Christian Community: The Secret Ingredient for a Stronger Marriage

Aaron and Jennifer Smith Authors and Podcasters of Marriage After God
Updated Jul 11, 2023

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This article is based on the Marriage After God Podcast episode “Building Strong Marriages: The Role of Christian Community,”

Four years into our marriage, we found ourselves broken, isolated, and teetering on the brink of divorce.

Despite being believers and loving God, our marital struggles had led us down a dangerous path of believing lies and harboring deep bitterness toward each other. It was a dark time, and we desperately needed help.

Then, by what we can only describe as God’s divine grace, we stumbled upon a Christian marriage group at our church that would become our lifeline.

As we vividly recall those early days, we remember the apprehension that washed over us as we stood at the back of the room, observing hundreds of other married couples seated, waiting for the Bible study to begin.

We were unsure of what to expect. Would they judge us? Would they think we were unfixable or broken? Despite these fears, deep down, we knew that we needed something to happen that would save our marriage.

Little did we know that this decision to step into that room would forever impact our lives and the trajectory of our marriage.

The Importance of Christian Community

Surrounded by fellow believers — married couples who faced similar challenges and shared a common commitment to living out their faith — we discovered a supportive network that would provide invaluable guidance and encouragement.

In the embrace of this community, not only did we find deep and lasting friendships, but also, we began to understand why God desires His children to walk in unity with His Body.

Within the Christian marriage group, we found a safe haven where we could lay bare our struggles, fears, and insecurities.

It was a space where authenticity was the norm, and vulnerability was met with empathy and understanding. We discovered that we were not alone in our trials and that others had walked similar paths and, through Christ, emerged stronger on the other side.

Through the shared wisdom and experiences of fellow believers, we gained practical tools and biblical insights that helped us navigate the complexities of our marriage.

We learned the importance of forgiveness, grace, and open communication. We discovered the power of prayer and how seeking God's guidance together could bring about miraculous transformation within our relationship.

In this community, we experienced firsthand the truth of Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, which states, "Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!"

Together, we lifted each other up, offering unwavering support and encouragement during the darkest moments of our marriages.

Through our journey in the Christian marriage group, we realized that God designed us for connection and interdependence. He knew that we needed one another to navigate the challenges and joys of married life.

We discovered that walking in unity with fellow believers not only strengthens our faith but also breathes life into our relationships.

Looking back on our marriage, we can confidently say that if we had not found the Christian marriage group when we did, our story would have taken a drastically different turn. The community we found became a beacon of hope, guiding us toward restoration and renewal.

Through their love, support, and unwavering faith, we rediscovered the beauty of marriage and the transformative power of God's grace. Christian community is truly the secret ingredient for a stronger marriage.

We Are Not Meant to Journey Alone

As we reflect on the impact of the Christian community on our marriage, we realize that there are several key reasons why God desires His people to walk together rather than alone.

1. God knows that isolation can be detrimental to our spiritual well-being. In Genesis 2:18, God declares that it is not good for man to be alone. He created us for connection and companionship, both with Him and with one another.

By walking together in Christian community, we fulfill this innate need for fellowship and find strength, encouragement, and accountability in our faith journey.

Proverbs 18:1 also warns against the desire to isolate ourselves, which is selfish, and how in doing so, we go against all sound judgment.

2. God designed the body of Christ to function as a unified whole, with each member contributing their unique gifts and talents.

In Romans 12:4-5, it is stated, "For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another."

By walking in unity with other believers, we not only receive support and guidance but also have the opportunity to serve and bless others with our own God-given gifts.

3. Walking in Christian community allows us to experience the wisdom of others. Proverbs 15:22 reminds us, "Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed."

When we engage in intimate fellowship with fellow believers, we gain access to a wealth of diverse perspectives, experiences, and insights. This collective wisdom helps us make sound decisions, navigate challenges, and grow in our understanding of God's Word.

4. Christian community provides a fertile ground for accountability and growth. In James 5:16, it is written, "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."

Within the safety of trusted relationships, we can confess our struggles, seek guidance, and receive prayerful support. This vulnerability and accountability lead to healing, growth, and the transformation of our hearts and marriages.

Our journey in the Christian marriage group taught us the importance of seeking out true biblical Christian community. It reminded us that we are not meant to face the trials of marriage or life alone.

As believers, we are called to walk alongside one another, offering support, wisdom, and love. It is within the embrace of a Christ-centered community that we find the strength to overcome challenges, experience healing, and cultivate a marriage that reflects the love of God.

Through the Christian marriage group, we discovered a network of believers who walked alongside us during our darkest days and helped us find hope, restoration, and renewal.

An Encouraging Word

We encourage every married couple to seek out true and deep Christian community, to be vulnerable, and to embrace the transformative power of walking together in unity with fellow believers.

In doing so, you will find strength, encouragement, and a deep sense of belonging as you navigate the beautiful journey of marriage.

For further reading:

Building a Strong Foundation: 6 Divine Callings for Every Marriage

How to Pray for Your Husband: 8 Specific Areas to Pray Over Your Husband

What Is the Biblical Definition of Marriage?

Aaron and Jennifer Smith recognize the beauty and power of how God designed every marriage unique. We are passionate about encouraging couples to set their eyes on God while boldly asking the question, “God, what can our marriage do for you?” In our books, we share personal stories of failure and victory from our own marriage while pointing to the wisdom in God’s Holy Word. We have been married for over 16 years and are currently raising five young children, and we are no strangers to the enemy’s attack on marriage. We hope to equip you to be prepared, inspired, and encouraged to live boldly, chasing after God’s purposes together. Ever since we got married, we have purposed to serve God and build His kingdom together. We blog, write books, and host a weekly podcast urging couples to say yes to God and to be used by God for His extraordinary purposes.