Sabbath Sanctity and Marriage Proposals: Proper Timing and Conduct

Receiving suitors or discussing marriage arrangements during the sacred hours of the Sabbath is not appropriate, as these matters are common to the six working days and distract from the spiritual purpose of the day.

The Sanctity of the Sabbath

The Sabbath is a day of holy rest, sanctified by God at creation Genesis 2:1-3. It is a time for meditation, closely examining our spiritual condition, and focusing on the things of God21MR 295.1. The Lord requires that we turn our feet away from doing our own pleasure or speaking our own words on His holy day Isaiah 58:13. Engaging in talk about courtship or marriage contracts at 3pm on the Sabbath would constitute "loose, cheap, common talk" that pollutes the sacred hours21MR 295.1.

Marriage and the Sabbath: Two Sacred Institutions

While it is true that God established both the Sabbath and marriage in Eden, they serve distinct purposes11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 46+1.

• The Sabbath is a golden link designed to unite man to God and keep the Creator in remembrance7MR 111.4+1.

• Marriage is a blessing intended for the mutual help of man and woman, but it must be entered into with a holy purposeAH 99.1+1.

Satan often uses the excitement of courtship and marriage to obliterate the memory of God and lead youth away from ChristLYL 80.3+1. Mixing these secular interests with the Sabbath hours serves the cause of error rather than truth17MR 21.4+1.

Principles for Marriage Engagements

When considering a marriage alliance, every step should be characterized by modesty, sincerity, and an earnest purpose to honor God1MCP 152.3.

• Parental Counsel: Children should not consult only their own desires irrespective of the advice and judgment of their parentsFE 104.1.

• Preparation: Suitability for marriage involves more than just affection; it requires thrift, energy, and the ability to support a familyAH 92.1+1.

• Spiritual Harmony: A Christian is permitted to contract marriage only "in the Lord," meaning they should not form an alliance with those who are irreligious or do not fear GodLYL 26.3+1.

Proper Sabbath Conduct

The Sabbath is a day for acts of mercy, such as caring for the sick, and for religious worshipRH October 2, 1900, par. 10+1. Common business, including making terms for a marriage or seeking one's own pleasure, is a transgression of the fourth commandmentEv 242.2+1. To preserve the blessing of the day, all secular plans and negotiations should be set aside until the Sabbath hours have passed21MR 295.1+1. We must be careful not to allow the "fast age" and human passions to bear down the requirements of God's lawAH 52.2+1.