On CNN, an article talks about the public’s response to John and Elizabeth Edwards decisions to continue the 2008 Presidential campaign. Though the article gave a lot of quotes none of them in particular seemed to defend their decision. However, another article did clear up some possible misunderstandings: The cancer though uncurable, “The doctors likened the situation to living diabetes, which can be managed but is a lifelong decision.” Though I can’t say anything about their decision, I can say something about newlyweds.
I thought this scripture gave some insight about what God thinks about newlyweds:
“When a man is newly married, he shall not go out with the army or be liable for any other public duty. He shall be free at home one year to be happy with his wife whom he has taken.”
-Deut 24:5
Several observations:
- This verse specfically applies to newlyweds.
- Public duty or the army entails:
- Frequent traveling
- Being away from home and consequently his wife
- Possibility of death or public scrutiny
- It is good to spend a year with his wife
This scripture englightens the trouble in marriage for both military servicemen and celebrities. Both work long hours, spend hours away from home. The servicemen is in danger of death while the celebrity is under public scrutiny. Unfortunately both experience a high rate of failed marriages and divorce. Does this mean spending a year at home in the first year of marriage will prevent problems or a divorce? No. But if you are willing to do so, it does speak of the importance you hold to marriage.
I think God makes clear a principle here. If you are involved in business, music or movie industry, police or military, if possibile you should make arrangements to spend time that year near your wife. Avoid volunteering for extra duty or work. Take a year off of business trips or music tours if possible. God has made it clear- “he shall be free at home one year to be happy with his wife whom he has taken.”
The Domain for Truth 
God has annulled that law in Deuteronomy.
Christians should not attempt to obey that law in any way.
First, where do you see the law being annulled?
Second, the jewel of that wisdom still stand. That law was given to the Jews under a theocratic system. But in no way should we disregard the wisdom of that law.
I still think its a good and Godly principle of a newly wed to be conscious to the fact that they ARE MARRIED.
How much could this reinforced for this in occupations that could be strenuous in the marriage!
I’ve known Marines who were married, deployed multiple tours overseas, come back, and don’t even know their wives, because they are not use to living with her, though they are married for two and even three years. Living the first year together without the risk of deployment or being seperated helps.
Furthermore, I wonder if one would be for a law like this with the principle behind it, if it were introduced by a Secular Humanist?