Love Dare Day 34

~Day 34~ Love celebrates godliness~

[Love] does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth. —1 Corinthians 13: 6

The closer you and your spouse are to God, the more loving you will be in marriage (John 13: 34– 35). Our roles as husband or wife are greatly enhanced by becoming growing Christians. People who don’t rely on God are significantly limited, left to depend on their own changing feelings, selfish thinking, and human efforts. But with Him, we have daily access to His toolbox for marriage. His Word nourishes us spiritually and equips us (2 Timothy 3: 16– 17).        

But what if your spouse is not a believer? How can you champion godly behavior in them if they don’t believe in God and refuse to submit to Him? Paul told believing spouses to stay true to their unbelieving mates, pray for them, and live an exemplary life before them in reverence to God (1 Corinthians 7: 10– 16). Yes, this may invite ridicule in some marriages. But when Christ takes over a man’s heart, the long-term life change and spiritual transformation God develops in him is a powerful testimony that is hard for his wife to deny. Scripture exhorts wives to quietly use their submission, purity, and respectful behavior to win over their husbands (1 Peter 3: 1– 2). Sometimes you may feel as if you are only making it more difficult for your spouse to see Jesus in you. But stay prayerful, respectful, and loving. God is not finished with them yet. He has placed a witness to Himself right in their bed next to  them.

We should be encouraging our spouses and rejoicing in how God works to accomplish His plan for them and for our marriage.

~~TODAY'S DARE~~

Find a specific, recent example when your spouse demonstrated Christian character in a noticeable way (faith, love, honesty, patience, kindness, service, compassion, humility, etc.). Verbally commend them for this at some point

What example did you choose to recognize?

How many other ways could you celebrate their growth in godliness?

How could you encourage them to persevere in it?

Taken from the LOVE DARE book!