“In the course of time Cain presented some of the land’s produce as an offering to the Lord. And Abel also presented an offering—some of the firstborn of his flock and their fat portions. The Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but he did not have regard for Cain and his offering. Cain was furious, and he looked despondent.” (Genesis 4:3–5, CSB)
The Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but he did not have regard for Cain and his offering. Raising our children to understand what God loves and what He requires is key to our magnificent marriage. Like John, every parent wants to be able to proclaim, “I have no greater joy than this: to hear that my children are walking in truth.” (3 John 4, CSB)
So, why do so many parents neglect the spiritual growth and nurture of their children? I mean, they make sure they’re signed up for every conceivable activity and experience on the planet. Why not deeply ingrain in them the one relationship that will ensure they get off the planet alive and well?
Cain and Abel suffered from what most children born into a spiritual home today do: Parental neglect. When children have no root structure deep in a relationship with God Almighty through Jesus Christ and are devoid of the indwelling and filling of the Holy Spirit, their lives run amok. Heartache and heartbreak are the natural results of a life lived apart from the supernatural transformation and inspiration of the God who created and loves them.
When our children know and understand that God loves them and only wants the best for them, they flourish in His favor – the smile of His face over their lives. As parents, our marriage flourishes because we are able to invest in one another. We aren’t pulled in ten different directions because of this catastrophe and that rebellion.
Marriage is designed by God to be magnificent. Of course, it will be a lot of work. Living with another person is a recipe for tension. Adding to that mix with four, five, or six children multiplies those difficulties unless you both choose to work with God and lead those lives well. In the management of your home, working together, your marriage will blossom in new dimensions you’ve never imagined!
Magnificent Marriage Mondays are helpful hints, clues, ideas, and solutions for the child of God who is looking for a spouse, in a relationship with someone, or are already married. Each post seeks to bring help, hope, and honesty to your life and make the rest of your life, the best of your life. They are written by Dr. Matthew Lee Smith, Executive Director of Eagles In Leadership, and come from his 38 years, 5 months and 2 days experience with his wife, Melodee, who was promoted to Heaven on November 11, 2017. He is currently seeking God’s will for his new life partner. He welcomes your comments below.
