“…Believe in the LORD your God, so shall ye be established; believe His prophets, so shall ye prosper.” 2 Chronicles 20:20. EGW talked about
The Wedding Ring
“Some have had a burden in regard to the wearing of a marriage ring, feeling that the wives of our ministers should conform to this custom. All this is unnecessary. Let the ministers’ wives have the golden link which binds their souls to Jesus Christ, a pure and holy character, the true love and meekness and godliness that are the fruit borne upon the Christian tree, and their influence will be secure anywhere. The fact that a disregard of the custom occasions remark is no good reason for adopting it. Americans can make their position understood by plainly stating that the custom is not regarded as obligatory in our country. We need not wear the sign, for we are not untrue to our marriage vow, and the wearing of the ring would be no evidence that we were true. I feel deeply over this leavening process which seems to be going on among us, in the conformity to custom and fashion. Not one penny should be spent for a circlet of gold to testify that we are married. In countries where the custom is imperative, we have no burden to condemn those who have their marriage ring; let them wear it if they can do so conscientiously; but let not our missionaries feel that the wearing of the ring will increase their influence one jot or tittle. If they are Christians, it will be manifest in their Christlikeness of character, in their words, in their works, in the home, in association with others; it will be evinced by their patience and long-suffering and kindliness. They will manifest the spirit of the Master, they will possess His beauty of character, His loveliness of disposition, His sympathetic heart.” TM 180.2
Ellen G. White (EGW) emphasizes several key points in her statement regarding the wearing of wedding rings:
- Unnecessary Custom: EGW argues that the custom of wearing a marriage ring is entirely unnecessary. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of developing a deep spiritual connection with Jesus Christ and nurturing a pure and holy character. These inner qualities, she asserts, are far more valuable than outward symbols.
- True Marriage: EGW insists that the absence of a wedding ring should not be interpreted as a lack of commitment to marriage vows. True faithfulness to one’s spouse is demonstrated through one’s character and actions, not through the wearing of a ring.
- Resistance to Conformity: EGW expresses concern about the growing trend of conforming to societal customs and fashion. She encourages individuals to resist this pressure and focus on cultivating spiritual values and Christlike attributes, such as love, meekness, and godliness.
- Missionary Influence: EGW asserts that wearing a ring should not be viewed as a means to enhance one’s influence, particularly for missionaries. Instead, she believes that the influence of individuals should be evident through their Christian behavior, patience, kindness, and their embodiment of the spirit of Christ.
- Christlikeness: EGW underscores the importance of manifesting the spirit of Christ, possessing His beautiful character traits, and exhibiting a sympathetic heart. These qualities, in her view, should be the primary focus of individuals, transcending the need for material symbols like wedding rings.
In essence, Ellen G. White’s message emphasizes the supremacy of inner character and Christlike attributes over the adoption of external customs and symbols, particularly the wearing of wedding rings. She encourages a profound spiritual connection with Jesus Christ as the true foundation of one’s faith and commitment.
