Evans Francis set to change global narrative for marriages
Marriage divorce rates are increasing in recent decades as many families are witnessing changes in many countries.
No one goes into a marriage expecting a divorce. Yet, it comes as a difficult decision and it is difficult to come to terms with such a life-changing decision.
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The 2021 Population and Housing Census (PHC) by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), shows that 553,065 persons in Ghana have had their marriages dissolved while 405,090 have separated.
Divorce does not affect the couple alone but the children and the family at large.
Couples after separation experience increased unhappiness, loneliness and distancing from close people, lower productivity and focus, anxiety or depression, lowered self-esteem, substance abuse, feelings of anger, frustration and/or helplessness, increased stress-related health problems among others.
Some children whose parents are divorced mostly experience poor performance in academics, loss of interest in social activity, difficulty adapting to change, emotionally sensitive, anger, introduction of destructive behavior, increase in health problems just to name a few.
In his quest to encourage and support healthy marriages, by helping to reduce divorce incidents in the world, Indian-born relationship coach and evangelist, Evans Francis recently launched an Online course dubbed “Courtship to Marriage.”
It is aimed at helping the youth learn about the important skills and knowledge they need to build strong and a lasting relationship.
Evangelist Francis has stated that he has a unique set of marriage relationship solutions, adding that his advices are generally making positive impact on marriages of couples globally.
Possessing these vast skills and knowledge, Evangelist Francis stated that he is ever ready to help people, particularly youngsters globally who have been facing challenges in their marriage or relationships as well as those who are ready to enter into a relationship.
The Online course
In a telephone interview with Graphic Online, Evangelist Francis said the course is aimed at supporting young people to learn the important skills and knowledge they need in their marriage journey.
He said the course is designed for singles who are serious about building a lasting and happy home.
The seven-hour course is accessible on https://www.courtshiptomarriage.com .
The course covers a wide range of important topics including biblical courtship, myths about finding a partner, a believer marrying an unbeliever, what to look out for in a wife or husband, red flags in courtship, signs of a not-so-good relationship, in-laws, one-on-one counselling with Evans, and more.
"Courtship to Marriage”, provides young people with the knowledge and skills they need to approach dating with intentionality and build strong, lasting relationships.
In today's fast-paced world, it can be difficult for young people to navigate the complexities of dating and relationships, and many may enter into marriage without a clear understanding of the skills and knowledge they need to make their relationship work. My course aims to address this issue by providing valuable education and support that can help young people overcome the challenges of modern relationships and set themselves up for a successful marriage”, he stressed.
Evangelist Francis was also of the view that the only solutions needed to bring change in the lives of people all around the world, both in courtship and marriage are right information and knowledge
“Through video lessons, interactive exercises, and a private community forum, participants in the course can learn about topics such as building healthy boundaries, navigating communication, and understanding the differences between men and women. They can also connect with other students and receive support from me directly. By providing this comprehensive education and support, the course aims to empower young people with the tools they need to approach dating with intentionality and build strong, lasting relationships that are rooted in biblical principles.
Proper guidance and support is key
Evangelist Francis who is also a serial author, lyricist, composer and evangelist with 16 years of ministerial experience stressed the need to increase the chances of a successful and fulfilling relationship through proper guidance and support.
Effective implementation of these measures, according to him, would guarantees the success of a marriage of two couples.
“I look forward to seeing every youngster learn the important skills and knowledge they need to build strong, lasting relationships and approach dating with intentionality.
“I am also excited to see the positive impact my course will have on relationships and marriages. I need the world to understand that God is very interested in every marriage.
Some causes of divorce
The Man of God mentioned lack of communication, problems with trust or infidelity, financial stress, and differences in priorities or values as some common factors that may contribute to marriage breakdown.
Additionally, he stressed that financial issues could be a significant source of conflict in many relationships, including marriages.
“Money is often a source of stress and disagreement, particularly when one partner is more financially responsible or when there are differing priorities or values related to financial management”, he explained.
In reality, he maintained that financial challenges can further make it more difficult for couples to effectively communicate and work through other issues.
“According to the Bible, marriage is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman, designed to be a lifelong commitment of love and mutual respect (Ephesians 5:22-33). However, in today's world, we see a high rate of divorce cases, indicating a lack of understanding and commitment to these biblical principles.
“One major cause of the high divorce rate may be a lack of understanding of the biblical model for marriage. In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus says, "Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, 'Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh'? So, they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate."
This passage teaches us that God intended for marriage to be a union of two people, joined together as one flesh, and that it is not to be taken lightly or ended easily. When individuals enter into marriage without a clear understanding of this biblical model, they may be more prone to misunderstandings, conflicts, and ultimately, divorce”.
He further explained that “Another cause of the high divorce rate may be a lack of communication and conflict resolution skills. In Proverbs 15:1, it is written that "a gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." When couples are unable to effectively communicate and resolve conflicts, they may allow resentment and bitterness to build up, leading to the breakdown of their relationship.
He also mentioned that factors such as a lack of emotional intimacy or support also contribute globally to the breakdown of relationships.
“External factors such as infidelity, financial stress, and cultural or family expectations can also contribute to the high divorce rate”
He said “it is important for individuals to be aware of these potential challenges and to seek guidance and support in overcoming them in order to build and maintain a healthy, fulfilling marriage”.
How can divorces be reduced?
Evangelist Francis also offered several advises on how to ensure the peace and unity while marriage.
According to Evangelist Francis one important way to reduce divorces globally is for individuals to enter into marriage with a clear understanding of the biblical principles of marriage and a commitment to living these principles out in their relationships.
“This includes understanding that marriage is a covenant between a man and a woman, designed to be a lifelong commitment of love and mutual respect (Ephesians 5:22-33). It also includes practicing forgiveness, communication, and conflict resolution skills, as well as cultivating qualities such as patience, kindness, and self-control (The fruit of the spirit LOVE) (Galatians 5:22-23)” he stated.
He also advised couples to prioritize their relationship and make time to nurture and strengthen their bond.
“This includes regularly spending quality time together, communicating openly and honestly, and participating in activities that bring joy and fulfillment to both partners.
“It is also important for couples to seek guidance and support from trusted sources, such as pastors, counselors, or trusted friends and family members, in order to address any challenges or issues that may arise in their relationship” he added.
He said couples must also follow the guidelines giving by God with regards to marriage, “God instituted marriage, and after this he gave us guidelines on how to run it successfully. Divorce can be reduced by the man and woman understanding their roles in the family and fulfilling these roles properly. In the Bible, the husband is described as the head of the household and is responsible for leading and protecting his family (Ephesians 5:23). The wife is described as a helper and is responsible for supporting and assisting her husband in his role as leader (Genesis 2:18). When both partners understand and fulfill their respective roles, it can create a sense of balance and harmony in the family, which can help to strengthen the relationship and reduce the risk of divorce”.
He urged married couples globally to embrace faith in God, respect, love, trust, understanding and knowledge as building blocks for a successful relationship and marriage.
He also, entreated the marriage couples to be proactive in addressing challenges and seeking humanitarian support when needed.
In addition the Man of God said, “However, it is important to note that these roles are not rigid or fixed, and each individual's unique talents and abilities should be taken into account. Both the husband and wife should be open to collaboration and communication in order to find a balance that works for their specific relationship. It is also important to remember that both partners are responsible for submitting to and serving each other, as stated in Ephesians 5:21, "submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." By approaching their roles in this way, couples can work together to create a healthy and harmonious family dynamic that is rooted in biblical principles”.
Mr. Francis shares faith-based messages via his sermons various social media platforms including YouTube channel, Instagram and website, evansfrancis.org.
Evangelist Francis is married to his beautiful wife Neha Evans Francis, who he said saw his shortcomings, flaws and imperfections and still accepted to marriage him.
"She saw my shortcomings, my flaws, the not-so-perfect person I was… Yet accepted me wholeheartedly.
Five years ago, I married Neha – the love of my life, and we’ve been together and very much in love ever since then".
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