Blended families are loosely defined as having a biological parent, a stepparent, and children from one or both parents. Estimates suggest that more than 7,000,000 children under the age of 18 live in “blended” homes and the number is growing rapidly. Does the normalizing of this situation present potential problems? Let’s look to the Bible for answers.
God gave us biblical guidelines and examples regarding marriage and remarriage. There is even a blended family in the Bible that graphically demonstrates some of the potential hazards of this arrangement.
King David had numerous wives. His blended family is a textbook example of some of these hazards. There is a higher incidence of both sexual and physical abuse in blended families (2 Samuel 13). Furthermore, there often is jealousy between step and half siblings (1 Kings 1 and 2). Finally, in remarriage, it is difficult for a couple to establish the right priority. Aside from God, one’s spouse must be the most important person in his or her life. It is difficult for single parents to replace their children as the top priority.
Before creating a blended family, prayerfully consider God’s instructions regarding marriage and divorce (1 Corinthians 7:1-16). Most importantly, before entering this God-ordained covenant the man and woman should both know Him through Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 6:14). A family without Christ is like a ship without a rudder. It may keep going forward, but it can’t steer away from the storms.
Some blended families have built solidly on a godly foundation and have been crowned with joy. All I am saying is that all factors need to be carefully examined.
Taken from Adrian Rogers' weekly newspaper column. Used by permission. 2001, The Commercial Appeal.
