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SIs a marriage certificate just a piece of paper?
Some couples do not bother to marry; they say a marriage certificate is just a piece of paper. Certainly, the paper records the event, but it should memorialize a solemn agreement. It is worthless if there is no intent to remain faithful to one’s partner. Sadly, many couples do not intend to be faithful. Joshua knew the danger of shallow promises. So he insisted that his people make a firm commitment and memorialize it with a visible monument. He was about to die and wanted to preserve the integrity of his nation. Joshua 24 tells us that he urged the people to make a firm covenant to serve only the LORD. When they replied with a shallow “Yes, we will serve the LORD,” Joshua was not satisfied. He urged them to count the cost of serving only the LORD. He said, “If you abandon the LORD and serve other gods, he will turn against you, even though he has been good to you.” When they insisted that they were serious in their commitment, Joshua then said, “You are a witness to your own decision. You have chosen to serve the LORD. Now prove it. Destroy the idols among you, and turn your hearts to the LORD.” Joshua then made a covenant with the people. He wrote it in God’s Book of Instructions. He then set up a visible huge stone as a memorial. We should find a way to remind ourselves daily of all God’s goodness to us; and certainly ask God to help us keep our marital vows.