Is Your Marriage a Vessel for God’s Purpose?
Demi Tebow Shares How to Make It Happen
Demi Tebow, formerly Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters, rose to global fame when she won Miss Universe in 2017. Known for much more than her crown, now—she is an advocate, a devoted Christian, and the loving wife of former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow. Together, they share a greater purpose–serving others and living out God’s calling.
Demi talked to us about how she and Tim have found purpose within their marriage, and how their mutual mission has strengthened their relationship. Her story is a beautiful example of what it means to be partners in faith, serving God and others together.
“A Vessel to Live Out Our God-Given Purpose”
Demi and Tim understand marriage as much more than partnership, but something so much greater. Their shared purpose has become the foundation of their relationship: “Once we met, [we realized] we get to use our marriage as a vessel to live out our God-given purpose. And that’s something that is truly the foundation of our marriage and our relationship,” she shared.
Demi expressed her deep gratitude for how their lives aligned. “It’s just so sweet of the Lord to have done that, to have gone before us in such a kind way.” Their shared passion for advocacy, especially for individuals with special needs, has united them in a way that goes beyond romantic love.
“Tim Invited My Sister to Prom, Not Me!”
Their story began in a surprising way—through Demi’s younger sister. It was her sister’s invitation to the “Night to Shine” event, a prom for people with special needs founded by Tim Tebow’s foundation, that eventually led Demi to Tim.
“I didn’t know football at all, so I’d never heard of Tim Tebow before,” Demi admitted with a laugh. “But I had heard of ‘Night to Shine,’ which is a worldwide program for people with special needs and disabilities—just like my sister.”. The values that Night to Shine represented touched Demi’s heart and through that connection she and Tim began talking.
“I joke and say, Tim invited my little sister to prom, and not me!” she shared, revealing the light-hearted side of their story. Their connection through this event laid the groundwork for a relationship built on mutual values and a deep love for serving others.
A shared purpose can bring depth, meaning and unity to your marriage.
“A Shared Passion for Advocacy”
Both Demi and Tim hearts break for those who are vulnerable. “The Lord had given me such a sweet, special gift through my sister and had broken my heart for people like my sister around the world. And long before Tim and I met, Tim’s heart had been broken for people like my sister,” she explained. (00:08:20 – 00:09:12)
They see their marriage as a means to live out God’s calling, using their platforms to support those in need. Whether through “Night to Shine” or other initiatives, they are constantly looking for ways to make a difference.
For you, this could mean reflecting on what passions you and your spouse share. Are there causes or communities that you both feel drawn to? A shared purpose can bring depth and meaning to your relationship, uniting you in ways that go beyond daily routines.
“Presence Over Perfection”
Demi recounted an early experience in their marriage when she was striving to create the perfect environment for their guests. “We just had people over at our home, which felt like all the time, the whole day, every day. And eventually, I was like, ‘Tim, I am tired of cleaning the house and making sure it’s perfect. This feels like a full-time job.'”
Focus on what truly matters: being there for those you love.
Tim’s response was simple yet significant: “Demi, you don’t have to be perfect; just be present.” His statement made Demi realize what truly matters. “People appreciate that so much more. This is the moment—don’t miss this moment right in front of you.”
How often do we strive for perfection in our homes, our lives, and our relationships, when all that is really needed is our presence? Focus on what truly matters: being there for those you love, even if everything isn’t picture-perfect.
Demi and Tim go beyond supporting each other’s dreams—they actively work together to bring God’s love to the world.
If you’re married or in a committed relationship, consider how you can do the same. What passions do you and your partner share? How can you work together to make a difference in your community or the world? Marriage is about living out a greater calling together. Whether you’re married or hoping to be one day, we hope Demi’s story inspires you to find and live out your own God-given purpose, together.
More on this topic is available in Demi’s recently released book, “A Crown that Lasts: You Are Not Your Label.”
Check out more from our conversation with Demi: Why Self Confidence Falls Short, Feeling Stuck, Feeling Lost after Success, Ready to Overcome Trauma?
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