I have always known that it is important for partners to have common beliefs and ideas. One of these commonalities I feel is in the topic of religion.
I have always heard and believed that couples should share the same religious beliefs and values. However, I have never been a hard core person when it comes to denomination. I have the idea that as long as you believe in God and Jesus Christ then the church that you worship in is just a building. I realize that some denominations have very different beliefs. However, I felt that those beliefs mainly dealt with details of sermons and the Bible. I never realized how much these beliefs can affect your daily activities.
The difference really hit me when I drove by a local church near Christmas time and read the sign out front at the road. The sign stated “Santa is Satan.”
I was shocked. I have always celebrated Christmas with the thoughts of Jesus Christ. However, Santa also visits my house. I then realized that there are many differences in beliefs that two people can have. I cannot imagine my children growing up without Santa and presents.
Some congregations have different beliefs even though they are the same domination. Some churches are very strict in what type of hairstyles and clothing can be worn. Some churches have differences in the types of music that can be used.
Therefore I think that it is not only important that one finds a partner with a common religion and belief in God but also common beliefs in everyday life. The couple should discuss beliefs and values in how children should be raised and disciplined. They should discuss top priorities and basic family values.
The differences are often more predominate when two people come from different areas of the world or even country. Never assume that your partner was raised in the same manner that you were.
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