Guys, I just can't express to you how serious marriage is and your choice of the right mate is critical to your happiness. I want you to succeed in marriage and it's a wonderful feeling spending the rest of you life with someone you love, get along with, and share common goals and interests with.

This week I want to alert you to some warning signals to look for that may potentially lead to a divorce, if you're planning on getting married:

1. How do her parents treat each other? Do they disrespect each other and are they always arguing and showing no love for each other? Our personalities are influenced by our parents. The way her parents treat each other can be an indicator of how she will treat you when you're married. If it's negative, watch out!

2. Find out about her work history. If she has drifted from one job to another, this could indicate she has a problem getting along with others. And if she can't get along with others she might not be able to get along with your friends and relatives, which can lead to marital friction.

3. If you don't drink and are turned off by people who drink, don't marry a woman who drinks a lot. This can cause major problems.

4. Does she have financial problems? Does she mismanage her money, in debt, overspends and shops all the time with no thought whatsoever if she can afford it? When you get married, things will be no different. She will most likely be the same way financially. If you are frugal and good with money, then money is going to be a major source of conflict in your marriage.

5. Do her parents object to you getting married? If they do, then cool it for awhile. Put off the wedding until they have your blessings.

6. I'm not trying to preach religion to you, but it's a known fact that the family that prays together stays together. Sharing your religious beliefs is a very strong foundation for a successful marriage. So, if you want a Christian home, you should not marry a nonbeliever. Also, keep in mind that marriages with different faiths can cause problems.