Advice for the groom

My son, hear the instruction of your father.    — Proverbs 1:8

The custom of a bachelor party before a wedding is often characterized by drunkenness and carousing. The party-hearty attitude seems driven by the belief that the groom will soon be married and have to settle down to a life of domestic boredom.

Not long ago, one of my nephews got married. The best man planned a get-together for Joel, but with a refreshing difference. Those invited were asked to bring some thoughts to share that would help him in this new chapter of life.

When I arrived at the informal breakfast, I found a cheerful spirit of camaraderie. Fathers, uncles, brothers, and friends were animated in lively discussion. The father of the bride and the father of the groom were asked to share their advice on what they had learned in their own Christian marriages. Their thoughts were personal, realistic, and biblical.

The book of Proverbs mirrors this kind of mentoring in facing life’s challenges and rewards. “My son, hear the instruction of your father . . . for [it] will be a graceful ornament on your head” (Prov. 1:8-9).

How God-honoring it would be if more couples began their marriage with an attitude that heeded the wisdom of those who walked the path before them.                                                     — Dennis Fisher

Lord, give us ears to hear advice

From loved ones wise and humble,

So when life’s challenges appear

We will not have to stumble. — Sper

READ: Proverbs 1:1-9

He is truly wise who gains his wisdom from the experience of others.

The Bible in one year:

• Job 8-10

• Acts 8:26-40