Three Commandments in a Row
Ray is used to me saying, “I’ll be right back. I’m just going to take a few pictures of . . .” He’s so patient.
After we checked out of the New Harmony Inn on New Year’s Day, he wisely headed to the car and I headed out into the cold to the pond behind the Inn for more pictures. On my way back, I noticed these three Commandments on the circular chapel attached to the hotel lobby.
I thought about their combined message. In the center is God’s command not to commit adultery. I was struck by the fact that adultery is stealing and that adultery kills marriages, families, and childhood innocence and security.
Of course, that isn’t always true. I know two vibrant families in which the father has committed adultery. In both cases, patient wives forgave and they and their husbands rebuilt strong marriages in spite of this terrible sin. Still, I don’t think either couple would recommend this as a way to build a strong marriage.
I’ve said this before, but I just want to say it again. Protect your marriage. Don’t get into compromising–and tempting–situations. Don’t be naive. You love your children so much that you are willing to make the sacrifices necessary to teach them at home. Always remember that you need to make the sacrifices necessary to protect your marriage, too. That is one of the best things you can ever do for your children.
Yesterday I encouraged us all to stand up for what we believe in without compromise. The verse I have chosen for today is “as plain as the nose on your face” and just comes right out there and says something we may be a little shy about saying, but here it is. God is the One Who wanted us to read it!
Marriage is to be held in honor among all,
and the marriage bed is to be undefiled;
for fornicators and adulterers God will judge.
Hebrews 13:4