A recent study by the National Center for Health Statistics finds that couples who live together before marriage are more likely to divorce. The chances for a marriage to endure beyond a decade decrease by 6 percent if the couple cohabited before marriage. It's become common to believe that cohabiting before marriage helps determine compatibility, but experts say that this will in reality detract from a lengthy, successful marriage (Sam Roberts, "Study Finds Cohabiting Doesn't Make a Union Last," NYTimes.com, March 2, 2010).

As our Creator, God knows what is best for us, and His instructions regarding sex—wait until you are married and then have sex with only your spouse—continue to be the optimal choice for those who desire to please God and enjoy a happy, lifelong marriage.