Conclusion of IF YOUR HUSBAND HAS A DIFFERENT FAITH

For a Christian, attending congregation meetings and witnessing to others about one's Bible-based faith are important aspects of true worship that are not to be neglected.  (Romans 10:9, 10, 14; Hebrews 10:24, 25) What would you do, then, if a human directly commanded you not to comply with a specific requirement of God? "We must obey God as ruler rather than men." (Acts 5:29) Their example provides a precedent that is applicable to many situations in life.  Will love for Jehovah move you to render to him the devotion that rightly belongs to him?  At the same time, will your love and respect for your husband cause you to try to do this in a way  that is acceptable  to him? -Matthews 4:10; 1 John 5:3 

Jesus noted that this would not always be possible.  He warned that because of opposition to true worship, believing members of some families would feel cut off, as if a sword had come between them and the rest of the family.  (Matthew 10:34-36) A woman in Japan experienced this.  She was opposed by her husband for 11 years.  He harshly mistreated her and frequently locked her out of the house.  But she persevered.  Friends in the Christian congregation helped her. She prayed incessantly and drew much encouragement from 1 Peter 2:20.  This Christian woman was convinced that if she remained firm, someday her husband would join her in serving Jehovah. And he did.

 There are many practical things you can do to affect your mate's attitude.  For example, if your husband objects to your religion, do not give him valid causes for complaint in other areas. Keep the home clean. Care for your personal appearance.  Be generous with expressions of love and appreciation.  Instead of criticizing, be supportive.  Show that you look to him for headship.   Do not retaliate if you feel you have been wronged.  (1 Peter 3:21, 23) Make allowances for human imperfection, and if a dispute arises, humbly be the first to apologize. -Ephesians 4:26. 

Do not let your attendance at meetings be a reason for his meals being late.  You may also choose to share in the Christian ministry at times when your husband is not at home. It is wise for a Christian wife to refrain from preaching to her husband when this is unwelcomed.  Rather, she follows the apostle Peter's counsel:  "You wives be in subjection to your own husbands, in order that,  if any are not obedient to the word, they may be won without a word through the conduct of their wives, because of having been eyewitnesses of your chaste conduct together without deep respect." (1 Peter 3:1, 2) Christian wives work  on more fully manifesting the fruits of God's spirit. -Galatians 5:22, 23. 

Next time: WHEN THE WIFE IS NOT A PRACTICING CHRISTIAN

From the book: THE SECRET OF FAMILY HAPPINESS, 1996