Question of the Day

When Kenneth and Gloria started their journey of faith they had questions too—lots of them! So, we've compiled the most frequently asked questions by people like you—people who earnestly desire to find God's answers to the practical, real-life challenges of everyday living. We have a new question every day, so check back often!

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Must I attend my spouse’s church?
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Unity is vital to marriage, whether deciding on church attendance or any other important issue. God loves you and your spouse deeply, and His main desire is that you walk in unity with one another. Sometimes it may seem difficult to gain common ground on certain issues, but by the power of God you can both walk in unity if you will put your trust in Him.

Coming to agreement on the right church to attend requires that both of you spend adequate time in prayer about the decision. As you come together, share each of your reasons and preferences in a loving, non-condemning way. Both of you can then prayerfully take into account each other’s feelings and the reasons you have for wanting to attend a specific church. Approaching the situation in such a way will help open the door for greater understanding and allow God to speak to your hearts (1 Peter 3:1-5).

Making a final decision may require that one of you submit to the other. Regarding submission, the Bible says, “For wives, this means submit to your husbands as to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:22). According to God’s Word, a wife should submit to her husband as he submits to the Lord (Colossians 3:17-25). A husband, however, may be led by the Lord to submit his will to his wife’s preference in order to keep peace and unity in the home. In the end, unity is achieved when both husband and wife remain in God’s love and prefer one another.

Regardless of where you go to church, you can take the responsibility to study the Word of God for yourself. Strengthen yourself in the Lord by reading His Word and praying, no matter where you attend church. In the end you will find that walking in love and obedience will cause your spouse to respect your opinions. It will also give God an opportunity to work in his or her heart. Remember, love never fails!