God's Wisdom for Marriage, Family, and Work

Have you ever found yourself thinking that Christianity seems good in theory but feels irrelevant to your daily life? If so, you're not alone. Many of us quietly wrestle with this notion, assuming Christianity is mainly about the afterlife and a few restrictive rules for the here and now. But this perspective misses the true heart of what following Jesus means. Christianity is profoundly practical, offering guidance for our marriages, families, and workplaces—those places where we spend most of our time and energy.

At the heart of a Christian marriage is the principle Paul highlights in Ephesians 5:21: "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." This isn't about dominance or control but about mutual respect, sacrifice, and service. In a culture obsessed with individual happiness, this teaching feels radical. Paul emphasizes that husbands should love their wives as Christ loved the church—sacrificially, completely, and humbly. Wives, in turn, are called to respect their husbands, creating a dynamic of mutual submission.

The real-life story of Tommy and Ashley captures this beautifully. They've built their 23-year marriage on a simple but powerful concept: intentionally trying to out-serve one another. From Tommy making the bed and joyfully (even if initially grudgingly) unloading the dishwasher, to Ashley publicly affirming and appreciating him, their relationship thrives because each consistently prioritizes the other’s needs and happiness.

Consider your own marriage or significant relationship. Is mutual submission and service at its core? Are you actively seeking ways to bless and build up your partner, or is your approach more transactional?

Moving from marriage to parenting, Ephesians 6:1-4 calls children to honor and obey their parents—not because it’s easy, but because it fosters a healthier, safer, and more joyful life. Equally important, Paul warns parents, particularly fathers, not to provoke or discourage their children. Instead, parents should nurture their children gently, pointing them toward Jesus through their actions and attitudes.

This nurturing approach was perfectly illustrated by Nathan’s memory of his father, Dennis, who gently comforted him during a Boy Scout camp, offering support rather than correction or judgment. Similarly, Shaun’s story with his son Kaiser reveals how intentional time, sacrificial love, and genuine care can shape a child’s life profoundly. Kaiser’s emotional acknowledgment of his father’s influence underscores the powerful impact parents have when they prioritize relationship-building over rigid discipline.

Reflect on your interactions within your family. Are your words and actions building up your children and affirming their value, or are they provoking frustration or resentment? Parenting with Christ-like compassion and intentionality can transform family dynamics and create lasting bonds of love and respect.

Christianity doesn’t stop at home—it reaches into our workplaces too. Ephesians 6:5-9 instructs employees to work diligently and ethically, as though Jesus himself were their supervisor. Employers, likewise, are called to practice the golden rule, treating employees with respect, fairness, and dignity.

Scott’s story at Premier Stair and Door exemplifies this principle in action. Starting from scratch, Scott built a successful business grounded in biblical values. His commitment to employ individuals seeking a second chance after incarceration highlights how Christian ethics in business can create transformative opportunities. Scott views his business as his primary ministry, demonstrating that serving Christ in the workplace means empowering others, practicing integrity, and fostering a compassionate and supportive environment.

Ask yourself how your faith informs your approach to your career. Do you see your job merely as a paycheck, or do you see it as a platform to reflect Christ’s love and justice?

The teachings of Christianity, especially as highlighted in Ephesians, are profoundly relevant. They guide us clearly in how we relate to our spouses, children, parents, employees, and employers. When lived authentically, our faith transforms everyday routines into meaningful interactions that reflect the love of Jesus.

The challenge for each of us is to listen and respond to what God is speaking into our lives about these critical areas. Are you open to letting the Holy Spirit guide you deeper into the practical realities of following Jesus? Is there someone in your circle who desperately needs the hope and wisdom of these teachings in their relationships or workplace?

Don’t settle for an irrelevant imitation of Christianity. Embrace its powerful, practical wisdom. As you do, you'll find that the gospel truly does change everything—not just eternally, but right here and right now.