If a man has two wives, one of them loved and the other disliked, and if both the loved and the disliked have borne him sons, the firstborn being the son of the one who is disliked, then on the day when he wills his possessions to his sons, he is not permitted to treat the son of the loved as the firstborn in preference to the son of the disliked, who is the firstborn. Deuteronomy 21: 15-16 NRSV
Well, happy day after Valentine's! Those of you who are disliked by your spouse, take heart! God says your firstborn son cannot be overlooked in favor of your spouse's beloved other wife.
Oh, your husband only has one wife? And that's you? Well, then you have no worries...unless your spouse takes another wife whom he likes better than you. Just remember if he tries to disinherit your son, remember this very helpful scripture.
Wait, what's that about polygamy laws? Okay, then maybe if you consider this a helpful scripture for you ex-spouse. Is that better? You say you have no son? Perhaps in this day and age your daughter will fill in as the firstborn. No children at all? Hmmm, you do seem to be in a tight spot here.
What did you say? Something about not being loved by your spouse? Well, that is a tough one. We all wish to be well-loved, especially from our spouses and/or significant others. You aren't married at all? And no significant other? Perhaps tomorrow's devotional will be better suited for you - its about being a treasured people.
The best news is that, despite the lack of chocolate, flowers, spousal affection (or spousal remembrance of yesterday), a firstborn son or even a significant other, God loves you. And not just on Valentine's.
God, help us to remember your saving love for each one of us. You have given the gift that is priceless: Christ Jesus. In his name we pray. Amen.
Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims
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