Power with Purpose: God’s Design for Power Dynamics in Marriage

God gives men authority in the home and calls them to be leaders-but what does that look like in practical terms? Unfortunately, Christians today have many mistaken ideas based on scriptural misunderstandings, cultural baggage, or flawed examples. Many marriages struggle as a result.

David and Krista Dunham-biblical counselors and spouses-have teamed up to write a guidebook to help husbands to use their power in the way God intended: to imitate Christ by empowering their wives and children. Learn how to provide support, safety, and stability in key areas of married life: from communication, decision-making, and sanctification to sexual intimacy, parenting, and household management. Providing questions for reflection, resources for further study, and the tools to create a shared family vision statement, the Dunhams equip you to make concrete, life-giving changes that will strengthen your marriage and parenting.

184 pages.

“This is the book I’ve been waiting for. The Dunhams masterfully frame power as neither a vice to be abandoned nor a privilege to lord over our spouse. Instead, they call us to the beautifully Biblical concept of Power Under. This Christ-like model, rooted in serving and sacrificing for our families out of reverence for Him, is the transformative message every marriage needs today.”
–Chris Moles

“Power with Purpose is not just a book about marriage roles-it’s a heart-level call to love like Jesus. David and Krista Dunham help us see that biblical authority is not about control but about Christlike sacrifice. With theological clarity and pastoral compassion, they offer a vision of marriage rooted in mutual flourishing rather than power struggles. This book is a needed recalibration for couples, churches, and anyone longing to see grace shape the deepest relationships in their lives.”
–Darby Strickland

“Christians often think about expressions of love or gender roles within marriage. But we overlook the use of power in marriage. However, if our marriage impact us more than any other human relationship, considering how to use influence in a God-honoring way, is an essential subject. In Power with Purpose, Dave and Krista take you on a biblical exploration of this neglected subject. If you take the time to read it, you’ll become more intentional and Christlike in the way you use influence within your marriage.”
–Brad Hambrick

“For too long the dynamic of marital roles has been the defining characteristic of Christian marriage. While reaffirming the beauty of traditional marital roles, David and Krista Dunham provide an incredible service to the church by showing how marriage is about much more than roles. And in a culture filled with reactions and overreactions, Power Dynamics, is a breath of fresh air that both highlights God’s good design for authority and provides a gracious path forward when that God-given authority is misused.”
–Scott Mehl

“Power with Purpose is a theologically grounded and pastorally wise resource that exposes misplaced trust and self-reliance, which are often underneath our craving for control. With Scripture as its foundation and Christ as its aim, this book helps believers pursue true transformation through repentance, humility, and faith in the sovereign grace of God. A valuable counseling tool.”
–Paul Tautges