What's your family pecking order

In a recent study by the Edmonton Journal the number of divorces amongst older couples compared to their younger counterparts unfortunately is on the rise.
As a matter of fact between 1993 and 2003, the overall divorce rate fell by more than 11%, led by declines of over 40% among people in their 20’s and close to 30% among people in their 30’s. While divorce among couples in their 40’s rose slightly, the rate jumped 34% for those in the 50-54 age group. Among those aged 55-59, it reached a staggering peak of 47%. For those in their early 60s, the increase was less, but it still stood at 31.7%. Among seniors, it fell further to 9.2%.

I believe the high rate in the 50-59 age range is due to too many couples, in this case baby boomers, focusing their parenting on the needs and desires of the children needs over and above the needs of their spouse. Therefore once the children are out of the home, the husband and wife no longer know each other or have the burring desire towards one another they should have because they spend to much of their focus in the wrong area. Loving your children is obviously of great importance. However, the love between a husband and wife must be consistently nurtured and cared for, even beyond that of the children.

The Scripture say, "Let a man cling unto his wife and none other." It does not follow with, unless you want to make your children your best friend or you feel guilty for "whatever". Your husband or wife should always come first. Let your children know this. Tell them of the "Pecking order" when it comes to your affection. We have had that conversation many times in our home and the kids are grateful for it. They know that mom and dad are a united front and if push ever comes to shove we will choose each other as husband and wife over them. The more we not only tell them this, but show them by our example of love and affection towards one another in front of them, the stronger people and spouses they will be in their own marriage.