Maintain Peace in Your Household

WHEN THE WIFE IS NOT A PRACTICING CHRISTIAN

What if the husband is the practicing Christian and the wife is  not?  The Bible gives direction for such situations. It says: "If any brother has an unbelieving wife, and yet she is agreeable to dwelling with him, let him not leave her."  (1 Corinthians 7:12)  It also admonishes husbands:  "Keep on loving your wives." (Colossians 3:19. 

If you are the husband of a wife with a faith different from yours, be especially careful to show respect for your wife and consideration for her feelings. As an adult, she deserves a measure of freedom to practice her religious beliefs, even if you disagree with them.  The first time you talk to her about your faith, do not expect her to discard long-held beliefs in favor of something new.  Instead of abruptly saying that practices she and her family have cherished for a long time are false, patiently endeavor to reason with her from the Scriptures. It may be that she feels neglected  if you devote a great deal of time to the activities of the congregation. She may oppose your efforts to serve Jehovah, yet the basic message may simply be:  "I need more of your time!"  Be patient.  With your loving consideration, in time, she may be helped to embrace true worship.  -Colossians 3:12-14; 1 Peter 3:8, 9. 

Next time:Maintain Peace in Your Household/TRAINING THE CHILDREN

From the book:  The Secret of FAMILY HAPPINESS