T.D. Jakes lists key questions that people 'shopping' for spouse must ask themselves

A lot of people get swept up by the drama and romance in their relationships that they tend not to use their heads in jumping into marriage, according to megachurch pastor Bishop T.D. Jakes.

During a segment of his new talk show called "The T.D. Jakes Show," the bishop said people need to ask the right questions regarding their partner before tying the knot in order for them to enjoy a successful and God-glorifying marriage.

"Sometimes I think we get so caught up in the romance of it all that we don't understand the practicality of it all," he said. "We're measuring, 'Is he tall enough that I can wear heels? Will he look good in the pictures?' It's crazy!"

Jakes said according to the American Psychological Association, about 40 to 50 percent of married couples in the US end up getting a divorce. At the same time, data gathered from 2013 showed that over nine million Americans have been married three times or more already.

Jakes, who has been happily married for 34 years with five children, then gave some food for thought to people thinking about marriage: "Think about it: You don't get to choose your siblings...you don't get to choose your kids. But when it comes to your companion that you're gonna spend the rest of your life with, you get to shop."

He said when people go shopping for their mate, they have to consider if the person is willing to go through life's ups and downs with them. The important questions they should be asking are: "Can you count on them? Will they be there? Are they loyal? Are they committed? Are they focused? Will they fight for you? That's what you want—somebody who will fight for you."

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