Religion can be a volatile subject in any kind of relationship. That’s even more true of marriage, if both spouses hold very divergent views. One spouse is certain that his or her religion is “the one” while the other person feels the same way about his or her own faith, or is not a religious person at all.
It’s a difficult situation, because people who are devoted to their faith feel that way for a reason. It’s usually because they believe that by following the teachings of their religion, worshipping their God, they will be rewarded rather than condemned in the afterlife.
It’s pretty scary to think that even though you will be in Heaven some day, your spouse might not be. When you love someone, you want what is best for him or her, now and in the future, in eternity. This situation can be even more difficult as a couple begins have children. A person who truly believes in good and evil, Heaven and Hell, will want their children to be raised with their religion.
If your spouse is not a person of faith, he or she might not take you seriously. Try not to get upset. The best things you can do is pray for your spouse and try to lead by example, showing your spouse how much your faith means to you each and every day, not just on Sunday. Seeing your peace, your joy, may eventually lead your spouse to join you. He or she may begin attending church.
If you are the spouse that doesn’t feel much interest in religion, consider giving it a chance. If the man or woman you love more than anyone else in the world thinks it is important, there is reason to proceed with an open mind. He or she wants to share something with you, something precious to him or her.