friends of the opposite sex

[lucy]

my fiancee and i are seeking advice on friendships of the opposite sex. one of his best friends is a girl who is single, but dating, and whom i've met and like very much. they have occasional get togethers (just the two of them) which have been the 'norm' for them well before i came into the picture.
it's been my opinion (although i am very open to cousel on this) that opposite sex friendships need not end after one friend gets married, but should take on a new dynamic of 'couple' get togethers rather than one to one outings.
i must add that my fiancee is also open to christian counsel regarding this issue as it is something that is new to both of us.
we thank you SO much for any advice you may be able to lend us.

[roppelt]

these should be couples get togethers. it is improper for a married man or women to be seen with another person. it gives rise to Gossip that can and will most likely lead to mistrust by the other spouse.

[Kate]

Dear Lucy

Marriage is an exclusive relationship in that we shouldn't be closer emotionally or physically to another person of the opposite sex, other than our husband or wife. However it should also be possible to trust each other. The danger is, of we spend a lot of time alone with someone who isn't our marriage partner that temptations may arise. It's very easy to say that nothing will happen to us, but many well meaning people have been caught out by this.

Perhaps your husband could think about why he wants to see this girl on his own and what he is looking for in the relationship. You could also talk through how you understand trust. This article (http://www.2-in-2-1.co.uk/healthclub/relbasictopic/trust/) might help you to think this through.

Kate