Daily Strength for Couples E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2021

Seitenzahl: 398

Beschreibung

You can walk in confidence together when you rely on God to be your strength.   Quality time is important for maintaining a healthy marriage. Be encouraged with truth as you spend time reflecting on these devotions, Scriptures, and prayers together. As you take a moment to connect with each other and with God, you will be filled with his strength and peace.   When you prioritize spending a few moments to grow together in your relationship with God, you will quickly learn that it is the strongest way to begin or end your day. Take courage in God's love for you and be ready to conquer each new day together!  

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BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC.

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BroadStreetPublishing.com

Daily Strength for Couples

© 2021 by BroadStreet Publishing

978-1-4245-6238-1 (faux)

978-1-4245-6239-8 (eBook)

Devotional entries compiled by Michelle Winger.

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. Scripture quotations marked (TPT) are taken from The Passion Translation® of the Holy Bible. Copyright © 2017, 2018 by Passion " Fire Ministries. Used by permission of BroadStreet Publishing. All rights reserved.

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Compiled and edited by Michelle Winger | literallyprecise.com

Printed in China.

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“Love each other deeply, as much as I have loved you.”

JOHN 15:12 TPT

Contents

January

January 1: Resolutions

January 2: Life Adventures

January 3: Thinking of You

January 4: Eternal Authority

January 5: Foresight

January 6: Best Friends

January 7: What You Bring

January 8: Stormy Waters

January 9: Precions

January 10: Understanding

January 11: Hope Overflowing

January 12: Living Sacrifice

January 13: Good Gifts

January 14: The Great Need

January 15: In a Crowd

January 16: Pedestals

January 17: Burdens Lifted

January 18: Futile Flattery

January 19: Comfort in Suffering

January 20: Soldiers Together

January 21: Pure Ingredients

January 22: God’s Riches

January 23: Sacrificial Love

January 24: Price of Wealth

January 25: Supporting Role

January 26: Finding Flaws

January 27: A New Worldview

January 28: Submit in Love

January 29: Devoted in Love

January 30: Blessed by Trust

January 31: Celebrating Success

February

February 1: A Reliable Partner

February 2: Sound Wisdom

February 3: Light and Dark

February 4: The One

February 5: Self-Control

February 6: Uprooting Bitterness

February 7: Life and Peace

February 8: Absolute Peace

February 9: Unfolding

February 10: Preserved

February 11: Comfort Zone

February 12: Safe and Sound

February 13: Heart at Rest

February 14: Everyday Sweetness

February 15: Enduring Love

February 16: Benefits of Generosity

February 17: Trusting Together

February 18: Giving Cheerfully

February 19: Sharing Difficulties

February 20: Right Jealousy

February 21: Know-It-All

February 22: Mind Reading

February 23: Open Your Pantry

February 24: Pure Religion

February 25: Tithing Time

February 26: Supporting Others

February 27: Honest Communication

February 28: Walk in Light

March

March 1: Job’s Heart

March 2: Facing Trouble

March 3: Inexplicable Joy

March 4: Difficult to Love

March 5: The Fruit Basket

March 6: Incomprehensible

March 7: Unafraid

March 8: Replacing Ashes

March 9: Rekindle the Flame

March 10: Our Struggle

March 11: Half Empty Cup

March 12: Discipline Challenge

March 13: Planting Seeds

March 14: Always a Child

March 15: Father of Comfort

March 16: Time Marches On

March 17: The Waiting Game

March 18: Control Factor

March 19: Personality Clashes

March 20: Getting Along

March 21: Smart People

March 22: Faithful in Prayer

March 23: Beyond the List

March 24: No Fear

March 25: Hearts Aligned

March 26: Chase After God

March 27: Run First

March 28: The Priority

March 29: Lens of Love

March 30: New Mercies

March 31: Deep Yearnings

April

April 1: Way of Fools

April 2: Ask the Teacher

April 3: Billions of Cells

April 4: Stressful Marathons

April 5: Shield of Love

April 6: Just Stay Calm

April 7: Safe and Secure

April 8: Stepping Away

April 9: Clothed in Righteousness

April 10: Godly Contentment

April 11: Triumphant Wisdom

April 12: Gentle Answer

April 13: Standards of Love

April 14: A Good Argument

April 15: Testing Patience

April 16: Two Paths

April 17: Judgment

April 18: Children of God

April 19: Rewards

April 20: Meeting Together

April 21: All Is Possible

April 22: Vow to God

April 23: Complementary Couple

April 24: Cherished Wisdom

April 25: Passing Through

April 26: Focus Forward

April 27: Bringing Calm

April 28: Careful Words

April 29: Each Has a Gift

April 30: Good Steps

May

May 1: Growing in Love

May 2: Winning Teams

May 3: Keep Romance Alive

May 4: Like Jesus

May 5: Peace in Humility

May 6: Heavenly Songs

May 7: Not Where but How

May 8: Grace Agents

May 9: Love

May 10: Sprouting Seeds

May 11: Confident Hope

May 12: Make Music

May 13: Captive Thoughts

May 14: Fruit of Kindness

May 15: Heavenly Comfort

May 16: Sleep in Peace

May 17: Distinctly Unique

May 18: Blessed

May 19: Together in Grief

May 20: Be an Encourager

May 21: Love Always

May 22: The Golden Rule

May 23: A God Decision

May 24: Serving Together

May 25: Gratitude Always

May 26: Morning Conversations

May 27: Happy Days

May 28: Rejoice Always

May 29: Steadfast Love

May 30: Letting Go

May 31: Devoted to Prayer

June

June 1: Rest in Love

June 2: Honored

June 3: The Team

June 4: Best Consultant

June 5: The Best Promise

June 6: Brook of Bliss

June 7: Covenant of Love

June 8: Never Alone

June 9: Shield of Salvation

June 10: Undivided

June 11: Temple Work

June 12: Rooted in Christ

June 13: Everlasting and Unfailing

June 14: Pursued by Love

June 15: Sharpening Iron

June 16: Joyful Medicine

June 17: Climates of Chaos

June 18: Heavenly Peace

June 19: Teamwork

June 20: Real Success

June 21: Price of Wisdom

June 22: Fear God

June 23: Good Reputation

June 24: Cultivating Patience

June 25: Created with Purpose

June 26: Delighted in You

June 27: New Command

June 28: Tuned Together

June 29: Value above Worry

June 30: Fierce Peace

July

July 1: With Integrity

July 2: Be a Builder

July 3: Strong and Courageous

July 4: Better than Fireworks

July 5: Hear and Obey

July 6: Boasting

July 7: Come Boldly

July 8: Eternal Contentment

July 9: Getting Advice

July 10: Give Generously

July 11: For You

July 12: Growing Up

July 13: Humble Harmony

July 14: Iron Bars

July 15: Be Still

July 16: Unquenchable Love

July 17: Love that Lasts

July 18: Loving the World

July 19: Needing Help

July 20: Healthy Ways

July 21: Our Safe Place

July 22: Mouths of Babes

July 23: Bitter Roots

July 24: Unwholesome Talk

July 25: Shine Like Stars

July 26: Following

July 27: With God

July 28: Freedom of Forgiveness

July 29: Great Exchange

July 30: Habit of Prayer

July 31: The Listening Ear

August

August 1: Trained for Battle

August 2: Do Good

August 3: Ask for Directions

August 4: Gracions Homes

August 5: Nazarene Neighbors

August 6: Keep the Peace

August 7: Practice Love

August 8: Humble Arguments

August 9: Surviving the Drought

August 10: Considered Conversations

August 11: Nearsighted

August 12: Received

August 13: Creator and Judge

August 14: Bonds of Peace

August 15: Sharing Wisdom

August 16: Understanding

August 17: Cause and Effect

August 18: Praise Wins

August 19: Set in Stone

August 20: Combat Loneliness

August 21: With Passion

August 22: Dissonance

August 23: Choosing Contentment

August 24: Undeserved

August 25: Unchained

August 26: Mine

August 27: Command and Promise

August 28: Overflowing

August 29: A Guard

August 30: Full Acceptance

August 31: Where Wisdom Is

September

September 1: Ask for Wisdom

September 2: Eternal Futures

September 3: Hope and Mercy

September 4: You First

September 5: Pride or Honor

September 6: Ability

September 7: You Before Me

September 8: Tears of Laughter

September 9: People of Integrity

September 10: Yes and No

September 11: Follow Me

September 12: Many Advisers

September 13: Constructive Criticism

September 14: Brotherly Affection

September 15: Maker Marked

September 16: Celebrate Often

September 17: Eternal Blessing

September 18: Good Works

September 19: Unique Gifts

September 20: Power in Weakness

September 21: Family Support

September 22: Continual

September 23: Strength in Numbers

September 24: Encouraging Words

September 25: Words that Wound

September 26: Choose Better

September 27: Our Safe Place

September 28: Breaching a Dam

September 29: Like Honey

September 30: Collected Baggage

October

October 1: Clear Truth

October 2: True Wealth

October 3: Being Quiet

October 4: For Me

October 5: Kindness Overflow

October 6: Learn from Wisdom

October 7: Honoring Parents

October 8: All About Me

October 9: Work Ethic

October 10: Bearing Fruit

October 11: Clear Guide

October 12: A Trustworthy Heart

October 13: Marriage Foundation

October 14: Our Fortress

October 15: Love Covers

October 16: Perfect Example

October 17: Truly Amazing

October 18: More Important

October 19: Less of Me

October 20: Racing Partner

October 21: No Callonses

October 22: Living Rebuke

October 23: Peace through Laws

October 24: Servant’s Heart

October 25: Sharing

October 26: Extending a Hand

October 27: Sharing Eternity

October 28: Careful Words

October 29: Precions Promise

October 30: Part of the Equation

October 31: Better Days

November

November 1: Ruling a Kingdom

November 2: Openness in Life

November 3: Inner Circle

November 4: A Reliable Friend

November 5: God-Positioning System

November 6: Cold Water

November 7: Unmerited Favor

November 8: New Grip

November 9: Blossoming

November 10: Elementary Teaching

November 11: Mature in Love

November 12: Artist, Builder, Writer

November 13: Better Balance

November 14: Joined Together

November 15: Don’t Look Back

November 16: Wisdom Granted

November 17: Knitted Together

November 18: Drink Deeply

November 19: Rejoicing in Suffering

November 20: Pleasing Presence

November 21: Acceptable Words

November 22: Cultivate Thankfulness

November 23: Directing Hearts

November 24: Olive Branch

November 25: Times of Separation

November 26: Glad for Today

November 27: Thankful for You

November 28: Faithfulness

November 29: Blessing of Hospitality

November 30: Showing Mercy

December

December 1: The Perusal

December 2: Hard Knocks

December 3: Seek the Lord

December 4: Two Masters

December 5: Daily Savoring

December 6: Fullness of Joy

December 7: Authentic Models

December 8: Carrying Burdens

December 9: Abandoning Self

December 10: Personal Jesus

December 11: Little and Great

December 12: Differences

December 13: Unswerving Faith

December 14: Guard Your Heart

December 15: Always Hope

December 16: Prayer of Blessing

December 17: Important Things

December 18: Unlimited Forgiveness

December 19: Gentle Rain

December 20: Fixed Thoughts

December 21: Important Instructions

December 22: Hidden Word

December 23: Contrary Living

December 24: As a Baby

December 25: The Messiah

December 26: Perfect Faithfulness

December 27: The Sword

December 28: Consider the Creator

December 29: Rule Followers

December 30: Foundation

December 31: Led by God

Introduction

With your lives moving in fast forward and no known chance of slowing down, finding time to devote to your marriage can seem nearly impossible. Quality time is incredibly important for maintaining a healthy marriage in this quick-paced society where you run (sometimes literally) from errands to appointments to activities and back again.

One of the best ways to strengthen your relationship is to spend time with God—together.

This daily devotional offers inspiring reflections on relationships, encouraging Scriptures, and thought-provoking questions to help you intentionally engage with God and each other. When you prioritize spending a few moments to grow together in your relationship with God, you will quickly learn that it is the best way to begin or end your day.

January

A man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.

GENESIS 2:24 ESV

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?

JANUARY 2

Life Adventures

How blessed is the man whose strength is in You, In whose heart are the highways to Zion!

PSALM 84:5 NASB

Marriage is an adventure. Adventures take us into unknown territories, and so do our relationships. Part of the fun in any adventure is having a companion along for the journey, and nothing could be better than experiencing joyful moments with a sweetheart.

However, adventures come with hazards and unexpected moments that threaten to wreck our trips. Life adventures deal with unexpected heartache, health problems, and financial difficulties. Where do we turn when life’s trip takes a bad turn? Tour guides lead and advise travelers on their adventures, and we have the ultimate guide in God. When troubles disrupt the adventure, he sees clearly our path, and he will provide the necessary tools for the journey.

What are some adventures that we can do together for God? What have we learned from life adventure disruptions, and how can we use those moments to draw closer to each other?

JANUARY 3

Thinking of You

God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus.

PHILIPPIANS 1:8 NASB

Built into each of us is a craving for love and affection, and that longing is important in our relationships. God set the standard for perfect love, inspiring us with his example. But it’s easy to get busy or preoccupied as responsibilities claim our attention. Forgetting to express affection creates a void in our marriages.

Marriage needs all kinds of affection. Physical touch is vital; hugs and kisses say, “You are the most special person on earth to me.” And it’s important to hear the words I love you each day. Try writing a quick note to leave by your spouse’s morning coffee cup. Send flowers just because, or a text that says, “Thinking of you.” As God beautifully shares his love with us, we can become extensions of his loving hands and heart and share that love with the partner he’s given us.

How do you feel when your sweetheart is affectionate toward you? What can you do to be more loving to your spouse?

JANUARY 4

Eternal Authority

Even from eternity I am He, And there is none who can deliver out of My hand; I act and who can reverse it?

ISAIAH 43:13 NASB

How glorious it is to belong to the King! What an honor to be counted among his children, to be held secure in his hand, to be the recipients of his love and affection. We are finite beings, but the Lord Almighty is infinite. Our presence here is fixed, but he is eternal. We were created by him and for him; he is the Author and Creator of all that we know. What he has decided to do, none can dismantle. Whom he decides to save, none can sway.

The Lord extends his hand and delivers us from our adversary, and all the enemy’s schemes cannot crush his limitless power. He is from eternity, possessing all form of love and wisdom. His plan is perfect, and we are part of it. For all of time—past, present, and future—the Lord reigns with justice and mercy. We are blessed beyond measure to know and be known by him.

Knowing that God holds you and keeps you safe, what could you and your spouse endeavor to do with boldness?

JANUARY 5

Foresight

I know that You can do all things, And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.

JOB 42:2 NASB

Sitting in agony, covered in dust, boils, and tears, Job declared his faith in God. Although it seemed like his whole world had fallen apart, Job still believed that God was able to do anything. He believed in God’s ability to remove his sufferings, yet he received something far greater than relief: God met Job in his pain and showed him his great mysteries. Rather than ease his suffering, he used it to open Job’s eyes and grew his relationship with him even deeper! Job’s faith multiplied, as did his wisdom.

When we suffer, rather than immediately seeking an escape, we should look for how the Lord might be using the situation to richly bless our lives. Instead of making our anguish end, he may meet us in it and share the burden with us. Far more desirable than a life of ease is the experience of a true friendship with the Creator. His plans will be established across the globe because his purposes cannot be stopped. His friends are invited to participate in his mission, but it will be accompanied by many hardships and trials. But he is with us through it all.

In the midst of suffering, does your mind go first to easing your pain or seeking God? How can you encourage your spouse in moments of suffering?

JANUARY 6

Best Friends

A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need.

PROVERBS 17:17 NLT

True friendships are often revealed through adversity. When the excitement wears off and the trials hit, loyal friends will remain to help fight the battles. Their love is constant and not dependent on what they receive from the relationship. Friendship does not ask what is fair; it exhibits true love regardless of the cost.

Marriages will experience conflict, but a healthy marriage will rise above the argument and spouses will support each other through the best and worst of life. Christ is the perfect example of a devout lover, a brother, and a true friend. His love is constant, never wavering and eternal. He came to earth to help those in need, not to be served, and he gave his own life to serve those he loved. In Christ, we are family. We may be friends as well, but first we are brothers and sisters in Christ, loyal to the Lord and to each other.

Beyond partnership, do you and your spouse enjoy a friendship together?

JANUARY 7

What You Bring

You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

1 PETER 2:9 NRSV

We were chosen as God’s people, and the purpose for that is not our own self-preservation or glorification, but so we may proclaim his goodness and explain all the incredible wonders he has done on our behalf. Remembering where we came from helps us keep perspective on who we are; we were once lost in darkness, but God called us out of it and flooded us with his marvelous light. Now we are members of his holy family.

Anyone willing to leave their dark pasts behind and submit themselves to Christ’s calling becomes a member of his holy nation—a nation which will endure forever and not be swept away with temporal things. Regardless of where we come from or what we look like, we become one spiritual race since we share the same Father. Peter made it clear that this was not an invitation to the Israelites alone but to anyone who stumbled out of darkness and embraced living in God’s light.

What opportunities do you have to proclaim the mighty acts of God?

JANUARY 8

Stormy Waters

We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

ROMANS 5:3-5 NIV

Wouldn’t it be nice if every marriage came equipped with a plan for smooth sailing? Instead, we encounter severe storms and rough waters as we face financial difficulties, health crisis situations, and relationship struggles. These moments can strengthen us or destroy us, and our attitudes influence the outcome as we face those challenges.

By asking God what he wants us to learn from those situations, we build perseverance and character to help us in future storms. As we see God’s hand in our lives and marriages, we have confidence in his will for the years ahead. And when we ride out those challenges together as a couple, our love grows.

How do you react to challenges? How can you work together as a couple when stormy times arrive?

JANUARY 9

Precions

Let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.

1 PETER 3:4 NASB

Turning his attention specifically to Christian wives, Peter explained that a woman’s true beauty is found in her unseen character rather than her outward appearance. Women are inundated with messages about what the world deems attractive, and they are plagued with insurmountable physical standards. Instead of striving to achieve some form of impossible physique, their focus should be on cultivating a humble and quiet heart. Like so many of the Bible’s lessons which were directed at a certain group of people in that time, there are spiritual insights associated with them that are applicable to anyone.

To possess a “quiet spirit” does not mean women should stay silent, but that they ought to strive to maintain a level of inner peace and contentment which is only possible through relying on the Lord. In a world which applauds impenetrable toughness and caters to the loudest voices, Christians are to follow Christ’s example by remaining caring and calm. Hardening your heart does not demonstrate a tenderness before the Lord, nor does anxiety and strife reveal a person who rests in God’s peace. It is your hidden godly qualities that are precious to God.

How can you be calm when others around you are not? How can you encourage your spouse to have a quiet spirit?

JANUARY 10

Understanding

As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

ISAIAH 55:9 NKJV

Have you and your spouse ever enjoyed God’s handiwork in the sky? Blue skies and puffy white clouds are gorgeous. And there’s something almost magical about a full moon and thousands of bright stars spread across the dark canopy of the sky. Those are the moments that make us understand what a big God we have.

Times like those are reminders that we shouldn’t limit God when it comes to the dreams on our hearts. His dreams for us are always bigger than ours. If we’ll listen to and understand his sweet whispers to us and follow through on those, we can achieve things as a couple that will be beyond our wildest expectations. He’s equipped us with unique skills and life experiences, and it’s such a joy to see the Lord use our spouse’s life in a big way for God’s glory.

Have you ever thought about what a big God we have? How do we limit him by looking at our resources instead of his?

JANUARY 11

Hope Overflowing

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

ROMANS 15:13 NIV

Daily life is difficult, and we are easily ensnared by evils which attempt to tear us apart and distract us from what Yahweh has called us to do. He alone can offer us true hope, peace, and joy, so we must continue to trust him and block out contradictory voices. If we truly want to be upheld by his mighty hand, to be led by his Holy Spirit, and to be filled with his confident hope, then we need to put our trust solely in him.

We will see God work through our lives for the purpose of his pleasure if we are willing to use our God-given gifts to encourage and strengthen each other. In our relationships with our spouses, we ought to strive to put them before ourselves and to always put the Lord first. He is faithful to guide us and keep us, to give us strength when we have none, and to provide us with hope and peace. His Holy Spirit fills us so we can live to the full extent of the purposes he has set in place for us.

How does trust lead to joy and peace?

JANUARY 12

Living Sacrifice

I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.

ROMANS 12:1 NLT

The mercies of God surround us! Every moment of our lives is a gift we do not deserve. When we were worthy of death, he gave us forgiveness and life. He no longer demands animal sacrifices as an atonement for our sins but asks that we be fully committed to him in mind and body. Rather than the blood of goats, which served as a tangible example of the gravity and penalty of sin, he wants our full submission to him: our entire bodies, hearts, minds, and strength.

The Lord desires that we live for him in all that we say, think, and do. It is an unfathomable, undeserved gift that we no longer need to atone for our sins with sacrifices and offerings since he already settled that account for us by offering himself as the ultimate sacrifice. Since he bought and paid for us, we are fully his. Even more incredible is the fact that we are what he desires! He does not want sacrifices or servanthood but mutual love and devotion. May our lives be an act of worship to him because of all he has done for us.

What does it mean to be a living and holy sacrifice to the Lord in your daily life? How about in your marriage?

JANUARY 13

Good Gifts

Who forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.

1 TIMOTHY 4:3-5 ESV

Gnosticism teaches that all forms of physical pleasure are inherently evil, including music and entertainment, delicious foods, and sexual enjoyment. This sort of belief was trending at the time Paul wrote to Timothy especially in Ephesus. He warned him against such notions and reminded him that everything God created was good.

We are not supposed to reject the gifts of God but thank him for them and enjoy them. He created so many things for our enjoyment because he is a good and loving God. The popular practice of Asceticism was also on the rise, which taught that by rejecting pleasures of the flesh, people could avoid corruption and somehow obtain a higher level of spirituality. Although nothing should come before God in our lives, true holy living can only be attained through spending time with God and in his Word because holiness comes from him alone. Pride and self-reliance will corrupt us far faster than enjoying God’s blessings. Marriage is a gift from our Maker to be treasured and enjoyed.

What sort of pleasures has God given you to enjoy?

JANUARY 14

The Great Need

I am a friend to anyone who fears you—anyone who obeys your commandments.

PSALM 119:63 NLT

Mutual interest is bonding. We share a connection with those who strive for the same things we do. The fear of the Lord leads us to wisdom, and a wise person will surround themselves with other wise people. Those who fear the Lord will do their utmost to obey his commandments and their lives will reflect a desire to honor God.

When we meet people like this and our desire is also to obey his Word, our decisions will complement each other’s, and a friendship will be natural. As we strive to serve the Lord, it will become evident that this is better accomplished in the company of other brothers and sisters with the same heart and mind. Camaraderie is born out of sharing a common goal—especially when that goal ties us together as family under Christ.

How do you feel when you meet someone new and discover they love the Lord like you do?

JANUARY 15

In a Crowd

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

MATTHEW 9:36 NIV

Just like a good father and a caring shepherd, when the Lord sees us lost and confused it fills him with compassion. He does not chastise us for our inadequacies but chooses to show us grace. He is not angry because we cannot find our own way; he steps in to lead us. His kind heart is full of mercy as he tirelessly pursues us. We were so desperate for salvation that he actually left heaven to come and redeem us. Since then, he continues to rescue us, often leaving the well-cared-for flock to search for each one of us who wanders off and becomes lost.

Jesus never abandons us to our hopeless wanderings but will go any length to intervene on our behalf. He mediates between heaven and earth, having lived in both, and is the only one who could bridge the gap. His is the only way that leads to eternal life! May we be instrumental in the lives of others as he uses us to extend his message of love and eternal life.

Do you have compassion on others who are engulfed in their sin? Have you asked the Lord to fill you with more compassion for his lost people?

JANUARY 16

Pedestals

“Render true judgments, show kindness and mercy to one another, do not oppress the widow, the fatherless, the sojourner, or the poor, and let none of you devise evil against another in your heart.”

ZECHARIAH 7:9-10 ESV

Children of God have no business meddling in evil affairs. Since all our provisions come from God, there is no reason for us to cheat anyone else or submit inaccurate accounts. Kindness and mercy should be the default reaction of every Christian because of the grace we have been shown, and we should devise plans to do good for one another.

The Lord has a tender spot in his heart for the helpless and the disadvantaged. This may be someone who has lost their spouse and is reliant on one income or it could be someone who does not have the support of parents. It is perhaps a foreigner who is immersed in a culture that is not their own, or someone who feels marginalized from society. Most certainly, it includes the poor. These are the people we should run to with love and kindness. We should be quick to offer support and slow to judge.

Who needs your support and love? Can you and your spouse do something together to help them?

JANUARY 17

Burdens Lifted

You should rather turn to forgive and comfort him, or he may be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.

2 CORINTHIANS 2:7 ESV

Marriage brings times of extreme happiness and joy, but it also sees times that require comfort and understanding. Having a spouse means you have someone sharing good and bad times. When something wonderful happens in your life, having someone to do the happy dance with is a blessing. Your love connects you in a way that makes you feel that every joy is a shared dream.

Your spouse also provides comfort. When you have a bad day and feel overwhelmed, just sharing those feelings lightens the load. Your spouse is the person in this world who loves you more than anyone else. Naturally, he or she is the person from whom you would seek comfort.

Have you recently shared an accomplishment with your spouse? Has there been a time when you needed comfort and your spouse provided it? Take time to thank each other today.

JANUARY 18

Futile Flattery

May the LORD cut off all flattering lips, The tongue that speaks great things.

PSALM 12:3 NASB

Communication between two or more individuals has great potential, because our tongue is one of our most powerful weapons. People who have spoken great things are those who believe that this weapon is their savior. For this reason, the psalmist prays for God to not only silence their arrogant, great words, but to take away their pompous source of communication. To begin with, this passage warns us of how despicable flattery and proud words are. Further, it shows that we must give an account for our words to the Lord.

We can use our communication to build up those around us. Our spouses and parents will probably all tell us that the words we speak have a tremendous impact on them. News outlets testify that a reporter’s words impact those far beyond their social circle. Imagine the incredible impact we could have if flattering lips and the tongue that speaks great things would cease to exist in the church at large. We need to pray that our voices would speak the words of Christ instead of the natural responses that are typical for this world. Use your words and your influence to speak life into the heart of a hurting world.

Do you control your words or does your tongue control you?

JANUARY 19

Comfort in Suffering

If we have troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation, and if we have comfort, you also have comfort. This helps you to accept patiently the same sufferings we have. Our hope for you is strong, knowing that you share in our sufferings and also in the comfort we receive.

2 CORINTHIANS 1:6-7 NCV

The believers in Corinth were having a difficult time assessing why if Paul was truly an apostle, he would continually undergo such suffering. Wouldn’t God spare him if he approved of what he was doing? What they did not yet understand was that suffering serves an important purpose. We learn a lot about Christ through suffering. We remember the importance of the Gospel message and its eternal promises, and we garner attention for our messages when we suffer.

It is not necessary that we go looking for suffering; the message of the Gospel attracts opposition naturally. We have a real enemy who attempts to thwart our plans, but when we suffer it becomes obvious to all that we sincerely believe in and will fight for the truth we live by. Believers are not exempt from suffering. What we are promised is that the Lord will always be with us to comfort and to guide us.

How has God comforted you through suffering and used it to teach you more about his abounding grace?

JANUARY 20

Soldiers Together

Put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.

EPHESIANS 6:13 NLT

The battle is big, but Christians are equipped. Gazing around our world today, it is easy to feel overwhelmed, angry, scared, and drowned out. So many confused voices shout misguided idioms, so much contradictory information is pushed in our faces, and self-worship abounds. When we steal away from the world and find a quiet moment to soak in the Word of God, we remember again that we are never alone.

The Lord goes before us. He trains us and does not leave us defenseless. Everything we require for a life of victory has already been given to us. As we carefully consider each piece of armor the Lord has laid before us, it becomes apparent that it is the enemy who should cower in fear. Those who stand with God are on the winning side; we will be standing firm when the battle is finally over.

Have you adorned yourself with each piece of armor according to Ephesians 6?

JANUARY 21

Pure Ingredients

Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.

ROMANS 13:14 NIV

We are no longer slaves of sin, and we have no part in the deeds of darkness. The immoral acts Paul is referring to are listed in the previous verse: carousing, drunkenness, sexual immorality, debauchery, dissension, and jealousy. All these shameful stunts exist only to satisfy the urges of the flesh. Their focus is self-gratification, not love of God and others. If we are fixated on feeling good and doing whatever we want in the moment, we are worshipping ourselves and not God.

As children of light pulled out of the darkness, we have been instructed to clothe ourselves with Christ. This means we are to cast off the appearance of sin and darkness and take on his image. We live like he lived and think about how we can honor him. Although it is not our purpose or motivation, obedience to God is always rewarded, and it leads to far more satisfaction, contentment, and joy than a life lived in pursuit of our own agendas ever could.

When you think about how you could please God instead of yourself, what comes to mind? As an immediate practical example, how can you please your spouse before focusing on yourself?

JANUARY 22

God’s Riches

“You cannot serve both God and money.”

MATTHEW 6:24 NIV

The systems and mentality of the world contradict the laws of God. The former promotes seeking our own happiness and living for ourselves, whereas the latter commands that we seek to honor God and look out for the welfare of others. Money and material wealth can be used as tools in service to the Lord, but if earthly riches and fame captivate us and steal our devotion, it is displeasing to God and devastating to our souls.

The Lord will not stand as second in command, and we cannot serve him if we are serving ourselves. God desires to be our one and only master. He rules in love and all his ways are just. He has guaranteed us eternal life, peace, joy, and a family with him forever. His love for us is everlasting and unparalleled. It is foolish to throw this all aside in pursuit of any lesser master.

What is the difference between owning wealth and wealth owning you? How do you and your spouse encourage each other to remain wise in the area of finance?

JANUARY 23

Sacrificial Love

You adulterers! Don’t you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God.

JAMES 4:4 NLT

When it comes to the subject of submission to God, James leaves no room to question how serious a matter it is. God desires to be the first and only King in our lives. He did, after all, create us, save us, and now sustains us. We owe him everything and especially our allegiance. When we place anything above him, James likens it to someone having an affair. Once we have promised our loyalty to our spouse, breaking that bond with someone else is very damaging.

When we forsake God for anything or anyone else, it hurts his heart. He is a good and loving God who is willing to accept us back if we repent and turn away from our wicked choices, but disloyalty is never a worthwhile choice to begin with. It is a difficult road back once we start down it because sin has a way of pulling us along and alluring us toward death. It is far wiser to keep our eyes fixed on God from the start.

Maintaining loyalty is difficult with God and with our spouses. What are you doing in your life to fight off the snares of the devil and keep your commitments to God and your spouse?

JANUARY 24

Price of Wealth

Better is the little of the righteous than the abundance of many wicked.

PSALM 37:16 NASB

The abundance of the wicked may seem tantalizing to those of us who have very little, but meager wages earned honestly are of far greater value in terms of what truly matters. To gain wealth through evil means is worthless because the days of the wicked are numbered. Whether the Lord has blessed the righteous with great wealth or taught them to endure with limited rations, we are instructed to offer what we have to God and find contentment in his love.

This life and its treasures will all fade away one day, so it would be foolish to trade our souls for comfortable living here and now. The Lord seeks to increase our faith. All the pleasures of this life pale in comparison to a life lived serving him; for true joy can only be found in him. He is both our purpose and our pleasure.

What do you and your spouse have that can be used to serve God?

JANUARY 25

Supporting Role

He who heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.

PROVERBS 10:17 NIV

The decisions we make, whether negative or positive, affect not only us but others in our lives. Hate and love both have a multiplying effect, and the choices we make always carry repercussions. The Lord disciplines those he loves because he cares about our development and our maturity. If we are humble enough to receive his loving discipline and grow from it, we can use these lessons, and the wisdom they have taught us, to bless others.

Having a faith that we can share is an incredible privilege. If we live contrary to God’s ordinances and are unwilling to learn or yield, it is to our detriment and the detriment of others. We can be a blessing or a hinderance to our spouses, family, friends, or others we may have an influence on. This is especially true with leaders in the church, teachers, and parents. Keep other people who are susceptible or young in the faith in mind when you are choosing which course to take.

How do you react to correction from your spouse?

JANUARY 26

Finding Flaws

“In the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

MATTHEW 7:2 NIV

Critique and criticism are two words with the same root but very different meanings. A critique is a detailed analysis of something. But a criticism highlights the faults in people and their actions. Criticism can kill a marriage.

Two imperfect people are going to have flaws and fights. But criticizing one another doesn’t solve any problems. A critical person is actually one who lacks communication skills. If you have an issue you want to address, don’t attack your spouse’s character. Instead, address how a particular behavior makes you feel. And if your mate comes to you with a problem, listen with an open mind. You’ll both be happier for it.

Is there an area in your marriage where you feel criticized? How can you work to communicate better?

JANUARY 27

A New Worldview

Suppose someone comes into your church meeting wearing nice clothes and a gold ring. At the same time a poor person comes in wearing old, dirty clothes. You show special attention to the one wearing nice clothes and say, “Please, sit here in this good seat.” But you say to the poor person, “Stand over there,” or, “Sit on the floor by my feet.” What are you doing? You are making some people more important than others, and with evil thoughts you are deciding that one person is better.

JAMES 2:2-4 NCV

Marriage joins two households and two backgrounds. You may have grown up in a family that was very open and loving, while your spouse grew up in a home that looked at others by different standards. Merging two conflicting viewpoints means establishing a new way of relating to others.

Often, the way we look at others is personality-related. Some personalities find it easier to love everyone, while others are more closed off. As you learn how to live with each other based on your backgrounds, personalities, and other factors, remember that God’s love within both of you should be the filter through which you view the world.

Do you see any prejudices in your lives as a couple? What can you do to overcome them?

JANUARY 28

Submit in Love

Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

EPHESIANS 5:21 NIV

Submission does not involve passively following what everyone else says or does. To submit within the context of its use in Scripture entails putting the needs of others above our own. We can do this because of our reverence for Christ and because we see how he put our needs before his own wellbeing. Jesus not only put our lives above his, he called us to do likewise and promised to take care of all our needs.

We have an example to follow and an assurance that he will always be with us, ready to catch us and care for us. Within the bond of marriage, the Bible is very clear that we are to submit to each other and put the needs of our spouses above our own. This provides a clear picture of Christ’s love to anyone privy to the union, and it also creates harmony and safety for both husband and wife.

How can you choose to put your spouse first today?

JANUARY 29

Devoted in Love

God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

EPHESIANS 2:4-7 ESV

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