Courtship and Marriage
85
This underhand way in which courtships and marriages are carried
on, is the cause of a great amount of misery, the full extent of which is
known only to God. On this rock thousands have made shipwreck of
their souls. Professed Christians, whose lives are marked with integrity,
and who seem sensible upon every other subject, make fearful mistakes
here. They manifest a set, determined will that reason cannot change.
They become so fascinated with human feelings and impulses that they
have no desire to search the Bible and come into close relationship
with God. Satan knows just what elements he has to deal with, and he
displays his infernal wisdom in various devices to entrap souls to their
ruin. He watches every step that is taken, and makes many suggestions,
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and often these suggestions are followed rather than the counsel of
God’s word. This finely woven, dangerous net is skillfully prepared
to entangle the young and unwary. It may often be disguised under a
covering of light; but those who become its victims, pierce themselves
through with many sorrows. As the result, we see wrecks of humanity
everywhere.
When will our youth be wise? How long will this kind of work
go on? Shall children consult only their own desires and inclinations
irrespective of the advice and judgment of their parents? Some seem
never to bestow a thought upon their parents’ wishes or preferences,
nor to regard their matured judgment. Selfishness has closed the door
of their hearts to filial affection. The minds of the young need to be
aroused in regard to this matter. The fifth commandment is the only
commandment to which is annexed a promise, but it is held lightly, and
is even positively ignored by the lover’s claim. Slighting a mother’s
love, dishonoring a father’s care, are sins that stand registered against
many youth.
One of the greatest errors connected with this subject is that the
young and inexperienced must not have their affections disturbed, that
there must be no interference in their love experience. If there ever
was a subject that needed to be viewed from every standpoint, it is this.
The aid of the experience of others, and a calm, careful weighing of
the matter on both sides, is positively essential. It is a subject that is
treated altogether too lightly by the great majority of people. Take God
and your God-fearing parents into your counsel, young friends. Pray
over the matter. Weigh every sentiment, and watch every development
of character in the one with whom you think to link your life destiny.