Keepin' the faith in intercultural marriage

Many intercultural couples assume that as long as both partners are Christians, they’ll share the same spiritual values, but this isn’t necessarily true. Intercultural couples often grapple with differences in their core values and beliefs regarding the following issues:


·  abortion
·  alcohol and drug use
·  baptism
·  church attendance
·  circumcision
·  communion
·  contraception, pregnancy and infertility treatment
·  dancing
·  dating/courtship
·  dealing with illness and its treatment
·  death (including cremation and burial rites)
·  euthanasia
·  health care
·  heaven and hell
·  immigration
·  justice/law enforcement  
·  parenting
·  “proper” attire
·  salvation
·  sexuality
·  tithing/financial giving

When you have an opportunity, be sure to discuss your beliefs with your spouse regarding the above issues. Take the time to understand what he or she believes, as well. For more insights into intercultural marriage, please check out my upcoming book Taking the Leap, which contains detailed guidance for addressing and overcoming differences with regard to values, worldviews and beliefs.