A Little God Time for Couples E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Serie: A Little God Time
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 422

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2017

Beschreibung

Spending quality time together as a couple can be difficult, but it's incredibly important for maintaining a healthy marriage! One of the best ways to strengthen your relationship is to spend time together with God. This devotional offers fresh insight on relationships, encouraging Scriptures, thought-provoking questions, and inspirational prayers to help you intentionally engage with God and each other. Whether you have been married for five days, five years, or a lifetime, a little God time is the ultimate way to begin or end your day together. 

Leseprobe

BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC.

Racine, Wisconsin, USA

Broadstreetpublishing.com

A LITTLE GOD TIME FOR COUPLES

© 2017 by BroadStreet Publishing

ISBN 978-1-4245-5368-6 (hardcover)

ISBN 978-1-4245-5369-3 (ebook)

Devotional entries composed by Janelle Anthony Breckell, Michelle Cox, Diane Dahlen, Nedra Dugan, Shawn Dugan, Linda Gilden, Mike & Sharon Harris, Carol Hatcher, and Brenda Scott.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Scripture quotations marked (NCV) are taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NASB) are taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. Lockman.org. Scripture quotations marked (NRSV) are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NKJV) are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Design by Chris Garborg | garborgdesign.com

Compiled and edited by Michelle Winger, Diane Dahlen, Sarah Rickertsen, and Janelle Breckell.

Printed in China.

17 18 19 20 21 22 23   7 6 5 4 3 2 1

MANY WATERS

CANNOT

QUENCH LOVE;

RIVERS CANNOT

SWEEP IT AWAY.

SONG OF SONGS 8:7 NIV

Contents

Introduction

January

January 1: Resolutions

January 2: True Wealth

January 3: Being Quiet

January 4: Just for Me

January 5: Overflow of Kindness

January 6: Learn from the Experienced

January 7: Honoring Parents

January 8: Not All about Me

January 9: Work Ethic

January 10: Bearing Fruit

January 11: A Clear Guide

January 12: Tender Hearts

January 13: Waiting Quietly

January 14: Our Fortress

January 15: Love Covers Us

January 16: Perfect Example

January 17: Truly Amazing

January 18: The More Important One

January 19: Less of Me

January 20: A Racing Partner

January 21: No Callouses

January 22: A Loving Rebuke

January 23: Peace Through Laws

January 24: Servant’s Heart

January 25: Sharing

January 26: Extending a Hand

January 27: Sharing Eternity

January 28: Careful Words

January 29: Precious Promise

January 30: Part of the Equation

January 31: Better Days?

February

February 1: Ruling a Kingdom

February 2: Openness in Love

February 3: Who’s in Your Inner Circle?

February 4: Building a House

February 5: Your God-positioning System

February 6: A Cup of Cold Water

February 7: Unmerited Favor

February 8: Shining Through the Golden Rule

February 9: Changing Together in Christ

February 10: Pruning from the Master Gardener

February 11: Kid at Heart; Mature in Love

February 12: Artist, Builder, Writer

February 13: Better Balance

February 14: Everyday Sweetness

February 15: Don’t Look Back

February 16: Wisdom Granted

February 17: Knitted Together

February 18: Refried Beans and Puppies

February 19: Rejoicing in Suffering

February 20: Pleasing Presence

February 21: Harmony at Home

February 22: Mind Reading

February 23: Open Your Pantry

February 24: Put on an Apron

February 25: Tithing Time

February 26: Supporting Others

February 27: Honest Communication

February 28: Little White Lie

March

March 1: Ask for Wisdom

March 2: Eternal Futures

March 3: Christ’s Hope in Marriage

March 4: It’s All about Me

March 5: Godly Pride

March 6: Crushing Conceit

March 7: The Us in Focus

March 8: Tears of Laughter

March 9: People of Integrity

March 10: Yes and No

March 11: Follow Me

March 12: Many Advisers

March 13: Home among the Wise

March 14: Displays of Affection

March 15: Marked by the Maker

March 16: Celebrate Often

March 17: Eternal Blessing

March 18: Good Work

March 19: Do Your Gift Well

March 20: Let Him Take Over

March 21: Family Support

March 22: Continual

March 23: Strength in Numbers

March 24: Up-words

March 25: Wounding Words

March 26: What Is Better?

March 27: Our Safe Place

March 28: Keep the Dam Shut!

March 29: Conquering the Quest for Power

March 30: Collected Baggage

March 31: Deep Yearnings

April

April 1: Way of Fools

April 2: Speak Good, Do Good

April 3: Ask for Directions!

April 4: Gracious Homes

April 5: Jesus’ Habits

April 6: Keep the Peace

April 7: Practice Love

April 8: Humble Arguments

April 9: Surviving the Droughts

April 10: Considered Conversations

April 11: Nearsighted

April 12: Received

April 13: Using Your Gifts

April 14: Schedule Shifts

April 15: Attentiveness

April 16: Understanding

April 17: Cause and Effect

April 18: Peeking in at Heaven’s Door

April 19: Set in Stone

April 20: Combat Loneliness

April 21: The Passion in Compassion

April 22: Yoked Forces

April 23: Choosing Contentment

April 24: Deserve-o-meters

April 25: Unchain Your Past

April 26: Sublime Unity

April 27: A Command and a Promise

April 28: Overflowing

April 29: A Guard at the Door

April 30: Full Acceptance

May

May 1: Walking with Integrity

May 2: Be a Builder

May 3: Be Strong and Courageous

May 4: Become like Jesus

May 5: Hear and Obey

May 6: Boast in the Lord

May 7: Come Boldly

May 8: Eternal Contentment

May 9: Getting Advice

May 10: Give Generously

May 11: God Is for You

May 12: Growing Up

May 13: Humble Harmony

May 14: Iron Bars

May 15: Raphah

May 16: Unquenchable Love

May 17: Love That Will Last

May 18: Loving the World

May 19: Needing Help

May 20: No Pain, No Gain

May 21: Our Safe Place

May 22: Out of the Mouths of Babes

May 23: Roots

May 24: Seasoned with Salt

May 25: Shine like Stars

May 26: Six Short Verbs

May 27: Spiritual Food

May 28: The Freedom of Forgiveness

May 29: The Great Exchange

May 30: The Habit of Prayer

May 31: The Listening Ear

June

June 1: The Perusal

June 2: The School of Hard Knocks

June 3: Time to Seek the Lord

June 4: Two Masters

June 5: Daily Savoring

June 6: Heaven’s Wedding

June 7: Authentic Models

June 8: Open Ears and Tuned Hearts

June 9: Abandoning Self

June 10: Personal Jesus

June 11: Little and Great

June 12: United in Purpose

June 13: Faith and Failure

June 14: Kevlar Vests

June 15: Always Hope

June 16: Joyful Medicine

June 17: Climates of Chaos

June 18: Peace During War

June 19: Teamwork

June 20: Real Success

June 21: Price of Wisdom

June 22: Turn to the Lord

June 23: A Good Reputation

June 24: Cultivating Patience

June 25: Created with Purpose

June 26: God Delights in You

June 27: God’s Orchestra

June 28: Tuned Together

June 29: Value above Worry

June 30: Fierce Peace

July

July 1: Growing in Love

July 2: Winning Teams

July 3: Keep Romance Alive

July 4: Better than Fireworks

July 5: Peace in Humility

July 6: Heavenly Songs

July 7: Not Where, but How

July 8: Grace Agents

July 9: Love in God’s Strength

July 10: Sprouting Seeds

July 11: Quiet Anticipation

July 12: Shooting from the Lip

July 13: Data Waves and Captive Thoughts

July 14: The Fruit of Kindness

July 15: Heavenly Comfort

July 16: Speak in Love

July 17: Distinctly Unique

July 18: Bumps in the Road

July 19: Together in Grief

July 20: Be an Encourager

July 21: Love Always

July 22: Couple Friends

July 23: God Decision

July 24: Serving Together

July 25: Gratitude Always

July 26: A Good Habit

July 27: Happy Days

July 28: Rejoice Always

July 29: Lies Are Lies

July 30: Letting Go of the Past

July 31: Devoted to Prayer

August

August 1: Combined Talents

August 2: Ask the Teacher

August 3: Billions of Cells

August 4: Stressful Marathons

August 5: Morning Conversations

August 6: Just Stay Calm

August 7: Safe and Secure

August 8: Stepping Away

August 9: Clothed in Righteousness

August 10: First-world Blessings

August 11: Triumphant Wisdom

August 12: First Instincts

August 13: Standards of Love

August 14: A Good, Clean Argument

August 15: Testing God’s Patience

August 16: Two Paths

August 17: What Is Judgment?

August 18: Unveiled

August 19: Rewards

August 20: Our Father’s House

August 21: Eternal or Temporary Happiness?

August 22: A Vow to God

August 23: Mentoring Couple

August 24: Wisdom

August 25: Just Passing Through

August 26: Effective Counsel

August 27: Bringing Calm

August 28: Unbidden Words

August 29: You Have a Gift!

August 30: Good Steps

August 31: A Ball of Yarn

September

September 1: Job’s Heart

September 2: The Little Things

September 3: Inexplicable Joy

September 4: When Loving Is Difficult

September 5: The Fruit Basket

September 6: Incomprehensible Goodness

September 7: Genuine Love

September 8: A Record of Rights

September 9: Rekindle the Flame

September 10: The Song of Encouragement

September 11: Is Your Cup Half Empty?

September 12: The Challenge of Discipline

September 13: Planting Seeds

September 14: Always a Child

September 15: The Long Haul

September 16: Time Marches On

September 17: The Waiting Game

September 18: The Control Factor

September 19: Personality Clashes

September 20: Getting Along

September 21: Smart People

September 22: Faithful in Prayer

September 23: Beyond the List

September 24: No Fear of Bad News

September 25: An Open Prayer Line

September 26: Chase after God

September 27: First, Run to God

September 28: The God Priority

September 29: Lens of Love

September 30: Reflections of Christ

October

October 1: Work in Progress

October 2: Life Adventures

October 3: Thinking of You

October 4: Eternal Authority

October 5: Foresight

October 6: Best Friends

October 7: What You Bring

October 8: Stormy Waters

October 9: Cheerful Fountains

October 10: Understanding

October 11: Comfort During Stress

October 12: Cannonball Commitment

October 13: Scrambled Lines

October 14: The Great Need

October 15: Couples in a Crowd

October 16: Pedestals

October 17: Dances and Burdens

October 18: Chosen in Love

October 19: One in Trouble

October 20: Soldiers Together

October 21: Pure Ingredients

October 22: God’s Riches

October 23: Sacrificial Love

October 24: Price of Wealth

October 25: Supporting Role

October 26: Finding Flaws

October 27: A New Worldview

October 28: Submit in Love

October 29: 60/40

October 30: Blessed by Trust

October 31: Celebrating Success

November

November 1: Mr. & Mrs. Reliable

November 2: Crumbs and Toothpaste

November 3: Unequally Yoked

November 4: Chocolate or Strawberry?

November 5: Without a Rudder

November 6: Uprooting Bitterness

November 7: Fliers and Bases

November 8: Semper Fidelis

November 9: Light in a Dark Room

November 10: No Room for Pride

November 11: Leaving Your Comfort Zone

November 12: Crunching on Ice

November 13: Covered with Love

November 14: Magic Words

November 15: A Love That Endures

November 16: The Benefits of Generosity

November 17: Trusting Together

November 18: A Worthy Principle

November 19: Sharing Difficulties

November 20: Top Needs

November 21: Acceptable Words

November 22: Cultivate Thankfulness

November 23: Giving up Being Right

November 24: Offering the Olive Branch

November 25: Times of Separation

November 26: Glad for Today

November 27: The Magic Words

November 28: His Faithfulness

November 29: Blessing of Hospitality

November 30: Showing Mercy

December

December 1: Forbearance

December 2: Blessed Through Respect

December 3: The Team on the Field

December 4: Consulting the Lord

December 5: Sleep on It

December 6: Complementary

December 7: Holding the Mirror

December 8: Team Huddle

December 9: Choral Methods

December 10: Refreshing Water

December 11: God from Eternity

December 12: Rooted in Christ

December 13: Everlasting and Unfailing

December 14: Pouring Salt in a Wound

December 15: Sharpening Iron

December 16: Prayer of Blessing

December 17: Place of Peace

December 18: Unlimited Forgiveness

December 19: Gentle Rain

December 20: Fixed Thoughts

December 21: Important Instructions

December 22: Hidden Word

December 23: A Sweet Gift

December 24: Spiritual Traditions

December 25: The Gift of Marriage

December 26: Well Equipped

December 27: The Word

December 28: Consider the Creator

December 29: Rule Followers

December 30: Building on the Foundation

December 31: Dedicated to God

INTRODUCTION

One of the best ways to strengthen your relationship and fill your day with hope and joy is to spend time together with God.

Engage with God and each other as you ponder the words and Scripture in each devotion. Use the questions for healthy reflection and encouragement toward positive change. Closing prayers will help you submit your hearts and day to God.

May your marriage be blessed as you spend a little God time together each day!

JANUARY

“For I am about to do something

new. See, I have already begun!

Do you not see it? I will make a

pathway through the wilderness.

I will create rivers in the dry

wasteland.”

ISAIAH 43:19 NLT

JANUARY 1

RESOLUTIONS

I will give heed to the blameless way.

When will you come to me?

I will walk within my house in the integrity of my heart.

I will set no worthless thing before my eyes;

I hate the work of those who fall away;

It shall not fasten its grip on me.

PSALM 101: 2-3 NASB

Many of us make annual New Year’s resolutions, only to abandon them while the year is still young. The resolutions are usually great goals, but we lack the willpower to keep them. In Psalm 101, King David speaks boldly about his resolve to govern his kingdom and his home with integrity and righteousness.

Have you considered making the same declarations for your home and your marriage? Would your behavior, attitudes, words, and choice of movies and entertainment change? Would you be more mindful of keeping your word and be less influenced by the world? We know that determination alone cannot carry us, but David knew that too. He could make these bold statements because he knew that God was loving, kind, fair, and dependable. God is the real power behind resolutions.

Are the two of you willing to make David’s resolutions your own? How can you walk with integrity in every area of your life?

Lord, we know that all the good intentions in the world are not enough. We want our lives and our home to be free of sin and filled with your righteousness.

JANUARY 2

TRUE WEALTH

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him;

fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way,

over the man who carries out evil devices!

PSALM 37: 7 ESV

Have you and your spouse ever been in a situation where it seems like everyone else is prospering more than you? You’ve watched your friends wear their stilettos or power suits as they climbed the corporate ladder. You’ve seen photos from their exotic trips. And you’ve visited their gorgeous homes complete with fancy cars and gleaming boats in the garage. Meanwhile at your house, you’re stretching the budget by eating beans and rice. Your cheap car is falling apart, and your home needs repairs.

Sometimes it’s hard not to be envious. It’s often difficult to understand when you’re trying to serve God and your friends aren’t. That’s when we’re wise to be still before God and to share our hearts with him. When we stop to think about it, we realize that we’re the ones who are truly blessed. Our homes might be humble, but they’re happy. Our trips might not be expensive, but they’re filled with laughter and love. Our riches aren’t in our possessions—they’re in each other.

What makes you truly wealthy? When’s the last time you thought about how rich you are to have each other?

Lord, help us to realize our true wealth lies in each other. Thank you for blessing us.

JANUARY 3

BEING QUIET

Be angry, and do not sin;

ponder in your own hearts on your beds,

and be silent.

PSALM 4: 4 ESV

It’s easy to get mad at our spouses. They hurt us and make us more mad than anyone else—because they’re the closest to our hearts. It’s a gift of love when we bite back the angry words and stay quiet instead. And it’s an even bigger gift when we take the time to look inside the hearts of our spouses and think about ways we can love them more.

We come to marriage with suitcases packed with all the baggage of our pasts. Scars of our past carry into our marriage and affect us in many ways. A wise husband or wife will ponder those things, looking for ways to help heal old hurts and gaining a better understanding of why their spouses react as they do.

What scars did you bring to your marriage? Have you discussed them with your spouse?

Lord, help us to be kind and loving. Keep anger from our relationship, and help us work to understand each other better.

JANUARY 4

JUST FOR ME

You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.

REVELATION 4: 11 NIV

When you wake up and look at your spouse do you see bed head or smell morning breath and think, What have I done? Or do you thank God for making your spouse just for you. God created each individual, and even though we are different and flawed, the greatest thing about our mates is they are uniquely ours by God’s design.

Respecting God’s creation for you is essential. You may have a few choice things to say about bed head, fingernail-biting, snoring, stinky feet, and more, but because you love and respect your spouse, you never say those things outside of the home. In public, you should respect and praise your mate openly. When you do, you are honoring God as well. Keep the jokes and jibes about flaws between the two of you.

When was the last time you told your spouse you loved him or her despite any flaws or shortcomings?

Lord, teach us to love each other as you love us. Help us to cover each other’s flaws by keeping them to ourselves.

JANUARY 5

OVERFLOW OF KINDNESS

Show respect for all people: Love the brothers and sisters of God’s family, respect God, honor the king.

1 PETER 2: 17 NCV

Nancy watched Gary pull off the road. She knew he spotted the car ahead. An elderly lady was in the driver’s seat. She was crying. “Ma’am,” said Gary, “do you need help?” She looked at him and nodded. She was too upset to speak. Nancy looked at her husband of five years. She loved his tender side so much. He was always looking out for others. If he saw someone in need, he was the first to stop and offer help.

Nancy felt blessed to have a man who loved and respected others. That part of his character transferred to their marriage. He was such a gentleman and respected her in every way. She had friends who weren’t as lucky. Every time she saw those friends with their husbands she said an extra prayer of thanks for Gary. His relationship with God was what drew her to him. Because his relationship with God was strong, God’s love flowed through him in everything.

Can your spouse say that your relationship with God overflows in all you do?

Lord, thank you that your love is the greatest love. Show us how to let your love flow through us.

JANUARY 6

LEARN FROM THE EXPERIENCED

Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the Lord.

LEVITICUS 19: 32 NIV

One of the greatest blessings about extended family is the opportunity to learn from those who have more experience than you. Many young couples are fortunate enough to have parents or grandparents who have been married fifty years or longer. Being in the presence of those enduring marriages gives others a chance to learn the secrets of making marriage last. Looking at couples who have been married a long time, you can see the love on their faces accompanied by the lines and wrinkles of experience.

As you build your marriage, draw from the tried and true wisdom of others. Copy the good things you see. Visit with those you respect and make note of their wisdom. God will bless your marriage and strengthen it when you do.

Are there those in your family who have been married a long time? Take them out to dinner and soak up their wisdom.

Lord, thank you that we can learn from others who have gone before us.

JANUARY 7

HONORING PARENTS

“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”

EXODUS 20: 12 NIV

God set up marriage as an institution where a man and a woman would leave their parents and start their own families. That doesn’t mean that God wants us to forget about our parents—and he promises there are big benefits in honoring them. A smart couple will avail themselves of the wisdom their parents have accumulated over the years. They’ll ask for and listen to sage advice that will keep them from making mistakes they don’t have to make.

A wise couple will set aside time to go see their parents, to call them, or to lend a helping hand whenever needed. As the years go by and their parents begin to need assistance, husbands and wives should honor the lifetime of love and care their parents gave them by returning the favor. God says that if we’ll honor our parents, we’ll live long in the land. Let’s determine that we’ll look back with sweet memories instead of regrets.

How can you honor your mother and father? Do you carve time out of your schedule to be with them?

Lord, give us hearts of compassion for our parents. Help us to honor them.

JANUARY 8

NOT ALL ABOUT ME

Each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

EPHESIANS 5: 33 NIV

I don’t think any of us would argue with the fact that we love ourselves. We plan what makes us happy. We buy our favorite foods. We head for the most comfortable chair and turn the television stations to our favorite shows. Loving ourselves is easy. We say that we love our spouses and other people, but if we don’t watch it, that all-about-me mindset will creep in and take over.

What if we put as much effort into loving our spouses? True love gives up the comfortable chair—and the (gasp!) remote. True love picks the restaurant our spouse loves even though we don’t really like the food there. True love says, “You are the most important thing in the world to me—even more important than me.” And something special happens as a result of that. The love that’s given away returns to us in a bigger portion, and it’s wrapped in respect from a spouse who feels loved and valued.

How does it make you feel when you do something special for your spouse? How long has it been since you’ve done that?

Lord, help me to put my spouse’s interests before my own. I acknowledge that life isn’t all about me, and I want my spouse to see that reflected in my words and actions.

JANUARY 9

WORK ETHIC

In all the work you are doing, work the best you can. Work as if you were doing it for the Lord, not for people.

COLOSSIANS 3: 23 NCV

Even though we don’t begrudge working to support our families because we love them, it’s easy to become weary along the way. And sometimes when the drudgery of life piles on us, we end up not doing our best. We have a responsibility to do our very best. Little eyes are watching us, and it’s especially important that we set a good example.

A good work ethic will make a huge difference in our homes and at our work places. Our attitudes make the biggest difference, especially if we work as if we are doing it for God. If he is pleased with our efforts, it’s guaranteed that our spouses and bosses will be as well. There’s a special joy that is experienced when we work to please God. Can you imagine how different our homes would be if that were the standard for all of our responsibilities?

How can our attitudes affect our work? What difference does it make when we do things as to the Lord?

Lord, help us to do our best for you. Help us to fulfill the responsibilities that you have for us to accomplish, and cause us to do so joyfully.

JANUARY 10

BEARING FRUIT

We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.

COLOSSIANS 1: 9-10 NIV

There’s something beautiful about an apple orchard when the fruit grows and ripens on the trees. Bright green leaves and branches laden with glossy red fruit present a charming vignette and the hope of apple pies, jelly, and fresh applesauce. There’s also something beautiful about our lives and marriages when we bear fruit spiritually, continuing to grow in the knowledge of God.

A wise couple will ask the Lord for wisdom and understanding. They’ll listen to the whispers of God, and their goal will be to please him in every way. It’s a goal for each of us personally, but when we have the opportunity to observe our spouses as they grow more like Jesus, it’s inspiring. And that provides a sweet hope for the future.

What can you do as a couple to help each other grow in Christ? How does it make you feel to see your spouse serving God?

Father, we want to grow in you so that we can serve you more as a couple. Help us to accept and nurture that responsibility.

JANUARY 11

A CLEAR GUIDE

The Lord has told you what is good,

and this is what he requires of you:

to do what is right, to love mercy,

and to walk humbly with your God.

MICAH 6: 8 NLT

Fortunately, as Christians, we don’t have to question what God requires of us. He has written it in the Bible. We have a plan book that shows us the way and gives us specific instructions on how to live right, love mercy, and walk with God. Any time we question the right thing for us to do, we can search the Scriptures and find the answer.

That same principle applies to marriage. When we must make a decision, we need to search the Bible and pray and ask God for answers. Responsibilities increase with the marriage vows. But the source of knowledge remains unchanging. God always has the answers if we will just turn to him to find them.

Do you have a big decision looming? Have you asked God what to do about it?

Father, thank you that you are always available to give us wisdom. Help us put our trust in you.

JANUARY 12

TENDER HEARTS

This is how we know that we belong to the truth and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence.

1 JOHN 3: 19 NIV

Love is how we set our hearts at rest in God’s presence. In the same way that Jesus gave his life for us, we should be willing to do likewise for our spouses. When God blesses us with material possessions, that’s awesome, but we should also have hearts that are tender toward others who are in need. One unexpected benefit about having a generous heart is that when our spouses see our love in action, it makes them love us even more.

It’s great to express our love with words—and that’s vital in a marriage—but when we put that love into action, it’s powerful. We can’t out-give God. It seems that the more we give away, the more we love each other, and the more God blesses us and our homes. Determine as a couple to love others and to help whenever you can. You’ll never regret it.

How can you put your love into action? How does it make you feel when you see your spouse being loving and kind to someone else?

Lord, help us to love like you do. Give us hearts that are loving and generous.

JANUARY 13

WAITING QUIETLY

Let all that I am wait quietly before God,

for my hope is in him.

PSALM 62: 5 NLT

This verse sounds so simple, but most of us have trouble actually putting it into action. When hard times come, we try to fix things ourselves. When our spouse is hurting, we try to ease the pain. We want instant replies to our prayers. We want answers. But sometimes God says, “Wait.” Ouch. That’s so hard for all of us “I want it now!” folks.

A wise husband or wife will learn the art of waiting quietly before God. Set aside a block of time. Go outside in God’s creation if that’s a possibility. Play some praise music. Spend some time in God’s Word, and then have some “be still” time where you pray, “Father, I’m here and I want to hear from you. Whisper to my heart what you want to say to me.” There’s something special about worship, about taking time to spend with God. And even though the tough times often don’t change, there’s hope in him and rest for our souls. And that’s a good thing.

Do you have a hard time waiting quietly on God? How can you and your spouse spend more time with God in this manner?

Lord, help us to rest in you. Bless our marriage and help us to wait quietly before you.

JANUARY 14

OUR FORTRESS

Truly my soul finds rest in God;

my salvation comes from him.

Truly he is my rock and my salvation;

he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.

PSALM 62: 1-2 NIV

When we were children, many of us had a play fort where we took refuge from the bad guys who were after us. Usually, we’d be under attack, and then just as things were going south, a hero would sweep in and save the day. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a similar option as married couples: a fortress where we could take refuge from all the hard times in our lives? Sounds great, doesn’t it? If we pause to think about it, we really do have a fortress—the best fortress ever—Jesus.

Jesus loved us so much he gave his life for us. He promises rest for our souls. He’s our rock and our strong shield, and when we commit our lives and our marriages to him, we won’t be shaken by life. So next time difficult or scary circumstances arrive, let’s remember to head to our fortress.

What does it mean to you to know that you have a fortress in God? How can that impact your marriage?

Lord, thank you for giving us rest for our souls and for being our fortress during difficult times.

JANUARY 15

LOVE COVERS US

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.

1 PETER 4: 8 NIV

Stuart looked up at the ceiling. How long am I going to lay here listening to Brigit snore? he thought. It was the same thing every night. Brigit’s head hit the pillow and she was asleep. Asleep and snoring. Some nights Stuart lay in the bed for hours fussing to himself about her snoring that was keeping him awake. Tonight was different. Stuart decided that instead of focusing on Brigit’s snoring, he was going to count his blessings and spend whatever time he was awake thanking God for his beautiful wife.

Snoring is only one of the things husbands and wives have to deal with when they are first married. There are things that are much more important in the scope of life. But the love God gives to a husband and wife covers many things and allows the couple to live in harmony.

If your spouse snores, or does something else that really bothers you, can you make a point to be thankful for them instead of complaining?

Lord, thank you that your love covers a lot of things and allows us to live peaceably with one another.

JANUARY 16

PERFECT EXAMPLE

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.

EPHESIANS 5: 25 NIV

The Bible tells us to love our wives just as he loves the church. Wow, those are some impossible shoes to fill—but we can give it our best effort, and God never requires more than our best. So what are some of the biblical traits of a good husband? He’s willing to leave his mother and father to build a home with his wife. He’s patient—even when his wife scuffs the tires for the third time. There’s no ego involved. He’s humble and gentle. He isn’t easily provoked. He teaches with love. He’s trustworthy.

A godly husband works hard to mature in Christ. He loves his wife so much that he overlooks her shortcomings and mistakes, and he’d even give his life for her. Whatever he does, he does with love, and he never thinks evil about her. This is what you can become when you other as God loves you.

What can you do to love your spouse as Christ loved the church? What are two specific things you can do today?

Father, you’ve shown us the perfect example of love. Help us to love our spouses like that.

JANUARY 17

TRULY AMAZING

There are three things that amaze me—no, four things that I don’t understand: how an eagle glides through the sky, how a snake slithers on a rock, how a ship navigates the ocean, how a man loves a woman.

PROVERBS 30: 18-19 NLT

Have you ever thought about the majesty of God’s creation and how that applies to marriage? Think about how the eagle glides through the sky. It’s poetry in motion, a visible reminder of God’s strength and power. Think about a snake. How does it slither across rough rocks without its skin being damaged or without falling? That’s God and his amazing design skills.

Think about the ocean, such a vast expanse of water that stretches in such unimaginable distances. Yet a ship can navigate those waters, trusting the maps that chart its course. All of that is truly amazing, but there’s one more thing that defies description—how a man loves a woman… and vice versa. If the love of a man and wife is one of God’s most amazing creations, shouldn’t we do everything in our power to make it thrive?

Have you ever thought about how amazing it is that you and your spouse love each other? Talk about ways you can protect your marriage.

Lord, you are an amazing God. Thank you for creating the precious gift of marriage.

JANUARY 18

THE MORE IMPORTANT ONE

Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous, it does not brag, and it is not proud.

1 CORINTHIANS 13: 4 NCV

There’s something built inside us that makes us want to brag: “Look what I did!” But what if we spent more time bragging about our spouses than we did about ourselves? That’s where true love comes in. When we pay attention to others—especially our spouses—that means we’re taking our eyes off ourselves.

Love is patient and kind. It’s about giving up our own will for someone we love more. And it’s not just about being there for our spouses during hard times, but also celebrating with and for them in good times—with no jealousy involved. What if God had been selfish? What if he’d said, “My life is more important than yours?” But he didn’t, and wise husbands and wives will make it a goal to follow his example to love their spouses more than themselves.

What tangible thing could you do today to love your spouse more than yourself? What do you need to change?

Lord, help us follow your example. Help us to love our sweethearts more than we love ourselves.

JANUARY 19

LESS OF ME

“I can do nothing on my own. I judge as God tells me. Therefore, my judgment is just, because I carry out the will of the one who sent me, not my own will.”

JOHN 5: 30 NLT

Husbands and wives often have great goals, but it usually doesn’t take long for us to realize that our power to achieve those goals lies in God. We can’t do anything without him. He is the source of our strength, and yet this all-powerful God is in love with us. His heart is touched when we want to do his will, when the desires of our hearts are to serve him.

When we seek to serve him our own desires are being put on the back-burner where they should be. It means less of self, and that’s a good thing! In a home where a husband and wife are committed to doing God’s will together and putting their spouse’s needs before their own, the relationship will thrive.

How can you be more selfless in your relationship with your husband or wife? How does it impact you when you see your spouse being selfless?

Father, help there to be less of self in my life and more of you. Remind me to put my spouse’s needs and desires before my own.

JANUARY 20

A RACING PARTNER

Since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.

HEBREWS 12: 1 NLT

Many of us have lots of possessions. Our homes are filled with way more than our basic necessities, and often our basements, garages, and sheds are crammed full of all the extras. But sometimes “things” can weigh us down. The more possessions we have, the more things there are to care for, and what was once a blessing can become a burden as it takes time away from our spouses and families.

God advises us to get rid of the things that slow us down—especially those sins that can trip us up and cause problems in our homes. He looks at our lives as a race, and when we got married, he even gave us a racing partner. Just as runners prepare, couples need to condition their hearts by spending time in prayer and in God’s Word. Be sensitive to his instructions, and run the race of life with endurance.

What things are weighing you down? How can that keep you from serving God?

Lord, help us to cast off the things that will slow us down from serving you. Help us to finish the race together.

JANUARY 21

NO CALLOUSES

“For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.”

MATTHEW 13: 15 NIV

Have you ever been somewhere that was so loud you couldn’t hear what your spouse was saying? Or somewhere the sun was so bright you had to close your eyes? Do you know that we sometimes do the same thing with God? He tries to communicate with us, but we’ve allowed our hearts to become calloused, and we close our ears or shut our eyes so we don’t have to hear what he wants to tell us.

But if we want our homes and marriages to be healed, we have to be sensitive to his voice, we have to turn away from the things that he doesn’t want us to do, and we have to give our hearts permission to understand. Let’s determine that we will work to keep our hearts soft and sensitive to him.

How can our hearts become calloused? How does that affect our marriages?

Lord, we don’t want our hearts to be calloused toward you. Give us eyes that see and ears that hear so we’ll understand your instructions.

JANUARY 22

A LOVING REBUKE

Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you;

rebuke the wise and they will love you.

PROVERBS 9: 8 NIV

Rebuke is not a very modern word. But it is a strong word. There is nothing weak or pleasant about being rebuked. To be reprimanded in an angry or negative way can be devastating, especially to a sensitive person. When someone you love does something out of line, gentle, loving correction is a much better way. If you need a reminder you have overstepped boundaries, appreciate the one who loves you enough to bring you back into line.

We count on our mates for many things. Many are fun. But one of the things we need to be assured of is that our spouses will let us know when we need correction. Love will permeate the correction as we help our mates grow to become better people. Coming from one who loves us more than anyone else in the world, it makes us feel secure and helps to diminish feelings of rebellion and sensitivity.

Have you ever been rebuked by your mate? Discuss those times and why it was easier coming from him or her.

Lord, thank you for a spouse who loves me enough to help me become a better person.

JANUARY 23

PEACE THROUGH LAWS

Great peace have those who love your law;

nothing can make them stumble.

PSALM 119: 165 NRSV

Peace is a wonderful thing to have in a marriage, but it’s often hard to achieve. God promises that if we’ll love his law, we’ll have great peace. When our hearts are sensitive to him and to what he wants us to do, it will keep us from stumbling, and that will keep us from harming the ones we love.

God gave us his law for a reason—not because he wants to rule over us with an iron fist, but because there are consequences when we don’t. Those commandments are guard rails for our lives. We can’t choose one here and one there and make it work. We must obey all of them. Our attitudes can make a big difference. There’s joy in the journey when we have willing hearts that want to obey his laws. And there will be a sweet and amazing peace in our homes when two hearts are united in pleasing God.

Why is it important for us to love God’s laws? How will keeping them impact our marriages?

Lord, help us to keep your laws. Help us to have willing hearts that obey you. Keep us from stumbling.

JANUARY 24

SERVANT’S HEART

He sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.”

MARK 9: 35 ESV

Whenever they go out in public, David steps aside when they approach a doorway to allow Addyson to enter first. The same is true if they are in a cafeteria line or waiting to ride at an amusement park. David does that out of love and respect for his wife and as a way of making sure she is well cared for. Addyson knows that David loves her so much that he will put her first in every way.

Bringing a servant’s heart to a marriage is something to be applauded. It is not always easy to put others first, especially in a society that screams, “Me, me, me first!” But when God gives you a mate for life, you must love with a serving kind of love.

Does your spouse put you first in every way? How could you do a better job of putting your spouse first?

Lord, thank you for a spouse to serve you with each day. Help us to serve each other in a way that shows your love.

JANUARY 25

SHARING

If you help the poor, you are lending to the LORD—

and he will repay you!

PROVERBS 19: 17 NLT

Love notes are important in a relationship. One of the fun ways that Doug shows his love to Brenda is with potato chips. Potato chips? Brenda loves the extra crunch you get from a folded chip. There aren’t many in each bag but when Doug finds one, he passes it to Brenda with a smile.

Is there something in your relationship that you share with your spouse that creates a special bond between you? It may not be potato chips, or even food. There may be a household chore that you know your mate prefers not to do. When you pitch in, the load becomes lighter and the job becomes fun when you do it together. As a married couple you share many things, both good and bad. The greatest thing you can share is a common love of God and the commitment to putting him first in all things.

What is your favorite thing to share with your sweetheart?

Father, thank you for the blessing of sharing everything with my wonderful mate.

JANUARY 26

EXTENDING A HAND

Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?

ISAIAH 58: 6-7 NIV

Early marriage brings challenges: making ends meet, adjusting to life as a couple, combining two sets of family values into one, and so forth. One question may arise: how do we operate our family and still be able to give to others? For some couples, it seems like there is never enough extra to go around. But God directs us to help others in whatever ways we can. In the beginning it may be small. In time those ways will become bigger.

Find ways to share with others. Gifts of time, good used items, or services are additional things you can do together. If your interests are different, schedule one evening a week to serve in different places. Offer your gifts as a sacrifice to God and enjoy the rewards of serving him.

What would you like to offer to God as an act of service?

God, thank you that we can share what we have with others.

JANUARY 27

SHARING ETERNITY

“Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.”

LUKE 3: 11 NIV

Reality shows are popular on television. One focuses on the subject of hoarding. Most couples hoard in some way. You save things that are duplicates or that you don’t really need. If you are saving things for children or grandchildren, that is not unreasonable. But we have lots of saved things we really don’t need and we probably won’t ever use. Assess the things that fill your closets and share things with someone who needs them. If this is really hard, set a goal of getting rid of just a few things the first time around.

As couples, one of the best things we have to share is our faith. As you pare down and share your material possessions, don’t forget that God’s love within you is the greatest thing you have to share, and there is plenty of it. When you help a friend by sharing an item, share a bit of eternity with them as well.

Do you consider yourself a hoarder? What do you save? Can you make time soon to go through your belongings and share with someone who needs them more?

Lord, thank you that we don’t have to hoard your love. There is plenty for everyone.

JANUARY 28

CAREFUL WORDS

If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever.

1 PETER 4: 11 NIV