Introductory Thoughts
No believer should knowingly marry an unbeliever (2 Corinthians 6:14). Additionally, the unmarried should look for other strengths and weaknesses in a prospective spouse before agreeing to marriage. Oftentimes, these strengths and weaknesses can be seen by interaction with the other’s parents. Isaac lied about Rebekah (Genesis 26:6-7) just as his father Abraham lied about Sarah (Genesis 12:10-13; Genesis 20:1-2). Solomon’s weakness for women (1 Kings 11:1) was first witnessed in his father David (2 Samuel 11:1-4). Rachel learned deception (Genesis 31:32-35) by watching her father act deceptively (Genesis 29:25). A careful observation of parents can reveal prospective problems in a future spouse.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, loved the Lord (2 Chronicles 17:3-4) but helped the wicked king of Israel (2 Chronicles 19:1-3). This association caused his son Jehoram to pick up evil ways and he married the wicked kings daughter (2 Chronicles 21:5-6). Jehorams son Ahaziah also did wrong (2 Chronicles 22:1-4).
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(For everyone): How do most young people learn how to handle conflicts within the home? How do young men learn the right or wrong way to treat a lady? How would a young lady learn to react to her future husband?
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How could you interact with a persons family without making it seem as though you are scrutinizing them?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God for wisdom when making decisions that will impact your entire future.
- Ask the Lord to give you a scriptural foundation for courting and the willpower to succeed.
Song
HE LEADETH ME
