Q:
We've been married for five years, and my husband and I still can't agree on what church to go to. We grew up in different denominations and neither of us wants to change, but as our children get older I know we need to decide where we'll take them to church. How can we settle this?
A:
I’m thankful you not only want to be connected with a church, but you also want your children to participate in its activities. And as a general rule, it’s best if you and your husband do attend the same church (although I know there are exceptions).
How can you resolve this? First, ask God to show you His will concerning this—even if it means one of you must change. God knows your needs, and He wants to lead you to the right church for you and your family. Be open to His guidance; He may even lead you to an entirely different church.
Second, think through carefully and prayerfully what you and your family really need. Don’t insist on a particular church just because you grew up in it or feel comfortable with it. Instead, seek out a church where Christ and the Bible are central, and you and your children will have opportunities for genuine spiritual growth.
Finally, make Christ the center of your home. Yes, choosing the right church for you and your family is important. But your children also need to see that Christ is real to you, and that He makes a difference in the way you live. Make sure of your commitment to Christ and His ways, and then make it your goal to “Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home” (Deuteronomy 11:19).
Do you have a commitment to Christ?