For Best Results...
Scripture Reading — Psalm 119:105-112
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.
Psalm 119:105
Often we see a note like this on a product label: “For best results, follow instructions of maker.” We soon discover that we have to follow the instructions of the manufacturer carefully.
This is even more evident in God’s gift of marriage. Throughout the Bible God gives us some easy-to-understand guidelines for everyday living, and they often apply to our marriages. For example, God’s Word is like a light for the path he wants us to follow in life.
Some marriages fail because couples ignore God’s Word. God warns about marriage between a Christian and an unbeliever, but some people pay no attention. Husbands and wives are told to respect each other, but some spouses show each other constant disrespect. The Bible calls us to be faithful, but some spouses cheat on each other. Husbands are to love their wives as they love themselves, but some husbands care only about themselves. No wonder almost half of all married couples are headed for the door, even though God has placed a “no exit” sign over the marriage institution.
Perhaps the time has come for you to sit down and ask, “What does God say about our marriage? What can we do to make our marriage more what God intended it to be?” When you do, you’ll be looking in God’s Word and following the instructions of your Maker.
Lord, help all of us to listen to and learn from your Word. Use it to guide us in the pathway you want us to follow, and help us to obey. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
About the author — Arthur J. Schoonveld
Rev. Art Schoonveld is a retired minister in the Christian Reformed Church. Before retiring in 2001, he served churches in California, Illinois, and Michigan. Since his retirement he has worked part-time for the denomination and has served as an interim pastor. Art and his wife, Anita, have four children and nine grandchildren.
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