Think of the area of dating and seeking a spouse. Principle: “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” - Proverbs 22:7 Preference: Physical appearance and stature, personality, height, weight or financial status. Principally, the bible informs us in Proverbs 22:7 that we are not to form covenant with anyone who is an unbeliever. This does not infer that we should not be friends with unbelievers but within the context of a romantic or even business relationship where relational equity is at stake this is a no-no. The principle clearly warns that this will not be a prosperous relationship. Physical appearance, personality, height, weight or financial status, though important based on individual preference, should never be the driver of decision making. We can be confident in this as the Lord’s thoughts are higher than ours. Principles speak to the long term while preferences are temporal. Physical appearance, financial status, weight are all temporary and subject to change. Abiding by principles uncomplicates life, making the decision making process easier by placing all options through a filtering lens. If it meets the principle test, great, proceed. If not, rest assured that that particular option is not eternally sustainable and may cause more harm long term. When faced with a decision, locate the biblical principle your decision calls for and ask yourself “Am I making this decision based on a principle or a preference?” Principles also don't need to be manipulated. Take and process them for what they are. An act of maturity is displayed when a principle is put into action versus a preference. Note to Self: Principles free us from preferences. Do not self-destruct.
