Picking A Mate

Our associations with others can have a great impact on our spiritual
well-being (1 Corinthians 15:33). We must be careful, that as we seek to
influence the world to follow Christ, we are not influenced by the world.

In his book, "Family Life: A Biblical Perspective", L.A. Stauffer makes
the following suggestions when thinking about picking a mate. These
suggestions would work as well when thinking about picking our friends.

1. Pick a mate who Respects God's Word.
2. Pick a mate who has Spiritual Goals and Values.
3. Pick a mate who can Adjust and Compromise.
4. Pick a mate who willingly Corrects Major Flaws (their own!).
5. Pick a mate who shows signs of Maturity.
6. Pick a mate who can and will Communicate.
7. Pick a mate who can offer more than Physical Attractions.
8. Pick a mate who knows the difference between Sex and Love.
9. Pick a mate who is a Good Friend.
10. Pick a mate who views Marriage as Permanent.

Some young folks make the mistake of putting a lot of emphasis on number 7,
only to find out later that good looks cannot make up for cold hearts.

Are you looking for someone who will help you in your relationship with
God? Are you looking for someone who is a good friend and who will respect
you and not pressure you to do something just because they want to do it? A
sad fact of life is found in the business world that is just as true in
selecting a mate: what you see is what you get! If someone is selfish and
immature and not concerned with God, marriage will not change that, but only
make it more apparent.

Marriage can be beautiful, enriching and bring great happiness, but only when
it is done God's way. Selecting a mate is important. Think about it!  [JW]