Unequally Yoked (2 Cor. 6:14-18)

Today’s scripture: 2 Corinthians 6:14-18

God’s word is full of wisdom and truth. And it’s also full of practical application. So often, much of the trouble in which we find ourselves is our own doing.

If only we’d read God’s word and would apply it, we would avoid a lot of difficulty.

Today’s verses deal with being in intimate relationships with unbelievers. While we tend to apply this verse to marriage, it also relates to all relationships. While we can be friends with unbelievers, those with whom we are closest should share the most important part of who we are: our faith in Christ.

We are sons and daughters of the God of the universe, the Creator of all things. We reflect the light of our Lord Jesus Christ. And our greatest earthly fellowship comes from those intimate relationships with other believers.

When we’re in what some translations call “unequally yoked” relationships, we’re trying to harmonize disparity. We’re trying to make light and darkness coexist.

And if we’re not careful, the darkness may very well overtake our light.

I’ve been in an unequally yoked marriage for almost 19 years, and it’s not easy. Loving someone deeply and sharing a life with him, yet not sharing the most important part of who I am, can be very painful. Very painful. I confess there have been times when it would have been easy to either let go of my faith or let go of my husband. I feel incredibly blessed that God has kept me close to Him—and close to my husband.

But I would give anything to be able to have a marriage centered on God.

If you’re reading this and you’re contemplating a relationship—especially a marriage—with someone who doesn’t share your faith, please listen to Paul’s words. 

And listen to my own.