Family after Marriage

 What does God say about family after marriage?

There are a few verses that talk about family, parents, and marriage in relation to one another. The first comes from Genesis 2:24 (this is in reference to the first marriage, Adam and Eve). He also makes reference in Matthew 19: 4-6. Ephesians 5:22-33 talks about the roles in marriage. 

There are other scriptures in the Bible that talk about marriage and family. But these are a few worth highlighting. 

When a man and woman decide to marry one another, they are making a commitment to each other, but more importantly to God. They are choosing to depart from their parents, and form a new family. This is a desire of God. He wants us to find a person who shares our values, beliefs, and love for God. 

Is God telling us to never speak to our parents again? No
Is God telling us that we can have no relationship with our parents? No

Is God telling us that we now depend on our spouse? Yes
Is God telling us that the relationship with our spouse is sacred and should be kept safe? Yes

A child is called to leave their parents and form a family with their spouse. To build a relationship that grows with each other, but also in the direction of God. The bible states that a parents desire for their child should be to marry a person who loves God, a person with a relationship with God, a Christian. That is the standard. It does not say that a parent should be sure their child marries a person for money, convenience, lust, status, etc. It does not say that a child is to marry a person that thinks/interprets just like their parents. 

This is a hard topic for many people. Parents always want great things for their children, that is natural. But we have to look at the biblical aspect of what God desires for us. (He is our Father too) 
How often have you heard something like "She will never have to worry about money with him" "He will have the most beautiful children with her" "He thinks just like me so he will lead her the way I have".
These are all worldly thoughts, they are not the desires of God.

Does it mean that money, security, geographical nearness, etc are bad? No. But these are not the top priorities in a marriage. These things are never spoken of in reference to marriage in the Bible. 

A father is called to say, "I want my child to marry a person who loves God first and foremost." Loving God will automatically make that person love your child more. Loving God will provide a fruitful marriage, a marriage that is pleasing to God. 

A parent who thinks first of worldly pleasures for their child, is not desiring the best life possible for them. What a disgrace that would be. 

I think this is a hard topic. It is hard for the parent and the child. Leaving all you have known, letting go of your child; these are not easy tasks. But seeking God's guidance will ease the struggle. 

Put your marriage first. Protect your marriage with God's word. Remember that Satan is always prowling, and looking for ways to turn you away. Satan will attack your marriage in some form. Have a Godly spouse and Godly marriage to protect yourselves. 

Side Note: 1 Peter 3 is a great read on what a marriage should look like. I would advise everyone to read and study it.