Chip and Joanna Gaines, known for their successful HGTV reality show Fixer Upper that aired in 2013, are proud Christians. They have been happily married since 2003, and now have five children together. While they seem to be a perfect match, Chip and Joanna's personalities couldn't be more opposite. The pair shares how they never could have expected what God had in store for them and what they've learned through their marriage. Joanna is a rule-follower who likes safety, stability, and predictability. Enter Chip, the exact opposite. A rule-breaker who loves the thrill of pushing the boundaries, Chip always sought adventure. Through their marriage, they share how the other has pushed them out of their comfort zones and into a deeper understanding of God. They have learned to celebrate their differences and become better versions of themselves and who God calls them to be.
Marriage is an intimate covenant where you are deeply known and loved by another. Chip shares that this vulnerability allowed him to drop the facade he always hid behind. Feeling known for his flaws and strengths, he no longer felt the need to prove himself. On the flip side, Joanna shares that she has learned to lean into what God has called her to rather than staying hidden. When Chip asked Joanna if they could make their home renovation business a reality show, she stepped out of her comfort zone and agreed; the last season had 25 million views. Joanna has learned to leave comfort behind and step out in faith as God calls us to. The two have a beautiful marriage that is a testament of how the Lord can work through marriage to draw us closer to Him. While their relationship doesn't make sense on paper, Chip and Joanna have proved that they are "perfectly opposite," and that it is possible to grow together. Hear more about their love story and God's work in their marriage below:
Originally published Tuesday, 18 October 2016.
