Equally Yoked

[Solars Toy]

Equally yoked is a term used in the Christian world.  If you are a Christian then you have most likely heard it used or thrown around.   From the Christian perspective it is important that you and your spouse (or future spouse) share the same or similar beliefs. 

The Yoke
What is a yoke?  A yoke is an implement that is used to harness animals together to pull a load or a plow.  The yoke is a familiar and useful tool to agrarian (farming) societies.  This device is used to join a pair of animals, like oxen, to work together, simultaneously.   The yoke is often used in the Bible to express the symbolism of having two that are similar in capacity so that they can both work together.




It seems like this is outdated and how could you be sure if you are not equally yoked.  The first clue would be if they actually state they don't believe in God or that they are an atheist.  So what do you do?  Walk away?  Dig a little deeper?  Believe that you have enough faith for both of you?  My personal favorite – "I can change them – make them a believer."  The latter two options is where most will go because they are in love.   Unfortunately they likely won't change their minds nor will they appreciate your subtle hints and attempts to make them a believer.  The choice to come to Christ must be theirs.

Although I believe being equally yoked in your beliefs is extremely important it is even more critical to know what your beliefs are.  Do you need/want to attend church every Sunday or only on major holidays?  Do you want someone to pray with you? (At mealtime or daily)  What about children?  So many things to consider.

What about being equally yoked in life?  They say opposites attract but what if those differences are no longer cute, quaint, or adorable?   Mountain man asked me when we were dating to consider the most annoying thing about him and whether I could live with that the rest of my life.  Being an older couple it was a little easier for us.  We were no longer young enough to try and hide who we truly were.  (This is something younger couples may do as they want to impress their new love.)  We were to old and set in our ways to play that game.  So Mountain man and I had many long discussions about what we treasured most in life.  We talked faith, family, and lifestyle.  We came to a understanding of how each of us viewed these details and a recognition of our differences along with acceptance of these differences. 

http://www.rockyonthemountain.com/equally-yoked/