The Most Important Decision

Who you choose shapes who you become.

When Jacob worked seven years to marry Rachel, the scriptures say something beautiful: “They seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her” (Genesis 29:20). Seven years of labor felt short because his heart was set on something eternal.

That kind of commitment doesn’t happen accidentally. It happens when someone values covenant over convenience.

Marriage Is More Than Romance

Abraham insisted Isaac marry in the covenant (Genesis 24). Isaac instructed Jacob the same way (Genesis 28:1). They understood something powerful: marriage isn’t just about chemistry — it’s about covenant.

Esau chose differently. His marriages outside the covenant “were a grief of mind unto Isaac and to Rebekah” (Genesis 26:35). His choices affected not only his future but his spiritual inheritance.

Who you marry will influence:

• Your faith

• Your habits

• Your priorities

• Your eternal trajectory

Put God First First

President Ezra Taft Benson taught:
“When we put God first, everything falls into its proper place or drops out of our lives.”

If God is first in your life, you won’t have to guess what kind of person to date. You won’t compromise your standards for attention. You won’t trade eternal promises for temporary emotions.

You prepare for a covenant marriage long before you ever meet the person.

Reflection

Even if marriage feels far away, the kind of person you’re becoming right now is shaping your future relationships.

Are you becoming someone who would strengthen another person’s faith?

“Marry the right person in the right place at the right time.” — President Gordon B. Hinckley, “Life’s Obligations,” Ensign, Feb. 1999

Today’s Daily Challenge

Write down three qualities of someone who would help you stay close to Christ. Then ask yourself: Am I developing those same qualities?

Grateful you’re here.
For more devotionals: joshdowns.com/daily-devotionals
For weekly lessons: joshdowns.com/come-follow-me-for-teens