It is awfully difficult for children to rise above the emotional and spiritual maturity of their father and mother. Impossible? No. Hard? It often is.
So many married men and women feel very much alone spiritually. Many single dads and moms are in church each Sunday, all too aware
Years ago, she married a great guy. Yet, he is not a part of the congregation that his wife and children call “home.” He has many good qualities but the kids grow up without ever seeing their dad deeply connected in the life of the church.
Long before there is an engagement, it is important for a man or woman to think about what the future might be like if this person never changes.
1. What if this person never grows up?
2. What if this person never becomes a part of a congregation? What if this person, “never goes to church”?
3. What if this person never becomes any more financially responsible than she or he is right now?
4. What if the things I had hoped would change never change at all?
5. What if this person remains just as immature as she has been since I met her?
6. Do I really think this person will treat me better once we are married?
7. Do I really think this person will suddenly have different priorities in her/his life once we are married?
So often a man will become infatuated by a woman and begin to rationalize about the future.
In his mind — it will all work out, somehow.
Really?
This can be very risky and dangerous thinking.
If my purpose and mission in life are clear, this will help determine the kind of person I will date or not date. If you are absolutely serious about the Lord Jesus and raising children in the Lord, you will want to partner with someone who will be by your side carrying out that mission.
You might well respond, “Well that sounds like someone who is perfect.” No, there is no perfect person. However, there are people whose daily decisions reflect a commitment to the Lord Jesus.
The time to start thinking and praying about this is when you are very young. Far too much is at stake.