Are You and Your Spouse Spiritually Walking in the Same Direction? - Crosswalk PLUS Marriage Devotional
Are You and Your Spouse Spiritually Walking in the Same Direction?
By Jennifer Waddle
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” (John 14:26 ESV)
When couples grow closer in the Lord, there’s a special kind of unity that strengthens the marriage. Praying together comes naturally, studying the Scriptures becomes a delight, and discussing spiritual things creates anticipation for God’s continued work in their lives.
But when couples aren’t moving in the same direction spiritually, it can build an unseen tension beneath the surface. Over time, it can lead to a feeling of disconnect that finds its way into everyday conversations and interactions. That’s why it’s important to keep encouraging one another in the Lord, resisting criticism or judgment of the other person’s faith journey.
The good news is the Holy Spirit isn’t bound by our spiritual strengths or weaknesses. He is patient in His ways, willing to help, guide, and counsel couples who are open to His leading.
If you and your spouse are not spiritually walking in the same direction, try to see it through Jesus’ perspective when He said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)
Interestingly, Jesus said these words immediately after explaining the work of the Holy Spirit. What a comforting word for couples who feel mismatched in faith and spiritual matters. There’s more to the story, and we can trust God to continue writing our chapters with one goal in mind: unity with Him and each other.
When one spouse is struggling with their spirituality, it’s the tendency of the other to criticize or try to fix them. But when we let God work in people’s hearts, opening their eyes to the power of His Spirit, we can let go of expectations and rely on the Lord’s timing.
Philippians 2:13 says, “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”
Do we really believe God’s purposes are good? Do we trust Him to work in ways we cannot imagine? Let’s make room for Him to touch our spouse’s heart and bring revelation of spiritual things.
Turn feelings of criticism into words of encouragement, such as:
“Thank you for praying with me last night.”
“I’m so glad we went to church together.”
“Have you read anything interesting in the Bible lately?”
Encourage without pressure, and watch God work in your spouse in ways you never thought possible.
When we want something desperately, our prayers start to sound desperate. We might bargain with God or make promises we can’t keep. Interceding for our spouse’s spiritual walk might require a different way of praying.
For example:
“Lord, please meet them right where they are and show Yourself faithful."
“Lord, please bring a trusted mentor into my spouse’s life, someone who will explain spiritual matters in a way they can accept.”
“Lord, please help us find common ground in Your Word and let You grow us from there.”
These prayers might seem simplistic, but they’re powerfully honest. And remember, God wants our marriages to be in alignment with His will and Word. We can trust Him to hear our cries for help and work in our spouse’s heart.
Sometimes we let spiritual differences create divisions in other areas. But this doesn’t need to be the case. Couples can walk together in other areas, building a strong connection that eventually leads to unity in faith.
This might include:
• Parenting practices and methods
• Hobbies and shared interests
• Physical intimacy
• Moral and political views
• Church or community involvement
The more time spent on things that unify, the more likely spiritual beliefs will start to align. Finding joy and contentment in everyday things will hopefully spread to matters of the heart, leading to a deeper spiritual connection.
Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father, please unify my marriage in every area, especially in spiritual matters. Join us together in faith and life, giving us a united purpose for Your glory. Speak through Your Word and press on our hearts the desire to go deeper with You. Fill us anew with Your Holy Spirit, so that we are led in the way You have marked out for us. In Jesus’ holy name, amen.
Application:
Find one way to encourage your spouse spiritually this week. Even the smallest compliment can make the biggest difference.
Challenge Questions:
- How can you replace criticism or pressure with encouragement as your spouse grows in their relationship with God?
- Are you trusting God’s timing in your spouse’s faith journey, or trying to change them in your own strength?
- What shared activity could help you and your spouse build greater unity and create opportunities for deeper spiritual conversations?
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