SEVEN WAYS TO HELP AN UNBELIEVING SPOUSE
Introduction
Oftentimes in marriage, couples may find themselves struggling through a myriad of challenges and joys. Some persons find themselves in a marriage they never thought they could be due to certain reasons and a wide range of circumstances. I’ve had several encounters with couples whose paths of faith are divergent. And you will ask me, are both not aware from the onset before settling down together? Did both of them fail to discuss their faith? Is the righteous one among them not enlightened enough to seek God first? I believe you have lots of questions you’d love to ask me. As a believer, the Bible instructs us not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers (2 Corinthians 6:14-18).
However, those questions keep coming to your mind and you feel like asking them. Have you considered the aspect of pressure from payment? Are you desperate to get married? Pretence from the Unbelieving spouse while courting? And some of the red flags ignored before marriage? Also, a believing spouse can turn to an unbeliever in marriage. Diverse reasons could have resulted in this. A relationship where one spouse embraces faith while the other remains an unbeliever requires a balance of respect, love, and understanding as this can be both enriching and challenging. As believers, we are called to extend grace and compassion to our spouses regardless of their beliefs.
Is your spouse an unbeliever? Do you have a couple you’d love to assist? Is your neighbor in need of this article? Read and pass it on! Here are Seven Practical Ways To Help An Unbelieving Spouse:
1. Demonstrate Unconditional Love
2. Pray Diligently
3. Be Patient and Understanding
4. Share Your Testimony
5. Encourage Spiritual Exploration
6. Seek Guidance Together
7. Trust in God’s Plan.
1. Demonstrate Unconditional Love
As couples, love must be the bedrock of your relationship. If your spouse is an unbeliever should not make you hate them because even when we were sinners, Christ loved us all (Romans 5:8-9). Show your spouse unconditional love and acceptance regardless of what they believe. Let your spouse know that your love for them is not conditional. Showing love to your spouse will draw them closer to you and help them accept who you believe in (1 Corinthians 13:7). Be an example of Christ in your home.
2. Pray Diligently
The power of prayer can not be joked with. Be committed to praying regularly for your spouse’s spiritual journey. Seek God over them and ask God to soften their hearts and reveal Himself to them. Keep praying and never be tired. Keep asking till your joy is full (John 16:24). Trust in God’s timing and sovereignty as you wait on Him over your spouse (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
3. Be Patient And Understanding
Most spouses fail in this aspect. They ignore their partner’s needs because they are not of the same faith. Jesus won over the hearts of unbelievers by drawing them closer. He did not condemn them. Your spouse should not be condemned, rather, you should recognize that faith is a deeply personal journey, and it may take time for your spouse to explore and reconcile their beliefs (Romans 14:1). With patience and understanding, you will successfully win your spouse’s heart and bring them into the household of God (Ephesians 4:2).
4. Share Your Testimony
In diverse ways, our testimonies have brought many into the family of God. Lots of unbelievers had accepted Christ through testimonies. Some persons find it difficult to share their testimony with their Unbelievable spouses but find it easy to share with others outside. Share your testimony of faith with your spouse in a gentle and non-confrontational manner and allow them to see how God has remolded your life, purpose, and vision and has brought fulfillment (1 Peter 3:15). Don’t hold it back, share that testimony with your spouse today and as you do it, Holy Spirit will touch them.
5. Encourage Spiritual Exploration
As a result of the testimony you have shared with your spouse, your diligent prayer, and unconditional love, you should also create time to attend church services together. Also, engage in spiritual discussions, read books on walking with God, pray together, encourage them to fast, and study the scriptures with you. Create time for your spouse by allowing them to ask questions about certain things they are confused about (2 Timothy 2:15).
6. Seek Guidance Together
Scripturally, it’s advisable to seek help and guidance when necessary. Therefore, consider seeking guidance from a trusted pastor, mentor, or counselor who can provide wisdom and support as you both journey through the complexities of your marriage. You must ensure your spouse is also interested in getting help because this will help the counseling moments productive (Proverbs 15:22)
7. Trust In God’s Plan
God has great plans for every home and yours is not an exception. Trust in God’s plan for your marriage and your spouse’s spiritual life. Surrender your desires to God, your fears, hopes, beliefs, and anxieties. Strongly hold on to the fact that He is capable of putting an end to all you do not want over your spouse. Also, have faith that God is at work in your spouse’s life and He has plans to bring your spouse closer to Himself in His perfect timing (Proverbs 3:5-6)
In conclusion, a foundation of love, respect, and patience is essential in helping an unbeliever accept Jesus. By choosing to help your spouse become a believer, you have demonstrated the nature of our Lord Jesus Christ and it is a testament to the enduring power of love and the transformative potential of mutual respect.
As you both walk hand in hand with your spouse through the highs and lows of marriage, you will discover that love knows no bounds and that together you can overcome any obstacle that comes your way. Embrace your spouse today. Practice the seven points listed above and see God at work in your home.
May the heart of your spouse receive the light of God and may their minds be renewed, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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