Biola Broadcaster - 1973-03

want to revert to their own inde­ pendence. There can also be the lack of adequate preparation in entering the marriage union. One of the things we are doing at Talbot The­ ological Seminary is trying to pre­ pare these men and women who will be entering some phase of Christian service and ministry to conduct pre-marital counselling sessions and seminars wherever the Lord calls them. It would be won­ derful if each young couple could have five or six full sessions of pre­ marital counselling before their wedding day. This could save un­ told days and even years of agony and heartbreak. Too many today have really a misunderstanding of what true love actually is. Frequently we find those who marry to meet some neurotic need. As an example, one individual is looking for another to lean on. It might be the woman who wants more a father than a husband, while a man may crave a father- daughter relationship. The individ­ uals may be unaware of the "hang­ ups" causing the problems which ultimately end in divorce. Indifference seems to be one of the unhappinesses that surround so many. There is a lack of con­ cern and care for others. You may be sure that selfishness is at the top of the list of difficulties. Too many want their own way and are upset when they cannot get it. They are unwilling to change or to bend to the needs of the other. Many barriers are thrown up so that over the years they may feel that divorce is the only way out. It is sad to see these things occurring in so-called Christian homes. We need not be surprised when

we consider the tremendously sound and good psychological ad­ vice that one can readily find in the Word of Cod. The Apostle Paul particularly spoke on these vital points. As an example, he pointed out that a married couple should not defraud one another sexually. He showed how this could create real problems. As husbands and wives we have real responsibilities toward one another, even in meet­ ing basic physical needs. A failure in this realm could cause one part­ ner to be susceptible to tempta­ tions which might not otherwise occur. It is not infrequent that such will take place. There is a danger even in becoming so involved in the work of the church that the physical needs of the mate fall by the wayside and are neglected. This is why Scripture gives us this very definite warning. Another cause that is mentioned is the fact of being unequally yoked together with unbelievers. Both in a marriage partnership should have an equal commitment to the Lord. We cannot underscore the importance of these points too greatly, nor does the Bible gloss over in any sense our sacred re­ sponsibilities. One of the most beautiful things about a Christian marriage is the commitment to one another, as well as to Christ. It is to be a loyalty that continues down through the years. So many passages remind men particularly to be kind, considerate, and loyal to their wives. There is still a great value in the Christian vows that are taken, even though the world may be rejecting them. Another cause that results in a couple drifting apart is the fact that their marriage was only built

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