Also Read: Colossians 3:1-17
Valerie and John used to attend church together when they first married, but as the years went by, he found other things to do on Sundays and preferred to stay at home while she went alone.
This led to increasing friction between them, for while John became less and less interested in spiritual issues, Valerie found that her faith was growing and God was becoming more important to her. Their problems only got worse whenever they tried to discuss issues of significance.
One day it dawned on Valerie how much she resented and even disliked John. The more she thought about it, the more she worried as to where her feelings could lead. Wisely, she decided to talk to a church counselor, who showed her that, as far possible, she needed to understand, love, and respect her husband —despite their different priorities.
The counselor reminded Valerie that one of the great strengths of Christianity is that, with God’s help, Christians can display a tolerance and acceptance of those who irritate them. Jesus’ love is such a powerful resource that we can respond with dignity and respect —as Jesus did when he was opposed.
If there is one thing that eventually may bring John to Jesus Christ, it will be Valerie’s respect and love for him —especially when he least deserves it. However, in the meantime, Valerie needs to be patient and faithful for as long as it takes.
Suggested Prayer:
“Although I sometimes find it hard to be tolerant, Lord, help me today to appreciate the good things about my husband, and to respect his views —even if I cannot agree with them. Help me to become more like Jesus.”
A Question to Answer:
If Jesus lived in your house, how do you think he would handle your husband’s feelings about him and the church?
The above devotional thought came from the book, Praying for Your Unbelieving Husband …120 Reflections, Prayers, and Action Steps -by Michael and Diane Fanstone. Reverend Fandstone is senior pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Gravesend, England. He is the author of Unbelieving Husbands and the Wives Who Love Them and The Sheep That Got Away. Diane Fanstone is actively involved with her husband’s ministry. They have two children. This is their first book together. It was published by Servant Publications, PO Box 8617, Ann Arbor, MI 48107.
Print This Page (printer-friendly)
Email This Page
and do your online shopping. 
2 comments so far ↓
1 Ashley // Mar 17, 2008 at 2:59 am
(SOUTH AFRICA) Hi, I am a devoted Christian man in a relationship with a Hindu Lady. I really like her, but have issues about marriage because of the different religion. How do you suggest I handle it? Is there a way forward or should I end the relationship? Kind regards, Ashley
2 skwright // Mar 17, 2008 at 1:25 pm
Hi Ashley, As much as you “really like” this Hindu lady, you are unequally yoked in your faith. It pains my heart to tell you that there is no way to move “forward” in your relationship unless she comes to faith in Jesus Christ as her Savior and vows to live her life as His Follower. You would be going against God’s will if you marry her if she remained in the Hindu faith.
The Bible is filled with true stories that point out the sad and tragic consequences that have occurred as a result of those who have married outside of their faith.
We have several articles posted in the “Is He or She the One” section of our web site that you might find helpful to read. I hope you will read them and prayerfully consider what they have to say. I am praying for you brother!
Join the Discussion!