I was invited to talk to young singles at a conference about how they can avoid divorce in their future. I was extremely skeptical about sharing my story for a couple of reasons – one was because I am extremely private and was unsure whether I wanted to put all my business out there and two - divorce is not a thing of pride. However, I believed in my heart that by telling people what happened to me, I could help them avoid the same fate. I understand that when you come out of any tough trial, you ought to reach out and help others. It was my first real speaking engagement. I had spoken to small groups before but nothing like 30 or so people staring back at me. As I talked about the self-inflicted wounds that they might want to look out for before they get married to reduce the risk of divorce in their marriage relationships, I became strangely aware that their expectations were not exactly met.
Young people want to hear about dating and romance. They want to be told that relationships lead to engagement then to happily ever after unions but we all know that life does not quite work out that way. To be successful at marriage, preparation is crucial. Singles looking to get married must clean house and lose any emotional baggage they are carrying. Many women walk in to marriage with six to seven layers of men on them, on the other hand, young men are looking for a mother rather than a wife. Disobedience, arrogance, denial and rebellion must be brought under total subjection. Fellowship with God must be of utmost priority in the life of every believer – even when you are young, single and looking for a life partner.
I don’t think I connected with them. What I was saying seemed too “adult” for them to comprehend. I pray that they understand it before they step into marriage. I wish I had done the same.
No comments:
Post a Comment