Thoughts On Marriage, part 1

by Scottie Joines

Have you ever thought about what a child learns from watching a love-filled marriage where the Father and the Mother cherish and protect each other and prefer each other? On the other hand have you ever thought about what a child learns from watching their Father and Mother fight, divorce, and proceed to degrade one another? We are told to prefer one another in the Word of God. He tells us pretty simply how to act, and yet it is so hard to do at times and I fail miserably many more times than not.

“In love of the brethren be tenderly affectionate one to another; in honor preferring one another; in diligence not slothful; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing steadfastly in prayer; communicating to the necessities of the saints; given to hospitality. Bless them that persecute you; bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that rejoice; weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Set not your mind on high things, but condescend to things that are lowly. Be not wise in your own conceits. Render to no man evil for evil. Take thought for things honorable in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as in you lieth, be at peace with all men.” Rom 12:10-18

What does all that mean?
1. Be tenderly affectionate toward one another.
2. Prefer each other.
3. Be diligent, zealous, a servant of the Lord, rejoice in hope, be patient.
4. Continue to pray.
5. Extend hospitality and tend the needs of fellow saints.
6. Bless your enemies.
7. Rejoice with happy people, weep with sad people. (Be supportive?)
8. Be like-minded. (Try to agree more than disagree?)
9. Never exalt yourself, but humble yourselves.
10. Don’t be holier than thou, arrogant.
11. Do not retaliate.
12. Think of honorable things and be at peace with everyone.