Winning the Unbelieving Spouse

What does the Word of God say to a believing wife who has an unbelieving husband? And by implication, what does the Scripture say to a believing spouse who is married to an unbelieving spouse?

Actions speak louder than words. “Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives” (1 Peter 3:1).

Your spouse’s conversion is the work of God. And it is going to happen in God’s timing, not yours. Pray for them. Exercise love toward them, and watch God work. Don’t nag your spouse about Christ. Just be a witness. Demonstrate the character of Christ.

First Peter 3:2-5 tells wives that inner beauty is the beauty of godly character. When the focus of a woman’s life is on worshiping and glorifying God, the inner beauty of her character shines through.

In verse 4, Peter speaks of “the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit.” This unfading beauty does not flow from a critical spirit. It is not found in pushy, aggressive, or assertive behavior. Rather, the beauty of inner character speaks words of encouragement and wisdom. This unfading beauty speaks words of wise counsel when the need arises. When a woman exudes inner beauty, she doesn’t have to use words to witness to her unbelieving spouse.

In order for a believing spouse to walk free of fear (see 1 Peter 3:6), that spouse must submit to God first and foremost. This submission will free a believing wife to submit to her husband and a believing husband to love his wife.

Prayer: God, thank You that my spouse’s salvation is not up to me. Help my life to be a demonstration of You in my marriage. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.