Apples of Timely Advice
By: Pat Strawbridge
It has been said that timely advice is as lovely as golden apples in a silver basket. (Proverbs 25:11 LB) This time of year apples are seen in the farmers’ markets and grocery stores. As we see the lovely apples, we are reminded of the adage that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. This is good advice in marriage. If apples are associated with the characteristics of marriages, more may be successful. Families may not be cut up in separation and divorce.
Golden apples are considered very valuable and rare in some societies. Marriage is like the golden apple because it is very valuable. Successful marriages-those that last until the death of a spouse-are very rare. When couples take their wedding vows, they should make a commitment to make their marriage permanent. Like an apple pie that may not turn out right the first time, newly married couples should try and try again until they resolve their problems. When cooking or working with apples, a cook can adapt different kinds to different recipes. In marriage, couples need to adapt to changing jobs, health status or different family situations. They need to discuss the situations and talk about the affects on the family unit. As they talk to one another, they should also communicate with God. Just as there are different varieties of apples, so are there different ways to show love. One spouse may like hugs and kisses while another may want words or understanding. Observing how the marriage partner expresses emotions will help the other partner to meet intimate needs. A cook must work to make an apple pie; so it is in marriage. Couples must work to make their marriages successful. Marriage partners need attention every day. A happy and successful marriage is more desirable than even a golden apple in a silver basket.
Pat Strawbridge is a graduate of the University of Mississippi and the Mississippi University for Women and has done postgraduate work at University of Tennessee, Knoxville in Home Economics with emphasis in family relations. She and her husband, Drennon, live in Cleveland, TN near their son, Mike and his wife, Janice, and two grandsons Scott and Will. White Bible Ceremonies for Couples: Advice for Successful Marriage is available in manual form with instructions or CD with photos, instructions and suggestions http://www.whitebibleceremony.com
Patricia C. Strawbridge is a former home economics teacher. She also writes: Meal with a Message: http://www.mealswithamessage.com/ She compiled and edited Callaway Cookin’: http://www.callawaycookbook