(This post was written by Chuck Carringer, Pastor of Family Ministries)

The second most important decision (the first, of course, is to accept Jesus as Lord & Savior) our children will make is who they will marry. I began talking to my children about their future spouses when they were 7-9 years old. More significantly, I began praying for my children’s future spouses out loud with my kids. This has been a powerful experience. I want my kids to understand the importance of this decision. This is also a great time for me to affirm my wife, Emily, very intentionally to my children. I want them to see and hear the blessing Emily is to me. I remember when Emily and I were engaged and her parents told me they had been praying for me (her future husband) since was a little girl. Powerful! What a blessing. Parents, of all the things we want for our children, a Godly spouse who loves them with all their heart is at the top of the list.

Parents, it’s neat to watch your kids reactions as you begin to pray out loud for their future spouse. Zach, our 16 year old listens but shows little emotion. Maggie, 13, on the other hand smiles joyfully when she hears her Dad ask God to bless and shape her future husband. This sets the stage for my “don’t settle for less” conversation with my kids. Pray with your kids about their future spouse.

Do your kids hear you pray about significant future decisions in their life?