The supporting cast of the wedding includes the Best Man. To support the couple, especially the groom-to-be, what if there was a devotional for the best man that helped him to be present for the groom, groomsmen, and wedding party?
Why a Devotional for the Best Man?
Even if the best man is not preparing to be married, and even if he is not treating this experience like practice for his wedding, the best man holds a very important position in the groom’s life. The best man will likely have a special relationship with the groom. The groom may call on the best man for advice or confide in him when the groom is facing difficult moments in life or his marriage.
A devotional will help the best man and the groom focus on what matters most. The Bible tells us there is a time for everything (Ezekiel 3:1-11). Although it does not mention specifically if there is a time to love, perhaps that means there is a time to marry. Other scriptures would suggest that this is true. And if this is true, wouldn’t it be a blessing if everyone who is a part of the wedding is encouraged by a source of encouragement or the Word of God?
Listening and Leading
Two areas in which the best man can pray for the groom in his marriage are to listen and lead. These are areas that are so important in marriage. The groom is called to listen to his spouse and to be compassionate to her in life and marriage.
That means giving grace at the right times and being a supporting presence. These are things that will take time and grace to learn. That is why the best man can pray for the groom even during the wedding preparation process so that the groom will begin to develop a heart that is attentive to these things.
These qualities come from Scripture, specifically, the things that God calls men to be in marriage. Compassion, listening, and leading are qualities that God calls all Christians to be in one way or another. But these are also things that God calls the groom to be in the marriage in a special and particular way. In other words, the type of attitude called for in marriage by the groom is a special type of listening and leading.
Encouraging and Earning Trust
Another way the best man can support the groom is to remind him that he should be a source of encouragement in the marriage. This is supported by the fruits of the spirit: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23.
These are the fruits or qualities of the Spirit of God. They are also how we are called and expected to treat one another because they are the best examples of love. The best man can remind the groom that to be a good husband, he should learn what it means to demonstrate these qualities at home. These things are not just to do occasionally but also explain a lifestyle.
Being Truly Present
Another benefit a devotional for the best man can provide is encouraging the groom to be present at home. This does not just mean being present physically. Many husbands must work, and travel is a part of their responsibilities. But the groom or husband should become familiar with another form of being present. This is being present emotionally and spiritually. This means praying for the family, knowing their concerns as best as possible, and encouraging them daily.
Leave a Reply