For the unbelieving husband is set apart (separated, withdrawn from heathen contamination, and affiliated with the Christian people) by union with his consecrated (set-apart) wife, and the unbelieving wife is set apart and separated through union with her consecrated husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean (unblessed heathen, [a]outside the Christian covenant), but as it is they are [b]prepared for God [pure and clean].
(1 Corinthians 7:14)
Being married to an unbeliever is hard. There will be conflicts concerning ideologies, values, principles, and these conflicts will come in the way of agreeing upon something together. It is no wonder then that the Bible does not recommend being ‘unequally yoked’ with our spouses. But, if you are married to an unbeliever, is all hope lost? Certainly not! When you commit your ways to Christ and invite Him into your marriage, He will restore the balance. But, what happens when you have a child in the equation? How do you reconcile your differences as a couple and provide a solid foundation of love for your children?
Let’s take a look at Eunice, the mother of Timothy (2 Timothy 1:5). She had a father and a husband who did not conform to the Jewish customs and religious mandates (Acts 16:1, 3). Yet, as a Jewish woman, Eunice imparted her faith to her son Timothy. She remembered what her mother Lois had taught her and she passed on her spiritual legacy to her son, even though she did not have the help of her unbelieving spouse. This is a very encouraging passage for all believers married to unbelieving spouses and fearful of their children’s spiritual life.
As a believer, you need to place your trust in God to bring about the inner transformation in your unbelieving spouse. You must understand that you cannot change your spouse…only God can! But, you can set an example to your spouse by bearing the fruits of the Spirit, which are love, compassion, gentleness, self-control, patience, peace, and faithfulness. Don’t force them into ‘believing’ or emotionally blackmail them into coming to church with you. Instead of criticizing or judging your spouse, commit them into God’s hands and be confident that He will bring about the change your desire in your spouse. Remember, your words and actions in everyday life have the power to turn your spouse’s heart towards God.
