By Chucks Nwonye
Port Harcourt — Salvation Ministries founder, Bishop David Ibiyeomie has delivered a heartfelt public confession about his marriage, saying his decision to marry his wife was guided by divine direction rather than physical attraction.
Speaking in a recent address that has since gone viral, the cleric opened up about the early days of his relationship and why he believes his marriage has been central to his ministry’s success. His remarks have sparked widespread discussion online, with many viewers praising his emphasis on character over outward appearance.
“If I were to marry by physical appearance, I wouldn’t marry Mama. Let me open up to you. It’s not her I would have married. Other people were dancing around me in Bible school. But sometimes God will not show you the end from the beginning. He allows you to go in. Now I know why God said, ‘Marry her.'”
Bishop Ibiyeomie explained that looking back, he now understands the reason behind what he describes as God’s instruction. He contrasted human judgment with divine perspective, noting that what appears attractive to people may not align with God’s purpose for a person’s life.
“If any other person had married me, I wouldn’t have succeeded to this level. So there’s something God knows. The way we look is not how God looks. Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart.
I can now see better why God said marry this woman. There wouldn’t have been any other woman better than her. No matter how flashy another person may have looked at that time, I know the things that made her stand by me as a wife, things another woman may not have been able to endure.”
The bishop went on to highlight the endurance and support his wife, Pastor Mrs. Peace Ibiyeomie, demonstrated throughout their years together. He said her loyalty during difficult seasons proved to him that she was the right partner for his calling. According to him, physical appeal fades, but steadfastness in marriage reveals true value.
“She’s the best God gave to me. After God, she’s the best.”
In a further declaration of appreciation, Bishop Ibiyeomie did not hold back in expressing how deeply his wife loves him compared to anyone else in his life. His words carried both emotion and conviction as he addressed the congregation.
“After who? After God. I can say it any day. Nobody loves me after God. Not relations, not anybody. Nobody on this earth, after God, loves me as my wife loves me. Nobody. I’m saying it with every audacity. No mortal on earth loves me as my wife. You’ll know who loves you on the day of your trial.”
Marriage and relationships have been recurring themes in Bishop Ibiyeomie’s teachings. Known for his direct preaching style, he often counsels singles and couples on choosing partners based on godly principles rather than fleeting attractions. His latest confession aligns with messages he has shared over the years about the importance of spiritual alignment in marriage.
The video clip of his statement quickly circulated across social media platforms, drawing thousands of reactions. While some commenters related to his experience of choosing a life partner for reasons beyond looks, others debated the role physical attraction should play in marriage decisions. Relationship counselors have long advised that while attraction matters, shared values, commitment, and character are critical for long-term stability.
Bishop Ibiyeomie and Pastor Mrs. Peace Ibiyeomie have been married for several decades and are parents to three children. Over the years, Mrs. Ibiyeomie has been actively involved in the humanitarian and women’s ministry arms of Salvation Ministries, which is headquartered in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The church has grown to become one of Nigeria’s prominent Pentecostal ministries with branches across the country and abroad.
For Bishop Ibiyeomie, the confession appears to be more than just a personal testimony. It serves as a public acknowledgment of the role his wife has played behind the scenes. By stating “I wouldn’t have succeeded to this level” without her, he positioned her support as integral to his journey from Bible school student to leading one of Nigeria’s largest churches.
Bishop Ibiyeomie’s remark: “You’ll know who loves you on the day of your trial,” has resonated with many who see it as a reminder that challenges reveal the true strength of relationships. In a culture where celebrity marriages often face scrutiny, his tribute stands out for its focus on loyalty and divine guidance.
