Philippians 1:6 may not typically resonate as a verse about marriage, yet its profound truth can significantly enlighten our understanding and expectations within this sacred covenant. Written by Paul from his imprisonment, the verse serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of God’s steadfastness in completing His work in us: “I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”
While often celebrated on coffee mugs and desktop wallpapers for its comforting assurance, this scripture’s everyday implications, especially regarding marriage, might not be immediately apparent. It reassures us that God, who initiates the transformative work of salvation in us, is also faithfully nurturing and perfecting this process in our believing spouses.
The Challenge of Spiritual Growth in Marriage
In the intimacy of marriage, we witness the spiritual struggles and growth of our partners more closely than anyone else. It’s tempting, especially during conflicts or spiritual dry spells, to doubt our spouse’s growth or to impose our roadmap for their spiritual journey. We might catch ourselves suggesting, not always subtly, how they could enhance their devotion—wake earlier for Bible study, lead family prayers more diligently, or engage more actively with community groups.
However, Philippians 1:6 invites us to shift our perspective from control to confidence, affirming that God is actively at work in our spouse’s life, even if the progress isn’t visible on the surface.
Cultivating Sure Confidence
Paul’s unwavering certainty—his “sure” confidence—about God’s work in the Philippians’ lives should mirror our trust in God’s handling of our spouses’ spiritual maturation. This confidence doesn’t stem from a naive hope but is grounded in the reality of God’s promise and power. It challenges us to replace our fleeting wishes with a steadfast belief in God’s purpose and timing.
In marriage, this confidence encourages us to support rather than steer, to pray rather than pry. It teaches us to focus on the larger narrative of God’s redemption and sanctification at work in our partner’s life.
Recognizing the Divine Craftsman
Marriage, in its essence, should not be treated as a do-it-yourself project concerning our spouse’s spiritual state. Just as we anticipate a craftsman to complete his creation with skill and precision, we are reminded that God, the ultimate artisan, is shaping our spouse. This transformation is not merely about refining superficial flaws but about fostering profound spiritual renewal and commitment that aligns with His divine blueprint.
Philippians 1:6 not only assures us of God’s commitment but also gently reproves our tendency to take divine matters into our own hands. We are encouraged to nurture a supportive environment where our spouse can thrive spiritually, recognizing that true growth is orchestrated by God’s Spirit.
Embracing Our Role
While we are not the architects of our spouse’s spiritual journey, our role is crucial. We are called to encourage, support, and pray—actions that align with God’s work but do not replace it. This approach frees us from the burden of responsibility for our spouse’s spiritual progress and allows us to genuinely contribute to a relationship that reflects patience, grace, and mutual growth.
The Ultimate Completion
The completion of this good work, as Paul notes, will culminate at the day of Jesus Christ. This eschatological perspective doesn’t only point us to a future hope but also infuses our present reality with patience and perseverance. It reminds us that the fullness of spiritual maturity we desire for our spouse aligns with God’s ultimate plan of redemption that will be realized in His perfect timing.
In conclusion, Philippians 1:6 calls us not to passive observation but to active faith and patience in our marriages. It challenges us to see beyond the immediate to the eternal, to trust God’s handiwork, and to participate joyfully in the journey, confident that He who began a good work in our loved ones will bring it to glorious completion. Let us, therefore, celebrate and support our spouses, trusting in the Divine Craftsman to perfect His beautiful design in their lives.
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Faith Activist
Featured Image by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash
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