The Company We Keep

Choosing a Godly Spouse

“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” 

 1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV)

In 1 Kings 21, we encounter one of the darkest pairings in Scripture: King Ahab and Queen Jezebel. While Ahab was already a compromised man, Scripture makes a striking observation: “There was never anyone like Ahab, who sold himself to do evil in the eyes of the Lord, urged on by Jezebel his wife” (1 Kings 21:25). Jezebel didn’t simply enable Ahab’s sin—she escalated it. Her ruthless pursuit of power, idolatry, and violence became the fuel that drove Ahab deeper into rebellion against God.

This tragic story serves as a sobering reminder: the people closest to us profoundly shape who we become. Nowhere is this more true than in marriage. The one we choose to walk through life with can either lead us closer to God or away from Him. As Proverbs 12:4 teaches, “A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.” The same could be said of a husband. Spouses are not just companions—they are spiritual partners.

The right spouse, centered on Christ, can be a source of strength, wisdom, and grace. Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 reminds us, “Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” But if one drags the other down, it can result in mutual destruction. Theologian Matthew Henry once wrote, “Those who do not fear God themselves are not likely to make good counselors to others.”

Ahab’s downfall was not inevitable. God sent prophets, signs, and even mercy—but Jezebel hardened his heart. Contrast that with Priscilla and Aquila in the New Testament (Acts 18:26), a husband-and-wife team who worked side by side with Paul, hosted a house church, and together taught Apollos “the way of God more accurately.” The difference is striking.Their marriage was marked by shared purpose, spiritual unity, and humble service—an example of how a godly union can advance the kingdom of God and nurture truth in others.

Reflection:

Whom we choose to walk with matters. Whether single or married, we should seek relationships that stir up love for Christ. And if we are married, we are called to be that source of godly encouragement for our spouse—lifting them toward Jesus, not away from Him.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to walk closely with those who love You and to be a faithful encourager to those around me. If I am married, make me a blessing to my spouse. And if I am waiting, give me wisdom to choose someone who will love You above all. Amen.