Monday, April 15
One of the greatest changes a person faces is when he or she gets married.
Of course, not everyone gets married. After all, Jesus, our greatest example, never did, nor did many other Bible characters.
Nevertheless, many people do marry, and thus, the Bible is not silent about marriage, which is surely one of the greatest life changers.
The first social arrangement mentioned in the Bible is marriage. For God, marriage is so important that the same words He told Adam and Eve in Eden about marriage appear in three other places in Scripture. “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh” (Genesis 2:24; see also Matthew 19:5, Mark 10:7, Ephesians 5:31). These texts tell us that once a person gets married, the most important relationship in their lives should be between them and their spouse, even more than between them and their parents. Among the reasons marriage between a man and a woman is so important to God is that it typifies the relationship that exists between His Son, Jesus, and the church, His bride (Ephesians 5:32).
In constructing a house, one needs to stop and consider the cost (Luke 14:28-30); how much more so when establishing a home? A house is built with brick and mortar, wood and iron, wires and glass. But a home is built with things that are not necessarily material.
What are some crucial traits that are important for all aspects of life but are especially important for those preparing for marriage? 1 Corinthians 13:4-8; Galatians 5:22, 23.
Preparation for marriage must begin with us personally and individually. At the same time, we need to look carefully at our future spouse to see if he/she would be a good complement for us. Is he/she a hard worker? (Proverbs 24:30-34). Does he/she have a bad temper? (Proverbs 22:24). Do we share common beliefs? (2 Corinthians 6:14, 15). How do my family and friends feel about my future spouse? (Proverbs 1:14). Am I relying on faith or on feelings alone? (Proverbs 3:5, 6). The answers to these questions can mean a future of happiness or a lifetime of sorrow.
Think about some good marriages. What principles do you find there that could be applied to other kinds of interpersonal relationships, as well?
