduling a date night—even if it’s just pizza after the kids go to bed.
Jesus said in Luke 16:10, “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much.” In marriage, the “least” things—your tone of voice, your presence, your encouragement—carry eternal weight.
Start small. But do daily.
Intentional Healing Breaks the Cycle
Being intentional also means confronting what’s not working—with grace.
Unforgiveness is like poison in the soil. Left unaddressed, it chokes love’s potential. But forgiveness, boundaries, and honest conversation can uproot what’s dead and make room for new life.
God never calls us to ignore pain—but to redeem it. As you choose healing, you open the door to deeper connection.
Intentional Faith Anchors Everything
No strategy or communication tip can replace the transforming power of God’s love.
When both partners commit to pursuing Christ individually, their marriage becomes more than just a union—it becomes a testimony. And even if one spouse isn’t there yet, your intentional walk with God still carries weight. Your prayers matter. Your example matters.
As Paul wrote in Galatians 6:9, “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
A Final Thought
Most struggling couples are looking for a step by step plan on how to have the marriage they desire. What I tell couples is that the first step is deciding to become the kind of spouse that builds with intention. Everything starts with a decision!
So let me ask you,
What kind of marriage do you desire—and are you planting the seeds today that will bloom tomorrow?
Start small. Start now. But start intentionally.
Because the marriage you long for isn’t found—it’s built, hand in hand, with God.
Contact me at https://www.wivesintraining.com/couples-consultation
With faith in God for your love story,
Emmanuela Rodenberg
Author of How to Attract a Godly Husband
Minister of the Gospel
Certified Christian Marriage Coach
Christian Dating & Relationship Coach
Founder & CEO, Wives in Training International
P.S. Hit reply and tell me — what’s one thing you're praying for in your marriage? I’d love to pray with you! 🙏 or what’s your biggest challenge with dating
If you’ve been wanting an easy, natural way to cover grays and feel refreshed, I highly recommend the Instant Dye Shampoo from Polar Haircare. It covers grays in just 10 minutes, has no ammonia, and leaves your hair looking radiant—like the queen you are. 👑
💌 Got a Question for Emmanuela?
Have a question about love, dating, or marriage that’s been on your heart?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to walk through it alone either. That’s what Dear Emmanuela is here for: to offer wisdom, truth, and grace for your real-life relationship questions.
Ask anonymously or leave your name—it’s completely up to you. Your question may be featured (anonymously) in a future blog post to help other women who may be going through the same thing.
Fill out the form below or email me directly at E@DearEmmanuela.com
“The Power of Presence: Why In-Person Connection Matters More Than Ever”
Welcome to Dear Emmanuela….
Where wisdom meets grace for your journey to lasting love.
In a world of DMs, dating apps, and text threads, it’s never been easier to connect—and yet, so many of us feel more disconnected than ever.
As a Christian dating and marriage coach, I see it all the time: singles frustrated by surface-level interactions and married couples living more like roommates than soulmates. We’re craving something deeper. And the truth is, no amount of emojis or perfectly worded messages can replace what happens when two people share space, eye contact, and heart-level presence.
God made us for connection. Real, face-to-face, shoulder-to-shoulder, heart-to-heart connection.
“Let us not give up meeting together... but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” —Hebrews 10:25
Why In-Person Connection Is So Powerful
There’s something sacred about presence. Jesus didn’t just send messages from heaven—He came. He walked, wept, ate, laughed, and lived among us. And that tells us something about love: it’s meant to be embodied.
Whether you’re a single person navigating the dating world or a married couple trying to reignite your spark, in-person connection is often the missing piece.
When you're physically present:
You pick up on non-verbal cues—tone, body language, energy.
You foster vulnerability and trust.
You share unfiltered moments (even the awkward ones) that deepen intimacy.
You model Christlike love by being fully present—just like He is with us.
For Singles: Make Space for Real Connection
Here are a few ways singles can move beyond screens and into authentic relationships:
1. Be Where People Are
Attend church events, young adult ministries, small groups, or local meetups. Say yes to gatherings where God’s people come together. Trust that He works in community.
2. Initiate with Intention
Don’t wait for someone else to make the first move. Invite someone for coffee, join a Bible study, or offer to pray with someone. Intentionality builds bridges.
3. Ditch the Phone on Dates
When you're on a date, put the phone away. Look them in the eye. Listen more than you speak. Be curious. Be kind. Be present.
4. Embrace the Awkward
Yes, in-person conversations can feel clunky. But love isn’t built on perfection—it’s built on persistence, honesty, and grace.
For Married Couples: Reignite the Power of Presence
Busyness, screens, and routine can dull even the strongest marriages. But with God’s help, you can rekindle connection by getting intentional.
1. Schedule “Unplugged” Time Together
Set aside a weekly “no phones” evening. Go for a walk, cook dinner together, or just talk on the porch. Presence speaks louder than any words.
2. Try Something New Together
Shared experiences spark bonding. Sign up for a dance class, go hiking, serve at a ministry together—anything that gets you out of the routine.
3. Pray Face-to-Face
Don’t just pray for your spouse—pray with them. Holding hands. Looking into each other’s eyes. It’s powerful. It’s vulnerable. And it invites God in.
4. Speak Life Daily
Look them in the eye and say, “I’m proud of you.” “I see you.” “I’m with you.” In-person words of affirmation can soften hearts and strengthen connection.
Final Thoughts: Be Present Like Jesus
Presence is a gift. And like any gift, it requires intentionality, vulnerability, and love. Whether you're waiting for love, fighting for it, or working to strengthen it—never underestimate the power of simply showing up.
Let’s be people who don’t hide behind screens, who risk the awkward, who lean in rather than pull away. Let’s love like Jesus—fully present, unconditionally invested, and deeply real.
Because when we show up in person, we don’t just build relationships—we reflect the heart of God.
Contact me at https://www.wivesintraining.com/couples-consultation
With faith in God for your love story,
Emmanuela Rodenberg
Author of How to Attract a Godly Husband
Minister of the Gospel
Certified Christian Marriage Coach
Christian Dating & Relationship Coach
Founder & CEO, Wives in Training International
P.S. Hit reply and tell me — what’s one thing you're praying for in your marriage? I’d love to pray with you! 🙏 or what’s your biggest challenge with dating
If you’ve been wanting an easy, natural way to cover grays and feel refreshed, I highly recommend the Instant Dye Shampoo from Polar Haircare. It covers grays in just 10 minutes, has no ammonia, and leaves your hair looking radiant—like the queen you are. 👑
💌 Got a Question for Emmanuela?
Have a question about love, dating, or marriage that’s been on your heart?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to walk through it alone either. That’s what Dear Emmanuela is here for: to offer wisdom, truth, and grace for your real-life relationship questions.
Ask anonymously or leave your name—it’s completely up to you. Your question may be featured (anonymously) in a future blog post to help other women who may be going through the same thing.
Fill out the form below or email me directly at E@DearEmmanuela.com
Honoring Fathers: The Blueprint of Godly Manhood in Love and Leadership
Welcome to Dear Emmanuela….
Where wisdom meets grace for your journey to lasting love.
As Father’s Day approaches, our hearts turn to the men who have shaped our lives—fathers, stepfathers, spiritual fathers, and mentors. In a world where the role of men in relationships is often misunderstood or diminished, this is a powerful opportunity to celebrate God’s divine design for fatherhood and masculinity.
Whether you are a single woman seeking a husband or a married couple building a kingdom-focused home, this moment calls us to reflect on the sacred calling of men to love, lead, and protect.
God’s Blueprint for Fathers and Husbands
Ephesians 5:25, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” This is the foundation of godly manhood: sacrificial love. A true father and husband isn’t perfect, but he mirrors Christ—steadfast, servant-hearted, and deeply committed.
This kind of manhood isn’t formed overnight. It’s cultivated through relationship with God, mentorship, and a desire to serve rather than be served.
For the Women: What to Look For
If you're a single woman, Father’s Day is a moment to examine not just your past, but your future. What kind of father do you want your children to have? What kind of spiritual legacy will your marriage build? Look for a man who walks with integrity, seeks wisdom, and leads not with ego but with humility.
Don’t settle for charm without character. Choose a man who’s not just father-material—but faith-filled and Spirit-led.
For Married Couples: Honor the Father in Your Home
Wives, this weekend is an opportunity to speak life into your husband. Let your words affirm his role not just as a provider, but as a spiritual leader. Honor his efforts, his sacrifices, and his prayers—even the silent ones.
Together, recommit to building a marriage that points your children to Jesus. Let your home be a place where love, respect, and grace abound.
A Prayer for the Fathers
“Lord, we thank You for the gift of fathers—those who have loved well and those still learning. Strengthen the men in our lives. Help them lead with wisdom, love with tenderness, and walk in step with You. Raise up a generation of godly men who fear You and serve their families well. Amen.”
This Father’s Day, let us rise above the clichés and go deeper—celebrating not just biological fathers but all men who reflect the heart of the Father in heaven.
Let us call out greatness in our men, encourage growth, and always point to Christ, the ultimate example of love and leadership.
Contact me at https://www.wivesintraining.com/couples-consultation
With faith in God for your love story,
Emmanuela Rodenberg
Author of How to Attract a Godly Husband
Minister of the Gospel
Certified Christian Marriage Coach
Christian Dating & Relationship Coach
Founder & CEO, Wives in Training International
P.S. Hit reply and tell me — what’s one thing you're praying for in your marriage? I’d love to pray with you! 🙏
If you’ve been wanting an easy, natural way to cover grays and feel refreshed, I highly recommend the Instant Dye Shampoo from Polar Haircare. It covers grays in just 10 minutes, has no ammonia, and leaves your hair looking radiant—like the queen you are. 👑
💌 Got a Question for Emmanuela?
Have a question about love, dating, or marriage that’s been on your heart?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to walk through it alone either. That’s what Dear Emmanuela is here for: to offer wisdom, truth, and grace for your real-life relationship questions.
Ask anonymously or leave your name—it’s completely up to you. Your question may be featured (anonymously) in a future blog post to help other women who may be going through the same thing.
Fill out the form below or email me directly at E@DearEmmanuela.com
“Let’s Get Closer”: 7 Intentional Ways to Build Intimacy in Your Marriage
Welcome to Dear Emmanuela….
Where wisdom meets grace for your journey to lasting love.
As a Christian marriage coach, I often hear couples say, “We love each other, but we don’t feel close anymore.” If that’s you, I want you to know: you’re not alone—and more importantly, you’re not stuck. Marital intimacy is not automatic; it’s cultivated. And while the world often limits intimacy to the physical, Scripture teaches us that intimacy begins in the heart and flows into every part of our relationship—spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and yes, physically.
Let’s talk about intentional ways you and your spouse can rebuild, reignite, and deepen your intimacy—God’s way.
1. Pray Together Daily
There’s no intimacy without spiritual unity. Prayer invites the Holy Spirit into the middle of your marriage. When you and your spouse pray aloud together—even just five minutes a day—it softens your hearts, breaks down walls, and strengthens your emotional connection.
🕊 “For where two or three gather in My name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20
Intimacy Tip: Start or end your day with hand-in-hand prayer. Let your spouse hear you pray for them.
2. Create Space for Uninterrupted Conversation
In a world full of distractions, undivided attention is one of the most romantic gifts you can give. Set aside time weekly—without screens, without kids—to talk, dream, and check in with each other.
Intimacy Tip: Ask intentional questions like, “How’s your heart lately?” or “What’s one thing I can do to love you better this week?”
3. Touch Outside the Bedroom
Physical affection isn’t just for sexual moments. Holding hands, hugging, touching shoulders—these little gestures say, “I see you. I love you. I’m still choosing you.” And they build a bridge for deeper connection.
Intimacy Tip: Aim for a “10-second hug” or kiss every day—it releases oxytocin (the bonding hormone)!
4. Date Each Other Again
Dating shouldn’t stop after the wedding. In fact, married couples need it more. It reminds you both that romance is still alive and that your relationship is worth nurturing.
Intimacy Tip: Plan one “mini-date” at home each week—even if it’s just dessert and conversation after the kids go to bed. Be creative!
5. Practice Emotional Transparency
You cannot have intimacy without vulnerability. Be willing to share your fears, your failures, your desires, and your dreams. And listen with grace when your spouse does the same.
🕊 “The man and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame.” – Genesis 2:25
Intimacy Tip: Try journaling and exchanging your entries once a week. It’s a gentle way to open up emotionally.
6. Serve Each Other with Joy
Acts of service—done without expectation—can break down emotional barriers and spark fresh appreciation. Intimacy is fueled when we feel seen, supported, and served.
Intimacy Tip: Ask, “What can I take off your plate today?” and follow through. Small acts done in love build lasting closeness.
7. Pursue Sexual Intimacy with Intention
God designed sex to be a powerful expression of love, trust, and unity in marriage. It’s more than physical—it’s deeply spiritual. Intimacy flourishes when both partners feel emotionally safe and spiritually connected.
🕊 “Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth.” – Proverbs 5:18
Intimacy Tip: Talk openly about your desires, needs, and boundaries. Don’t avoid the conversation—lean into it with grace.
Intimacy doesn’t just happen. It’s planted, watered, and nurtured—daily. And just like any garden, it requires patience, intentionality, and a whole lot of love. But here’s the beautiful truth: when God is at the center of your marriage, no intimacy issue is too far gone. He restores. He rekindles. He makes all things new.
So, take the first step today. Don’t wait until it’s convenient. Start pursuing your spouse with fresh eyes and renewed purpose.
Because a Christ-centered marriage isn't just about staying together. It’s about growing closer—heart to heart, hand in hand, and soul to soul.
Need help rebuilding intimacy in your marriage?
Let’s talk. I offer private coaching for couples who are ready to heal, reconnect, and love deeper—God’s way. 💍
Contact me at https://www.wivesintraining.com/couples-consultation
With faith in God for your love story,
Emmanuela Rodenberg
Author of How to Attract a Godly Husband
Minister of the Gospel
Certified Christian Marriage Coach
Christian Dating & Relationship Coach
Founder & CEO, Wives in Training International
P.S. Hit reply and tell me — what’s one thing you're praying for in your marriage? I’d love to pray with you! 🙏
If you’ve been wanting an easy, natural way to cover grays and feel refreshed, I highly recommend the Instant Dye Shampoo from Polar Haircare. It covers grays in just 10 minutes, has no ammonia, and leaves your hair looking radiant—like the queen you are. 👑
💌 Got a Question for Emmanuela?
Have a question about love, dating, or marriage that’s been on your heart?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to walk through it alone either. That’s what Dear Emmanuela is here for: to offer wisdom, truth, and grace for your real-life relationship questions.
Ask anonymously or leave your name—it’s completely up to you. Your question may be featured (anonymously) in a future blog post to help other women who may be going through the same thing.
Fill out the form below or email me directly at E@DearEmmanuela.com
WHEN IT LOOKS LIKE NOTHING’S HAPPENING… GOD IS STILL WORKING
Welcome to Dear Emmanuela….
Where wisdom meets grace for your journey to lasting love.
Hello love,
Let’s talk heart to heart—because I know what it’s like to believe for something God promised… and feel like nothing is moving.
You’ve prayed. You’ve fasted. You’ve stood in faith. You’ve trusted God’s voice. And yet—no signs. No updates. Just silence. But here’s what I’ve come to know deep in my spirit: God is faithful. And just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean He’s not doing it.
Whether you're waiting for love, holding on to a God-given dream, or stewarding a vision He placed in your heart—He’s not ignoring you. He’s fulfilling His Word, in His perfect time.
1. WAITING IS ACTIVE, NOT PASSIVE
We often think of waiting as sitting still, but real faith is never stagnant. The Word says, faith without works is dead(James 2:17). So, ask yourself—what am I doing while I wait?
Because the truth is, I can tell what you’re believing for by what you’re doing.
If you believe God is sending you a godly spouse, are you becoming a godly wife?
If you believe God is calling you to ministry, are you serving now, in the quiet place?
If you believe God is going to expand your territory, are you managing your current space well?
Waiting looks like obedience. It looks like preparation. It looks like being faithful in what’s now so you’re ready for what’s next.
“His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things.” — Matthew 25:23 (KJV)
2. GOD IS BUILDING YOU TO CARRY THE BLESSING
Sometimes the delay isn’t about the promise—it’s about the preparation. God won’t place weight on a foundation that isn’t strong enough to hold it.
So if you’re in a season where everything looks the same on the outside, trust that He’s working on the inside. He’s stretching your character. Strengthening your faith. Teaching you how to steward small things with excellence.
Can you manage your home now?
Can you discipline your body now?
Can you be consistent with your finances, your spiritual life, your daily habits—now?
If you can be trusted with little, God can trust you with much.
3. OBEDIENCE IS A SIGN OF FAITH
One of the purest ways we show our trust in God is through our obedience. Not just when it’s easy, but when it’s quiet. When there’s no confirmation yet. When we feel tired and unsure, but we obey anyway.
Obedience is faith in action. Every time you show up—at church, in prayer, in the secret place, in your calling—you are declaring: I still believe.
So keep showing up. Keep sowing seeds. Keep becoming the woman God has called you to be. Even if nobody else sees it yet, heaven does. And God always honors obedience.
FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT
You may not see fruit yet. You may not have the house, the husband, the platform, the confirmation—but you do have a faithful God.
You’re not just waiting. You’re preparing. And preparation is proof that you believe the promise is real.
Let this be your reminder: God finishes what He starts. He’s not just preparing the blessing for you—He’s preparing you for the blessing.
Stay obedient. Stay faithful. Stay expectant. He’s working, even now.
With faith in God for your love story,
Emmanuela Rodenberg
Author of How to Attract a Godly Husband
Minister of the Gospel
Certified Christian Marriage Coach
Christian Dating & Relationship Coach
Founder & CEO, Wives in Training International
P.S. Hit reply and tell me — what’s one thing you're praying for in your future marriage? I’d love to pray with you! 🙏
And while you're praying and preparing for the love God has for you, don’t forget to care for yourself too.
If you’ve been wanting an easy, natural way to cover grays and feel refreshed, I highly recommend the Instant Dye Shampoo from Polar Haircare. It covers grays in just 10 minutes, has no ammonia, and leaves your hair looking radiant—like the queen you are. 👑
💌 Got a Question for Emmanuela?
Have a question about love, dating, or marriage that’s been on your heart?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to walk through it alone either. That’s what Dear Emmanuela is here for: to offer wisdom, truth, and grace for your real-life relationship questions.
Ask anonymously or leave your name—it’s completely up to you. Your question may be featured (anonymously) in a future blog post to help other women who may be going through the same thing.
Fill out the form below or email me directly at E@DearEmmanuela.com
How Christian Singles Can Stay Faithful in Their Waiting Season
Welcome to Dear Emmanuela….
Where wisdom meets grace for your journey to lasting love.
Hey sis,
Let’s take a deep breath together, because I know waiting can feel like the hardest part of the promise.
If you’re single, saved, and serious about doing it God’s way, you know the tension I’m talking about. You’ve been praying. You’ve been trusting. You’ve been watching others get engaged, married, have babies—while you’re still trying to hold back tears at weddings and baby showers, asking God silently, “When is it going to be my turn?”
I’ve been there. And I want you to know this: waiting is not a punishment. It’s preparation. God doesn’t delay to deprive—He delays to develop. Your future marriage is far too precious to be rushed.
So let’s talk about how you can stay faithful—not just in status, but in spirit—while you wait.
1. Stay Rooted in Your Identity
Let me remind you of a truth that the enemy hopes you forget: You are not incomplete just because you’re single. You are not behind. You are not overlooked. You are chosen, set apart, and called—right now, as you are.
Your identity is not “single,” it’s “child of God.” Marriage will not add value to your life—Jesus already gave you your worth. So while you're waiting for your spouse, keep anchoring your heart in who you already are in Christ. That foundation will serve you well when the storms of marriage come—and yes, they will come.
2. Seek God and His Will for Your Life
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” — Matthew 6:33 (KJV)
It’s easy to get caught up seeking a spouse, a wedding date, a sign—but God is asking you to seek Him. Because everything else flows from that place. When you align yourself with the will of God, you won’t have to chase what He already plans to give you.
God has a good and perfect will for your life. His Word says, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you… thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end” (Jeremiah 29:11). But that path begins with surrender. When you walk in righteousness and truth, when you learn how to obey Him even when it’s hard—that’s when you’re being prepared to love someone else with Christ at the center.
Sis, build your relationship with the Lord now. Become a woman or man of the Word now. Why? Because marriage comes with warfare. The enemy doesn’t want you in a godly union that glorifies God—he wants to divide, distract, and destroy. But when you’re grounded in God, you won’t fall apart under pressure. You’ll stand firm, clothed in strength and dignity, equipped to fight on your knees when the battle comes.
3. Say No to Counterfeits
Listen, not everyone who says “God told me you’re my spouse” is telling the truth. Not every “church-going” man is submitted. And not every “God-fearing” woman fears the Lord.
The longer you wait, the easier it is to confuse attention with intention. But the devil doesn’t send you something you don’t want—he sends a counterfeit that looks like what you prayed for.
Let me be clear: settling may get you married, but it won’t get you peace. Don’t trade your standards for a warm body and a pretty ring. Say no to anything that costs you your peace, your purpose, or your purity.
4. Live Fully Right Now
You don’t have to hit pause on your life just because you're not married yet. The wait isn’t the wilderness unless you choose to make it one.
Serve. Travel. Start that business. Write the book. Go back to school. Host Bible studies. Learn to cook (yes, I said it 😄). Strengthen your friendships. Spend time with your family. Develop your character. The habits you build now will follow you into marriage.
You are not in a holding pattern—you’re in preparation. And the more intentional you are about living well now, the more fruit you’ll carry into your future relationship.
5. Stay in Community
The enemy loves isolation because it’s where his lies are the loudest. Don’t give him that opportunity.
Plug into your church. Join the Christian Wives in Training group. Join a small group. Stay close to wise, Spirit-filled friends who can hold you accountable and encourage you when the wait feels heavy.
It’s easy to fall into “no one understands what I’m going through” mode, but that’s just not true. There are others who are walking this out too—faithfully, prayerfully, joyfully. You don’t have to do this alone.
6. Pray Bold, Honest Prayers
God doesn’t need your perfect words—He wants your honest heart. So cry out to Him. Pour it all out. Tell Him your fears, your frustrations, your desires. Be real. Be raw.
And while you’re at it, pray for your future spouse. Cover them in prayer now. Ask God to protect them, grow them, and keep them aligned with His will. You're not just preparing for love—you’re preparing to fight for someone in prayer long before you fight for them in person.
7. Trust God’s Timing Over Your Own
Sis, I know your heart is ready. I know the clock feels like it’s ticking. But God is never late.
He’s not ignoring you. He’s not playing games with your heart. He’s working, even when you don’t see it. His timing is perfect—every time.
When the blessing comes, it will make sense why the wait was necessary. What God is building in you now is exactly what your future spouse will need. Don’t rush what’s being carefully crafted by the Master’s hand.
Final Encouragement
I know waiting can be lonely. I know it can feel like everyone else is getting what you’ve been praying for. But don’t let go of the promise. God sees you. He hears every whispered prayer. He’s not just preparing your spouse—He’s preparing you.
This isn’t wasted time—it’s divine preparation. You’re not just waiting on a person. You’re waiting with purpose, and with God.
So stay faithful. Stay prayerful. Stay hopeful. God is faithful, and His plan for you is more beautiful than anything you could imagine.
Keep your eyes on Jesus, and I promise—He won’t let you miss what’s meant for you.
With faith in God for your love story,
Emmanuela Rodenberg
Author of How to Attract a Godly Husband
Minister of the Gospel
Certified Christian Marriage Coach
Christian Dating & Relationship Coach
Founder & CEO, Wives in Training International
P.S. Hit reply and tell me — what’s one thing you're praying for in your future marriage? I’d love to pray with you! 🙏
And while you're praying and preparing for the love God has for you, don’t forget to care for yourself too.
If you’ve been wanting an easy, natural way to cover grays and feel refreshed, I highly recommend the Instant Dye Shampoo from Polar Haircare. It covers grays in just 10 minutes, has no ammonia, and leaves your hair looking radiant—like the queen you are. 👑
💌 Got a Question for Emmanuela?
Have a question about love, dating, or marriage that’s been on your heart?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to walk through it alone either. That’s what Dear Emmanuela is here for: to offer wisdom, truth, and grace for your real-life relationship questions.
Ask anonymously or leave your name—it’s completely up to you. Your question may be featured (anonymously) in a future blog post to help other women who may be going through the same thing.
Fill out the form below or email me directly at E@DearEmmanuela.com
Is My Busy Life Keeping My Husband from finding me?
Welcome to Dear Emmanuela….
Where wisdom meets grace for your journey to lasting love.
Dear Emmanuela,
My life is full — work, school, raising my children, and just trying to keep everything together. I’ve been praying for God to bless me with the husband he has for me, but deep down I wonder… is all this busyness a “cover”? Am I using it, even unknowingly, as an excuse not to put myself in position to meet someone? Is there a certain posture I should be in to receive my husband?
— Honestly Wondering
Dear Honestly Wondering,
First, thank you for being vulnerable enough to ask what so many women silently wrestle with.
Let me speak to you not just as a coach, but as a sister in Christ: Being busy is not wrong. In fact, it often means you’re being faithful to the season God has placed you in. But here's the truth: busyness can become a barrier when it becomes a way to avoid vulnerability, hope, or even the courage to believe again for love.
So, is staying busy a “cover”?
It can be.
Sometimes we stay booked and busy to feel productive, but underneath, we’re avoiding the discomfort of waiting — or worse, disappointment. It’s easier to say “I just don’t have time to date” than to admit, “I’m afraid to open my heart again.” And that’s a real place. But God wants to meet you there.
Remember this: God can’t bless what you won’t make room for.
Is there a certain posture to receive your husband?
Absolutely — and it’s less about schedule and more about spirit.
Here’s what that posture looks like:
1. Spiritual Openness
Have you brought your desire for a husband before the Lord lately — not just years ago, but recently? Or have you filed it away under “maybe someday”?
“Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises to her.” – Luke 1:45
Faith invites expectation. It says, “I don’t just want a husband — I believe God still has one for me.”
2. Emotional Availability
This one is subtle. You might be open in theory but guarded in practice. Emotional availability means you’re willing to let someone see you — not your resume, not your titles, not your to-do list — but you. It means you're not automatically dismissing potential suitors, shutting down conversations, or refusing to engage because “you’re too busy.”
Godly men pursue — but they need access.
3. Practical Positioning
This doesn’t mean forcing anything. It simply means intention. Are you in the kinds of environments where godly men are present? Are you allowing your trusted community to introduce you or connect you? Are you approachable, joyful, feminine — even while handling business?
You don’t have to chase a husband. But you do need to make room — in your life, your heart, and your mindset. Sometimes the posture of receiving looks like slowing down just enough for God to interrupt your schedule.
Ask the Lord this:
“Am I hiding behind my responsibilities, or am I making space for what I’ve been believing You for?”
He’ll answer — and He’ll guide you.
Trust this: You are not behind. You are not forgotten. You are being prepared — even now — for a man who sees your strength, your heart, your faith, and your beauty. Keep living with intention, and stay expectant.
With faith in God for your love story,
Emmanuela Rodenberg
Author of How to Attract a Godly Husband
Minister of the Gospel
Certified Christian Marriage Coach
Christian Dating & Relationship Coach
Founder & CEO, Wives in Training International
P.S. Hit reply and tell me — what’s one thing you're praying for in your future marriage? I’d love to pray with you! 🙏
And while you're praying and preparing for the love God has for you, don’t forget to care for yourself too.
If you’ve been wanting an easy, natural way to cover grays and feel refreshed, I highly recommend the Instant Dye Shampoo from Polar Haircare. It covers grays in just 10 minutes, has no ammonia, and leaves your hair looking radiant—like the queen you are. 👑
💌 Got a Question for Emmanuela?
Have a question about love, dating, or marriage that’s been on your heart?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to walk through it alone either. That’s what Dear Emmanuela is here for: to offer wisdom, truth, and grace for your real-life relationship questions.
Ask anonymously or leave your name—it’s completely up to you. Your question may be featured (anonymously) in a future blog post to help other women who may be going through the same thing.
Fill out the form below or email me directly at E@DearEmmanuela.com
“Am I Too Late for Love? Trusting God’s Timing at 40 and Beyond”
Welcome to Dear Emmanuela….
Where wisdom meets grace for your journey to lasting love.
I want to answer a question that came in this week:
Dear Emmanuela,
Do you think that God may not have a mate for me? I’m in my 50's
Dear Sister in Christ,
First, thank you for opening your heart. It takes courage to say aloud what so many women quietly wonder. The longing for love is sacred—and I want to gently remind you: God sees it, honors it, and holds it tenderly.
You asked, “Do you think that God may not have a husband for me?” That’s a question many women wrestle with in different seasons. But let me assure you—your life is not behind you. It is still unfolding under the loving hand of a God who is both sovereign and deeply personal.
Psalm 138:8 says, “The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever.”
This is a promise you can hold onto. God’s purpose isn’t bound by your age, your past, or what culture says should’ve already happened.
Now, does that mean marriage is guaranteed? I won’t pretend to know every detail of God’s will. But I do know this: He’s a good Father. Matthew 7:11 reminds us He doesn’t withhold what is good. If marriage is a desire He placed in your heart, bring it to Him—not with fear, but with faith.
Think of Sarah, who became a mother long past childbearing years. Think of Ruth, who remarried after loss and heartache. God’s timing may not match the calendar—but it’s always right on time.
And as you wait, I want to lovingly shift your focus—not just on “finding” a husband, but on becoming the woman God is shaping you to be. Isaiah 64:4 reminds us: “No eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.”
He is working while you wait.
Have you ever looked at your life and thought, “Maybe God just doesn’t have a husband for me…”? If you’re in your late 30s, 40s, or even 50s, still hoping for love, it can feel like the world—and maybe even God—has passed you by.
But I want to encourage you today: He hasn’t.
I’ve coached many women who’ve felt the same ache, and I’ve watched God come through in ways more beautiful than they imagined. God’s plans are not limited by age, timing, or history. He is still writing your story.
Even when others assume your best days are behind you, God says: “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you.” (Isaiah 46:4)
You are still in His hands—and He’s still working all things together for your good (Romans 8:28).
So keep praying. Keep trusting. And most of all—keep living. The best is never behind you when you walk with the Lord.
With faith in God for your love story,
Emmanuela Rodenberg
Author of How to Attract a Godly Husband
Minister of the Gospel
Certified Christian Marriage Coach
Christian Dating & Relationship Coach
Founder & CEO, Wives in Training International
P.S. Hit reply and tell me — what’s one thing you're praying for in your future marriage? I’d love to pray with you! 🙏
And while you're praying and preparing for the love God has for you, don’t forget to care for yourself too.
If you’ve been wanting an easy, natural way to cover grays and feel refreshed, I highly recommend the Instant Dye Shampoo from Polar Haircare. It covers grays in just 10 minutes, has no ammonia, and leaves your hair looking radiant—like the queen you are. 👑
💌 Got a Question for Emmanuela?
Have a question about love, dating, or marriage that’s been on your heart?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to walk through it alone either. That’s what Dear Emmanuela is here for: to offer wisdom, truth, and grace for your real-life relationship questions.
Ask anonymously or leave your name—it’s completely up to you. Your question may be featured (anonymously) in a future blog post to help other women who may be going through the same thing.
Fill out the form below or email me directly at E@DearEmmanuela.com
"The Day I Almost Settled — And What God Taught Me About True Love"
Welcome to Dear Emmanuela….
Where wisdom meets grace for your journey to lasting love.
Dear Friends,
There was a moment in my life — maybe you’ve had one too — when I almost settled.
I was tired of waiting. Tired of wondering if God had forgotten me. Tired of seeing everyone else post engagement photos and wedding pictures while I was still waiting for my turn.
Someone came along who seemed good enough.
They were kind. They said the right things. They checked some of the boxes, but when I thought about the dreams that I had for myself and the life I had envisioned I knew this wasn’t it. I tried to convince myself, but I knew. The tugging, unsettled feeling, the doubt, I believe it was the Holy Spirit.
I knew, and God knew.
I knew they weren't God's best for me. I knew that I would be settling.
I knew I would have to shrink parts of myself to fit into that relationship.
I knew my spirit wasn’t at peace.
I knew God could do more.
Still, the temptation was real: "Maybe this is as good as it gets."
But by the grace of God, I didn’t settle.
I chose to trust during the uncomfortable wait instead of rushing into a comfortable compromise.
And looking back now?
I’m so glad I did. The man God had for me, my husband now was so worth the wait. There are so many beautiful blessings when we wait on God. He blesses us in ways that we couldn’t have imagined, He gives us things that we didn’t even know we needed. We have to trust that God knows us, He created us and He knows what’s best for us.
In my season of waiting here’s what I learned — and what I want you to know too:
1. God’s Timing Is Always Best
Waiting isn’t punishment.
It’s preparation.
Every moment you spend growing in Christ, healing your heart, and learning to trust Him — He’s building the foundation for a love story that can actually stand the storms.
You’re not falling behind.
You’re being fortified.
2. True Love Will Never Ask You to Betray Who You Are in Christ.
The right person will not ask you to compromise your convictions.
They will celebrate them. They will honor them.
They will not diminish your calling.
They will champion it.
God’s design for love was always meant to strengthen you, not strangle you.
3. You Are Worth The Wait — Because God’s Love Story Is Worth the Wait.
You don’t have to force, chase, manipulate, or beg for the love God has for you.
What He has for you will find you at the appointed time.
It will be a love that calls out your best.
A love that makes you braver.
A love that looks like Jesus — full of truth, full of grace.
Friend, don’t settle. Not now. Not ever.
Not when you’ve come this far.
Not when the God who created the stars also handcrafted your heart with a plan and a purpose.
Keep trusting. Keep hoping. Keep guarding your heart — not with fear, but with faith.
God is still writing beautiful love stories.
Yours is one of them.
With faith in God for your love story,
Emmanuela Rodenberg
Author of How to Attract a Godly Husband
Minister of the Gospel
Certified Christian Marriage Coach
Christian Dating & Relationship Coach
Founder & CEO, Wives in Training International
P.S. Hit reply and tell me — what’s one thing you're praying for in your future marriage? I’d love to pray with you! 🙏
💌 Got a Question for Emmanuela?
Have a question about love, dating, or marriage that’s been on your heart?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to walk through it alone either. That’s what Dear Emmanuela is here for: to offer wisdom, truth, and grace for your real-life relationship questions.
Ask anonymously or leave your name—it’s completely up to you. Your question may be featured (anonymously) in a future blog post to help other women who may be going through the same thing.
Fill out the form below or email me directly at E@DearEmmanuela.com
Welcome to Dear Emmanuela: Christian Wisdom & Grace for Your Journey to Lasting Love
Welcome to Dear Emmanuela
Where wisdom meets grace for your journey to lasting love.
Just like a stylist knows how to put together the perfect outfit, I’ve been gifted by God to pair—and repair—marriages. This is the wisdom and grace the Lord has entrusted to me. I understand relationships.
I can step into your situation, look from the outside in, and discern exactly where things are out of alignment. Just like an interior designer walks into a space and instinctively knows how to bring everything into harmony—how to mix, match, and place things with purpose—I have that same God-given ability when it comes to relationships.
Whether you're already married or still praying for the right one, I’m here to help.
I have a passion for coaching single women. I help women prepare, date with purpose, and navigate relationships with wisdom and clarity—so they can confidently choose the right partner for the life they’re called to build. It’s about more than just finding love. It’s about choosing the right kind of love—the kind that aligns with your faith, your values, and your future.
I help women design the relationship they desire—from the foundation of dating all the way to the covenant of marriage. I show them how to love wisely, communicate clearly, and walk confidently in God’s timing and plan.
Dear Emmanuela is not just a blog—it’s a safe place for your questions, your heart, your healing, and your growth.
I’m a Certified Christian Marriage Coach who is deeply committed to helping women build godly relationships from the inside out.
So whether you're single and preparing, engaged and planning, or married and pressing through—this is for you.
Write to me. Ask the hard questions. Share your story. I’m here to walk with you.
With love and truth,
Emmanuela Rodenberg
Author of How to Attract a Godly Husband
Minister of the Gospel
Certified Christian Marriage Coach
Christian Dating & Relationship Coach
Founder & CEO, Wives in Training International
💌 Got a Question for Emmanuela?
Have a question about love, dating, or marriage that’s been on your heart?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to walk through it alone either. That’s what Dear Emmanuela is here for: to offer wisdom, truth, and grace for your real-life relationship questions.
Ask anonymously or leave your name—it’s completely up to you. Your question may be featured (anonymously) in a future blog post to help other women who may be going through the same thing.
Fill out the form below or email me directly at E@DearEmmanuela.com