First Things First
Read Ecclesiastes 12:1. What’s the message there for us?
As youths mature into adulthood, thoughts will arise about having to
provide for basic needs—food, clothing, and shelter. Jesus Himself has
told us how to prioritize our needs when He said, “But seek ye first the
kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be
added unto you” (Matt. 6:33). Of course, for those who are older and
who didn’t make a choice for Jesus when they were young, there is still
time to make the right decisions regarding stewardship.
As we saw in Genesis 28:20–22, Jacob had made some important life
choices, both spiritual and financial. In the vision, the Lord introduced
Himself to Jacob as “ ‘the Lord God of Abraham your father and the
God of Isaac’ ” (Gen. 28:13, NKJV). Then as part of his vow to God,
Jacob said, “ ‘The Lord shall be my God’ ” (Gen. 28:21, NKJV).
Read Genesis 29:9–20. What is important about the timing of this
event in the life of Jacob?
After Jacob made his spiritual and financial commitments to God,
the Lord directed him to Rachel at the well (see Gen. 29:9–20). It
is fitting to make your spiritual decision and your lifework decision
before committing to marriage. Your future spouse should know “what
they are getting into.” Is this person a committed Christian? What type
of work will he or she be involved in? Will this person be a teacher, a
nurse, a lawyer, a laborer, whatever? What kind of life will I be com-
mitting to? Other questions that need answers before the marriage
commitment are: What level of education has been completed? What
amount of debt will come into the marriage? Am I willing to accept this
situation as part of my responsibility?
Read 2 Corinthians 6:14, 15. Why is this principle so important
to consider when looking for a life partner? Though it doesn’t
guarantee a good marriage, why would it help make the chances
of a good marriage greater?
