Thinking Marriage: Are You Sure?? Update 11/07
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Marriage is blessed of God (Hebrews 13:4). The wise man, Solomon, expressed this positive:"Whoso findeth a wife, findeth a good thing and obtaineth favor of the Lord"
(Proverbs 18:22).
There are a few values which must be upheld by each person planning marriage.
1)Is it Scriptural? Jesus made some remarks (Matthew 5:32; 19:1-12). Some really have to be 'eunuchs for the Kingdom of Heaven's sake' rather than enter marriage. Paul wrote of faithfulness in marriage,too (Romans 7:1-8).
2) Is this possible partner in marriage actually upholding the values of God? Solomon addressed this question. He notes for ladies (or gentlemen) to never 'make friendship' with angry and furious people much less marry (Proverbs 22:24-25). Violent people often are abusive of others.
3) Is love really the foundation for my marriage? Jesus loved the church, his bride, (Ephesians 5:23-32). He gave his all for her. This should be the depth of love of any man for his wife; a wife should reverence her husband, for sure. Love is described in I Corinthians 13: Love suffers long and is kind, does not seek to be selfish; love thinks no evil; love never fails. Is love your foundation?
4) How much service to the less fortunate than yourselves is your prospective spouse to give? Happiness is tied to our service of those less fortunate (Proverbs 14:21). Is your prospective husband or wife seeking to turn you away from others? Is the idea of love being used to make you only self-centered? The real love does not seek its own (I Corinthians 13). Are you being led to be selfish? Does your potential mate trust you and admire you for your work with others?
5) The wise (prudent) person will not take anything for granted. Rather, the wise person will see danger ahead and seek to protect himself (Proverbs 22:3 and Proverbs 27:12). Dating a person who is exhibiting lack of moral values, disrespect for parents or anger which is out of control will certainly tell you of dangers which lie ahead. Such misbehaving will bring penalties in society someday. Paul advised of other works of the flesh in Galatians 5:19-21. Are you looking ahead as you court this prospective mate for life? What do you see?
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Please consider these thoughts; we will add to this page, Lord willing, to help anyone considering marriage. It ought to be a happy and godly experience.