Working With Your Spouse

Beware of being a wife who has a “when-then” attitude, thinking, “When he does this— then I’ll do that.” This method might work some of the time, but when it does, what have you really gained? Your assignment from God is not to change your husband, but to love, follow, assist, and minister to him.

In Acts 18, we find the example of a remarkable husband-wife team: Aquila and Priscilla. In Scripture, they are always mentioned together. Together they set up shop for their tent-making business. Together they were involved in ministry. And together they took Apollos aside and “explained to him the way of God more accurately.” The key word is “together.”

Effective service as a couple requires spiritual growth. Priscilla and Aquila were both learning and growing spiritually under the ministry of Paul. Both were prepared to give Apollos more accurate information when necessary.

Grow continuously in the Lord yourself, and encourage your spouse to grow too. God gave you to each other to be a greater force together than either of you could be alone. To work well as a team, both of you must grow as individuals. Effective service is possible when you make yourself available.

Priscilla and Aquila had a full life of service because they were available. It appears that they had no children, so the opportunities for ministry were greatly increased. There are times and seasons when you will find yourself limited by family and work obligations, but this should be no excuse for failing to use your spiritual gifts in some capacity. Make your best effort to make yourself available to God, and watch Him multiply the effects of your service.

Ecclesiastes 4:9 says, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.” As a couple, your goal is to work together as a team. Working together will make a difference in your marriage. There’s no substitute for the strength that blesses a couple when they accomplish their work and tend to their responsibilities together.

RESPOND

God, thank You for my husband. I want to be an encourager to him, to bless him, and work together with him—not against him. Please show us how and where we can serve You together. Amen.

RENEWING RESOURCES

A Woman After God's Own Heart BibleFind fresh encouragement for everyday concerns and vision for a transformed life.

Encouraging Words for a Woman After God's Own Heart (only $3.00!)A beautifully illustrated book with practical encouragement for living a life as A Woman After God's Own Heart. 

REFLECT
Do you ask your husband how you can help him in serving others?

REMEMBER
Ecclesiastes 4:9 says, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.”


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Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.

Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.


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