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by Ann - Margret Hovsepian"A braid appears to be only two strands of hair. But it's impossible to create a braid with only two strands. If the two could be put together at all, they would quickly unravel. Herein lies the mystery: What looks like two strands requires a third. The third strand, though not immediately evident, keeps the braid tightly woven. God's presence, like the third strand in a braid, holds husband and wife together."
-Cathern Paxon
"A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."
-Ecclesiastes 4:12
When you have a church full of young adults, you can't avoid the subject of relationships, marriage, dating and sex. Some of these issues have come up at our Bible studies.
Can a Christian date or marry a non-Christian? Can a Christian live with someone before getting married? Can Christians have sex outside of marriage? Do these things really affect one's spiritual life? Well, if you are interested in maintaining a healthy and growing relationship with Christ, I believe your relationships with others need to be carefully examined... especially when they involve long-term and physical commitments.
If you are not willing to place Christ at the center of your relationship with someone else, how will He help you through the hard times and strengthen your love for each other? Can you really keep Him out of such an important area of your life without eventually pushing Him out of the other areas?
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? ... What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?" (II Corinthians 6:14-15)
"Love is patient." (I Corinthians 13:8). I believe this means more than just being understanding of one another's weaknesses. This verse tells me that true love is willing to put aside the physical part of a relationship until the right time.
If you're not sure about your relationship or marriage, focus on Christ. After all, God is Love - who could possibly offer better advice on the subject?
When Christ becomes the third strand in your "braid," He will guide you to make healthy and holy choices. Trust Him. Your future depends on the decisions you make now. Please, take the time to talk to God about it.
Take a look at Ann's website at www.annhovsepian.com
