“An equally yoked relationship isn’t about perfection but a common faith, purpose, and values.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – March 24, 2025
Jehoshaphat made ships of Tharshish to go to Ophir for gold: but they went not; for the ships were broken at Ezion-geber. 1 Kings 22:48, NKJV
A relationship lacking alignment in faith and values is destined to fail. Although there may be a few exceptions, why test the Lord? Why invest excessive time and energy when both parties are pulling in opposite directions? Business deals that begin with a friendly handshake can escalate into angry confrontations when one partner perceives truth as lies and lies as truth. Marriages without a shared faith background can result in betrayal and unfaithfulness. Friends who lack alignment in values will eventually cease to value one another. A simple and wise solution is to be yoked to Jesus Christ in faith and, in other significant relationships, connect with those who are also yoked to God. Being equally yoked gives energy, purpose, and love to relationships.
Scripture reveals the folly of seeking partnership with an unbeliever. King Jehoshaphat of Judah was generally a faithful king who sought God, but he had a weakness—he continually formed alliances with ungodly kings. One such alliance was with Ahaziah, the wicked king of Israel. Together, they planned to build ships at Ezion-Geber to sail to Ophir for gold, hoping to amass wealth. However, God disapproved of this partnership. Through the prophet Eliezer, God warned Jehoshaphat: “Because you have joined yourself with Ahaziah, the Lord has destroyed your works.” (2 Chronicles 20:37). Consequently, the ships were destroyed before they could even set sail (1 Kings 22:48). This story serves as a reminder that God blesses obedience to His ways, not compromise. Aligning with those who oppose His ways can result in failure, frustration, and lost opportunities. Waiting on the Lord’s best often takes longer, but wisdom is proved over time.
There would be no Billy Graham without Ruth Graham. The Lord called Billy to preach the gospel, but Ruth was the anchor in their relationship, the one called to pray. Billy stated, “Ruth was my life partner, and we were called by God as a team. No one else could have borne the weight that she carried.” Ruth herself deeply believed in the power of prayer, noting, “Satan fears prayer because God hears prayer.” Their shared commitment to faith and prayer was central to their lives and ministry. Being equally yoked with God and others builds an unbreakable bond.
Here are some guidelines to follow to help ensure you are equally yoked. Seek God First: Before entering a relationship, make sure your foundation is in Christ alone. (Matthew 6:33). Pray for Clarity: Ask God for wisdom and discernment about whether this relationship honors Him. (James 1:5). Observe Their Actions, Not Just Their Words: Watch how they live out their faith, not just what they say. (Matthew 7:16). Seek Wise Counsel: Ask trusted mentors, pastors, or godly friends for their perspective. (Proverbs 11:14). Take Your Time: Wait on God’s timing. Pause to pray for spiritual and emotional misalignment. Be Honest With Yourself: If red flags arise, stop; yellow flags, wait; green flags, go. A relationship should bring energy and growth, not a constant struggle. An equally yoked relationship isn’t about perfection but a common faith, purpose, and values. When you walk together in unity with Christ at the center, your relationship will be stronger, healthier, and filled with peace and total trust!
Prayer
Lord, guide me to walk in relationships that honor You. Help me seek unity in faith, purpose, and love. Give me wisdom to be equally yoked and glorify You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Application
What does being equally yoked look like in your relationships?
Related Reading
Proverbs 27:17; Amos 3:3; 1 Corinthians 15:33; 2 Corinthians 6:14
Worship Resource
Tauren Wells: Thank You for the Cross
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