How do a husband and wife move forward when they disagree about God’s call? When do you defer to your spouse with the goal of honoring him or her, and when do you speak and advocate for what you believe is a God-given desire and direction?

During the twists and turns of a ministry journey, godly husbands and wives are eager to support one another. But that doesn’t mean they always see eye to eye. If you’ve known disagreement over a call, it’s easy to resonate with the feelings Harlem pastor Jason James describes in his recent article:

It’s painful when marital unity eludes us. Even innocent disagreements can feel high-stakes. Underneath, we fear real and final division over our destiny and purpose. The anxiety that we’ll make a bad ministry decision turns into a fear we’ve married the wrong person. Resentment seems inevitable for the spouse who blinks first, and a peaceful way forward seems like nothing short of a miracle.

But, as James goes on to say, “The need for miracles in ministry should be no surprise.” Couples in ministry anticipate God’s supernatural work through the church. We ought also to anticipate God’s intervening work in our hearts and homes. 

God loves to bring unity where there is division. He delights in showing his glory through our weakness and limits (2 Cor. 4:7). And as husbands and wives struggle for unity, he often teaches them to depend upon him and have patience with one another. Jason’s story is a beautiful example of this reality. I believe it’ll encourage you and your spouse.

Resting in his power,