Page 136 - First Steps 2023

strike you as a supremely good idea, but consider that decision in light of
this biblical mandate:

“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteous-
ness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light
have with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14)

Is it God’s will that you pursue the relationship with an eye toward
marriage if the other person isn’t a believer? Probably not…though it may
be motivation for you to re-read the evangelism session and ask God to
use you or others to bring your intended to faith!
The Bible isn’t specific about the details of a believer’s life, but there
are often principles that can be applied. Do some digging yourself and
ask believers whose maturity you respect to do the same on your behalf.

• Seek the wisdom of others
Advice is great—if it’s from the right people. You can always find
people who’ll just agree with whatever you think, but there’s zero value in
that when discerning God’s will.
Here are some people worth looping in to get the benefit of their
wisdom:

“Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, be-
cause they keep watch over you as those who must give an account.
Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would
be of no benefit to you (Hebrews 13:17).

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right” (Ephesians
6:1).

“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21).

Remember: You’re responsible for discerning God’s will for your life.

God can use others to confirm and share wisdom, but it’s you who makes
the call.

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