Introductory Thoughts
The godly choice of whom to marry likely will never again be as obvious as it was for Adam and Eve. Yet, the wrong choice can and will usually bring disastrous outcomes along with lifelong consequences. Wise counsel to avoid pitfalls related to bad choices is vitally important! Samson’s choice was ultimately of the Lord, but not because it was wise. His parents knew that his decision was fleshly and attempted to redirect him. Esau rebelliously sought a wife that would never meet his parents’ approval (Genesis 28:6-9). Throughout the Old Testament, parents were involved in the process of choosing the right spouse for their children. It may not be a direct command from God, but it remains a wise principle to follow. Parents are not always right, but the Lord is pleased to use them in this decision-making process.
Devotional Thoughts
-
(For children): Ruth chose to live with Naomi because she wanted to serve the true God (Ruth 1:15-16). God led Ruth to work in the right field. Ruth listened to the wise counsel of her mother-in-law (Ruth 2:19-23; Ruth 3:5-6; Proverbs 19:20); this resulted in her becoming the great-grandmother of king David (Ruth 4:17).
-
(For everyone): Who brought Eve to Adam? Who was involved in the selecting of a wife for Isaac (Genesis 24:1-3, 50)? Why is it dangerous to make the decision without counsel and without God?
-
Some have taken this principle and morphed it into some type of spiritual command. What are some scenarios where parents might not be able to be a help? Who could offer you wise counsel in their stead?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to work in the lives of those who are not yet married.
- Ask God to help those who have not made wise choices.
Song
In Times Like These
