Scripture Reading: 1 Samuel 3:12–14
Introduction
A. God intended great things for our families.
B. These days a marriage is considered successful if it doesn’t end in divorce, but is this really an accurate barometer?
Discussion
I. What do you do when you find yourself in a hard situation?
A. Draw nearer to God (James 4:1–8).
B. Make friends of God’s children (Romans 12:15; James 5:16).
C. As hard as it may seem, try to look at your situation as an opportunity (Genesis 50:20).
II. What can you do to avoid a hard situation?
A. Listen to the counsel of those who are older (1 Kings 12:1–17; Judges 14:3).
B. When you select a mate, choose someone who loves God (2 Corinthians 6:14–17; 1 Peter 3:4).
C. Don’t base your future plans on fairy tales.
D. Remember that you can find just as much fulfillment in life as a single person (1 Corinthians 7:32–35).
Conclusion
A. If you are experiencing trials today, don’t let them pull you away from the only one who can help you through them.
B. When times are hard, trust in the Lord, and let Him direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5–8).