The Commercial Appeal

Set example for loved ones you wish to turn to Christ

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My husband doesn’t want anything to do with God. I didn’t either when we got married, but a few years ago I became friends with someone who is a Christian, and ended up giving my life to Jesus. How can I make him change? When I get after him about it, he just gets angry.

Only God can change your husband’s attitude, and only God can break through the barriers he has erected. No matter how hard you try to change him, only God can do it.

What can you do? First, pray for your husband — consistent­ly and with faith. Over the years I’ve received countless letters from wives and husbands who prayed for their spouses year after year — often almost giving up. But God eventually answered these prayers, and by the power of his Spirit their unbelief was shattered and they were brought to Christ. The Bible’s promise is for you: “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (James 5:16).

Then ask God to make you an example to your husband of Christ’s love and patience and joy. The Bible says concerning unbelievin­g husbands, “If any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words ... when they see the purity and reverence of your lives” (1 Peter 3:1-2).

Don’t misunderst­and me, however; I’m not suggesting you to pretend to be a better Christian than you actually are. But make it your goal to grow in your faith, through reading the Bible and prayer and fellowship with other believers. Not only will your life be changed, but so will that of your husband.

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