SUNDAY MORNING SOLO ACT

The spiritual journey can be a deeply fulfilling path, but what happens when you find yourself walking it alone within your marriage? Many Christian women face the heartache of having a spouse who doesn't share their faith commitment or attend church. This experience can trigger feelings of failure, isolation, and even questions about one's own spiritual worth.

Listen to my Podcast on:

First and foremost, it's crucial to understand that you are not a failure because your husband doesn't attend church. As believers, we often mistakenly assume responsibility for the spiritual lives of everyone in our household, especially our spouses. We internalize their disinterest in faith as a reflection of our own shortcomings or lack of influence. However, this perspective misunderstands the deeply personal nature of faith. The Holy Spirit works in each heart individually, in His own timing, and through His own methods. Our responsibility is not to force conversion or church attendance but to live authentically in our own faith journey.

Romans 15:13 reminds us, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him." This verse emphasizes that our peace comes from trusting God, not from controlling the spiritual outcomes of those around us. Your identity and worth are found in Christ alone, not in your husband's approval or participation in church activities. When we place our spiritual validation in the hands of others, even those closest to us, we set ourselves up for disappointment and drift from the truth of who we are in Christ.

Many women in this situation fall into patterns of guilt-inducing behavior—sighing loudly while getting ready for church alone, making subtle comments about attending "by myself again," or unfavorably comparing their husband to other "godly husbands." These approaches rarely lead to the desired outcome and often push spouses further away from faith. The Holy Spirit alone has the role of conviction; our job is to plant seeds of faith through our living example. First Peter 3:1-2 speaks to this dynamic, suggesting that a wife's conduct can be a more compelling witness than her words.

FINDING PEACE WHEN YOUR HUSBAND DOESN'T WANT TO COME TO CHURCH

Developing your own sacred rhythms becomes essential when navigating faith alone in marriage. These practices don't require your husband's participation or approval but can sustain and nurture your soul through challenging seasons. Consider creating space for early morning journaling or scripture reading before the household awakens. Place scripture cards in common areas of your home as visual reminders of God's presence. Transform routine activities like school drop-offs into opportunities for worship through music. These simple practices acknowledge that God meets us in the ordinary moments of our days, not just in formal church settings.

Guiding children in faith when one parent doesn't participate presents its own challenges. Rather than focusing on what's missing, concentrate on modeling authentic faith. Let your children see you reading scripture, praying, and worshiping. Incorporate Jesus into everyday conversations naturally: "Look how beautiful God made the sky today" or "Let's thank Jesus for this meal." Establish simple faith rhythms like bedtime prayers or scripture stories. Importantly, avoid speaking negatively about your spouse's lack of faith involvement. Honor him in your words and actions, showing your children that respect is part of your faith expression, even in disagreement. Remember, you're not discipling your children alone—the Holy Spirit partners with you.

Perhaps the most liberating truth in this journey is releasing the "Savior complex." You are not responsible for your husband's salvation or spiritual growth—you are his wife, partner, and encourager, but only Christ can be his Savior. When we try to fix, convert, or spiritually improve our spouses, we step into a role that was never intended for us. Instead, intercede through prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to work. Pray scripture over your husband, focusing not on changing him for your benefit but on his experience of God's fullness and love.

COMMUNITY MATTERS

This season can feel isolating, especially in church environments where couples' activities and shared faith experiences are highlighted. Seek community with others who understand your situation—even one supportive friend can make a significant difference. Join Bible studies, attend church events, and connect with women in similar circumstances. The journey may be challenging, but your faithfulness matters profoundly.

As Galatians 6:9 encourages, "Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Your obedience is never in vain, and the seeds you're planting—in your children's hearts, in your home, and potentially in your husband's life—are being watered by God, even when you can't see the growth.

Want simple ways to consistently connect with God?

I help Christian women deepen their spiritual growth through devotions, prayer, and aromatherapy that will get you past procrastination and into a heart-healing rhythm of daily devotions.

Show Me How