How can one successfully open themselves up to spreading the Word of God or helping to nurture another along in the faith if they themselves are not properly prepared?
Better still how can husband or wife be effective in their work for the Kingdom if they have not ensured their spouse is equipped to pursue a deep and enriching spiritual life with God?
A husband and wife, as Paul properly notes, become concerned with their families and put themselves first over serving the needs of the Gospel beyond their house (1 Cor. 7:32-35). Yet this is certainly to be expected and the married reading this would all likely agree that they are concerned with pleasing and caring for their marriage partner. However, as aptly stated, the rest of the work of God is divided in your heart for you love your God and your spouse and deciding between the two brings conflict to the flesh.
In 2 Corinthians Paul addresses this issue in a manner that may be helpful to the married and for the purpose of spreading the Word to distant lands. Paul points out in the context of the Corinthian church that he desires that they continue to grow in their faith (2 Cor. 10:15-16) so that, like a spouse or parent would see it, he can have confidence that his own were prepared to handle themselves so he could leave them alone and pursue other matters. This is where our equipping our spouse can result in greater opportunity to serve the needs of the Church beyond our home.
Should we be concerned with the spiritual state of our spouse? Certainly. Should we encourage their growth in a positive manner? Absolutely. However, once they are secure and pursuing the expansion of their faith in Christ then we can widen our work beyond our shores. Husbands and wives be encouraged to fortify one another so that your furnishing might result in the amplification of your mission field.
Serve God and His needs will become yours, at home and abroad.
Have a great Sunday friends!
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