Aug 6, 2018
Do not be yoked
together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in
common? 2 Cor 6:14
Our closest
relationships will influence beliefs, so choose wisely.
What are you looking for in a mate?
When I have asked other people that question, the common
answers tend to deal with personality, physique, life season similarities,
shared enjoyments, and other physical or emotional characteristics. Sometimes people list their spiritual
expectations, but often that is down the list from appearance or
temperament. Sadly, the traits that tend
to be less important before the marriage often become the roadblocks after the
wedding.
Our best relational matches have little to do with physical,
emotional or social attributes. The best
relationships share common beliefs and values – which are spiritual
attributes. Show me a couple who have
shared beliefs about handling money, raising children, worshipping God,
choosing a lifestyle, and I will show you a couple that has a far better chance
of going the distance. But show me one
that is mismatched in those areas, and I’ll show you one that will be
struggling with doubts and fears.
The Bible teaches us to be yoked with people who have common
values in our religious (spiritual) beliefs.
Because when we don’t match up with another person who shares in our
faith, it will weaken the person of faith and cause compromise in their
values. When that happens, not only does
the marriage head the wrong direction, but the children grow up without a
strong moral foundation, and end up struggling with the same challenges in
their future relationships. The
principle is simple – beliefs tend to travel to the LOWEST common
denominator.
That’s why SO MANY believers are falling for sinful
lifestyles these days! People are
valuing physical attraction and shared enjoyment over spiritual values – and
end up sacrificing their obedience to gain the relationship. In the end, it leaves a trail of brokenness
and pain that either must be repaired, or ends up as lingering disappointment.
CHANGE the ORDER!
START with looking at beliefs and values FIRST --- THEN consider the
physical, emotional and social elements.
Not only will it lead to a happier relationship, but the marriage will
grow more holy. And THAT IS THE REAL
PURPOSE of marriage anyways.
So take 5 minutes right now and start a list – what are the
right spiritual values to look for, or to build up, in your marriage. Whether you are married or not, it will be
the foundation of growing holiness in yourself and your closest relationship.
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