Mr & Mrs E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

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

Seitenzahl: 405

Beschreibung

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 together with God—especially when you are busy. 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. Features: - High-grade faux leather provides durability and exquisite tactile appeal. - Heat debossing on faux leather darkens its color, giving the cover a two-tone appearance and creating indentation which shows off the intricate design and varied texture. - Metallic, pearl, or matte foil finishing touches are elegantly placed to enhance certain features, capturing attention and adding class for an aesthetic appeal. - This high-quality sturdy Smythe-sewn binding stitches book signatures together creating durability and allowing pages to lay flat when open. Decorative head and foot bands are also added to further complement the overall design. - This matte art high quality paper with a smooth satin touch provides long-lasting vivid coloration and durability. - A beautiful satin ribbon marker conveniently keeps your place so you can quickly pick up where you left off.

Leseprobe

BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC.

Savage, Minnesota USA

BroadStreetPublishing.com

Mr. & Mrs.

© 2021 by BroadStreet Publishing

978-1-4245-6189-6 (faux)

978-1-4245-6190-2 (eBook)

Devotional entries composed by Brenna Stockman.

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 (NIrV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Reader’s Version®, NIrV® Copyright © 1995, 1996, 1998, 2014 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIrV” and “New International Reader’s 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.

Design by Chris Garborg | garborgdesign.com

Compiled and edited by Michelle Winger | literallyprecise.com

Printed in China.

21 22 23 24 25 26  7 6 5 4 3 2 1

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

JOHN 15:12 TPT

Contents

January

January 1: Resolutions

January 2: True Wealth

January 3: Being Quiet

January 4: For Me

January 5: Kindness Overflow

January 6: Learn from Wisdom

January 7: Honoring Parents

January 8: All About Me

January 9: Work Ethic

January 10: Bearing Fruit

January 11: Clear Guide

January 12: A Trustworthy Heart

January 13: Marriage Foundation

January 14: Our Fortress

January 15: Love Covers

January 16: Perfect Example

January 17: Truly Amazing

January 18: More Important

January 19: Less of Me

January 20: Racing Partner

January 21: No Callouses

January 22: 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: Inner Circle

February 4: A Reliable Friend

February 5: God-Positioning System

February 6: Cold Water

February 7: Unmerited Favor

February 8: New Grip

February 9: Blossoming

February 10: Elementary Teaching

February 11: 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: Drink Deeply

February 19: Rejoicing in Suffering

February 20: Pleasing Presence

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: Ask for Wisdom

March 2: Eternal Futures

March 3: Hope and Mercy

March 4: You First

March 5: Pride or Honor

March 6: Ability

March 7: You Before Me

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: Constructive Criticism

March 14: Brotherly Affection

March 15: Maker Marked

March 16: Celebrate Often

March 17: Eternal Blessing

March 18: Good Works

March 19: Unique Gifts

March 20: Power in Weakness

March 21: Family Support

March 22: Continual

March 23: Strength in Numbers

March 24: Encouraging Words

March 25: Words that Wound

March 26: Choose Better

March 27: Our Safe Place

March 28: Breaching a Dam

March 29: Like Honey

March 30: Cast Your Cares

March 31: Deep Yearnings

April

April 1: Way of Fools

April 2: Do Good

April 3: Ask for Directions

April 4: Gracious Homes

April 5: Nazarene Neighbors

April 6: Keep the Peace

April 7: Practice Love

April 8: Humble Arguments

April 9: Surviving the Drought

April 10: Considered Conversations

April 11: Nearsighted

April 12: Received

April 13: Creator and Judge

April 14: Bonds of Peace

April 15: Sharing Wisdom

April 16: Understanding

April 17: Cause and Effect

April 18: Praise Wins

April 19: Set in Stone

April 20: Combat Loneliness

April 21: With Passion

April 22: Dissonance

April 23: Choosing Contentment

April 24: Undeserved

April 25: Unchained

April 26: Mine

April 27: Command and Promise

April 28: Overflowing

April 29: A Guard

April 30: Full Acceptance

May

May 1: With Integrity

May 2: Be a Builder

May 3: Strong and Courageous

May 4: Like Jesus

May 5: Hear and Obey

May 6: Boasting

May 7: Come Boldly

May 8: Eternal Contentment

May 9: Getting Advice

May 10: Give Generously

May 11: For You

May 12: Growing Up

May 13: Humble Harmony

May 14: Iron Bars

May 15: Be Still

May 16: Unquenchable Love

May 17: Love that Lasts

May 18: Loving the World

May 19: Needing Help

May 20: Healthy Ways

May 21: Our Safe Place

May 22: Mouths of Babes

May 23: Bitter Roots

May 24: Unwholesome Talk

May 25: Shine Like Stars

May 26: Following

May 27: With God

May 28: Freedom of Forgiveness

May 29: Great Exchange

May 30: Habit of Prayer

May 31: The Listening Ear

June

June 1: The Perusal

June 2: Hard Knocks

June 3: Seek the Lord

June 4: Two Masters

June 5: Daily Savoring

June 6: Fullness of Joy

June 7: Authentic Models

June 8: Carrying Burdens

June 9: Abandoning Self

June 10: Personal Jesus

June 11: Little and Great

June 12: Differences

June 13: Unswerving Faith

June 14: Guard Your Heart

June 15: Always Hope

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: 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

July 10: Sprouting Seeds

July 11: Confident Hope

July 12: Make Music

July 13: Captive Thoughts

July 14: Fruit of Kindness

July 15: Heavenly Comfort

July 16: Sleep in Peace

July 17: Distinctly Unique

July 18: Blessed

July 19: Together in Grief

July 20: Be an Encourager

July 21: Love Always

July 22: The Golden Rule

July 23: A God Decision

July 24: Serving Together

July 25: Gratitude Always

July 26: Morning Conversations

July 27: Happy Days

July 28: Rejoice Always

July 29: Steadfast Love

July 30: Letting Go

July 31: Devoted to Prayer

August

August 1: Trained for Battle

August 2: Ask the Teacher

August 3: Billions of Cells

August 4: Stressful Marathons

August 5: Shield of Love

August 6: Just Stay Calm

August 7: Safe and Secure

August 8: Stepping Away

August 9: Clothed in Righteousness

August 10: Godly Contentment

August 11: Triumphant Wisdom

August 12: Gentle Answer

August 13: Standards of Love

August 14: A Good Argument

August 15: Testing Patience

August 16: Two Paths

August 17: Judgment

August 18: Children of God

August 19: Rewards

August 20: Meeting Together

August 21: All Is Possible

August 22: Vow to God

August 23: Complementary Couple

August 24: Cherished Wisdom

August 25: Passing Through

August 26: Focus Forward

August 27: Bringing Calm

August 28: Careful Words

August 29: Each Has a Gift

August 30: Good Steps

August 31: Where Wisdom Is

September

September 1: Job’s Heart

September 2: Facing Trouble

September 3: Inexplicable Joy

September 4: Difficult to Love

September 5: The Fruit Basket

September 6: Incomprehensible

September 7: Unafraid

September 8: Replacing Ashes

September 9: Rekindle the Flame

September 10: Our Struggle

September 11: Half Empty Cup

September 12: Discipline Challenge

September 13: Planting Seeds

September 14: Always a Child

September 15: Father of Comfort

September 16: Time Marches On

September 17: The Waiting Game

September 18: 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

September 25: Hearts Aligned

September 26: Chase After God

September 27: Run First

September 28: The Priority

September 29: Lens of Love

September 30: New Mercies

October

October 1: Clear Truth

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: Precious

October 10: Understanding

October 11: Hope Overflowing

October 12: Living Sacrifice

October 13: Good Gifts

October 14: The Great Need

October 15: In a Crowd

October 16: Pedestals

October 17: Burdens Lifted

October 18: Futile Flattery

October 19: Comfort in Suffering

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: Devoted in Love

October 30: Blessed by Trust

October 31: Celebrating Success

November

November 1: Abounding in Love

November 2: Sound Wisdom

November 3: Light and Dark

November 4: The One

November 5: Self-Control

November 6: Uprooting Bitterness

November 7: Life and Peace

November 8: Absolute Peace

November 9: Unfolding

November 10: Preserved

November 11: Comfort Zone

November 12: Safe and Sound

November 13: Heart at Rest

November 14: Joined Together

November 15: Enduring Love

November 16: Benefits of Generosity

November 17: Trusting Together

November 18: Giving Cheerfully

November 19: Sharing Difficulties

November 20: Right Jealousy

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: Rest in Love

December 2: Honored

December 3: The Team

December 4: Best Consultant

December 5: The Best Promise

December 6: Brook of Bliss

December 7: Covenant of Love

December 8: Never Alone

December 9: Shield of Salvation

December 10: Undivided

December 11: Temple Work

December 12: Rooted in Christ

December 13: Everlasting and Unfailing

December 14: Pursued by Love

December 15: Sharpening Iron

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: The Messiah

December 25: As a Baby

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 together with God—especially when you are busy.

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

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

EPHESIANS 4:2-3 NIV

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

When we are at work or out with friends, our tendency is to be on our best behavior. When we are at home, in our own private space with the people who love us most, our walls come down and our worst comes out. Our family, specifically our spouses, are normally on the receiving end of our nastiest moments.

Since our family is a gift to us from God, our obedience to him begins with how we treat them. Our commitment to love God is best shown within the confines of our own home. Understandably, this is a daunting task, which is why the psalmist asks the Lord when he will come to him. We require God’s help to walk blamelessly, and the Lord is happy to give us everything we need when we ask.

What will you resolve to do to act with integrity in your home?

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

All around us are those who appear more prosperous. They do not face the struggles we do, and sometimes it seems wealth comes to them so much easier. There are those who are divisive, crooked, and selfish; they care only about their own betterment and not the wellbeing of others. Those people should not distract us or distort our view of how things really are.

Blessings cannot be weighed in dollars. Peace in the Lord can be the condition of our hearts regardless of our bank accounts or the chaos surrounding us. Taking time to be still before the Lord, exercising patience and trust in him, will calm our minds and cast away our worries. It is important that we find the time to refocus on God, and fight for our spouses to also have this time. Distractions are everywhere, so we must be purposeful in our pursuit of true and godly wealth.

How can you help your spouse find time to be alone with the Lord?

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

Feeling angry is not a sin, but we are responsible for our actions. Even when wrongs have been done against us, we have the option to do what is right. Approaching a difficult situation with an angry heart in the heat of the moment can lead to regrettable outcomes. However, taking time to think through the matter in a private place can bring clarity, so it is easier to address the offenses in a calm and collected state.

Knowing when to be silent and when to speak demonstrates wisdom and self-control. When we become angry at our spouses, it is important to not speak in wrath or try to break each other down. Instead, take the time necessary to calm down and refocus. Then it is easier to stay on point and hear the other person’s perspective.

When something makes you angry, how can you give it to God and refrain from sinning?

JANUARY 4

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

Everything begins and ends with God. The existence of nature and animals is to worship him. The point of our lives is to worship him. Even the purpose of our marriages is to worship him. He is worthy of glory, honor, and power because nothing good exists outside of him! It is only by him that we exist, so it should only be for him that we exist as well.

If matrimony truly is a picture of how God loves his people, then we should approach it with that same sort of situational reference. Trying to derive our “fair share” out of a marriage or using the other person’s shortcomings as justification for our own wrongdoings does not demonstrate a commitment to God. Marriage requires sacrifice, humility, and forgiveness in the same way Christ demonstrated for us when he accepted our payment for sin on the cross.

How can you glorify and honor God in your marriage?

JANUARY 5

Kindness Overflow

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

1 PETER 2:17 NCV

When our spouses disappoint us, we are called to show them respect. When other Christians are acting shamefully, we are to love them even still. God will sometimes do things or allow things that we do not understand, but we should respond in obedience. Our words about those in authority over us should be honorable and reflective of how Jesus would respond.

We cannot control other people, but we can control our responses. We do not have to agree with our spouse, friends, or those in leadership over us, but we do have to act in a way that is befitting of a child of God. Showing kindness has more power to soften hearts and bring about change than any disrespectful rebuttal or confrontation made in anger. Our desire should be for godly change and growth, not simply to stake our claim and make our opinion heard.

How can you continue to love and respect your spouse when you disagree or are disappointed?

JANUARY 6

Learn from Wisdom

“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

A lot can be learned from those who have walked before us. Asking for wisdom and insight from others who have been married longer can offer great benefits to our marriages. So often we feel like we must rely on our own strength and hide our problems when we should be turning to the Lord for strength and help.

God has surrounded us with others who have testimonies of their own. It would be to our advantage to find those who are older and wiser, and who have spent years walking with God throughout their marriage. Respecting those who have age and experience on their side and revering God and his Word go hand in hand with growing in wisdom ourselves. Our marriages will be better off if we open our ears and hearts to listen and learn.

Do you know anyone who has had a long and godly marriage? Ask them what advice they would offer.

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

We did not choose our parents and we did not directly choose our in-laws. However, that does not deviate from the commandment that God laid down that we are expected to honor them. Words have power, and the words we choose to use can influence others around us.

Although we may decide to live differently than the way our parents chose to live, there is a respectful way to go about implementing changes and alternative standards. God does not want us to defame or shame our parents in the way we speak or live. It was God who placed them over us to parent and raise us. However they ended up doing so, we honor them because we honor God.

Are the words you choose to use when discussing your parents or your spouse’s parents honoring?

JANUARY 8

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

Love and respect are basic desires of every human. It is easy to fall into the trap of withholding one or the other from our spouses as a way of controlling them or trying to force change. God’s love for us, however, is unending. Although there may be consequences for wrongdoings, he does not withhold his love from us.

In marriage, we have been told to love and respect our spouses. We love them because of the incredible love we have been shown, and we respect them because they are made in the image of God. One of the most practical ways we can demonstrate love and respect to God is by giving it to our spouse. It is not our duty to decide if they are worthy of it; we are in a marriage covenant with them and, for better or worse, we must love and respect each other.

What makes your spouse feel loved? What makes them feel respected?

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

Regardless of whether we are at home, at work, grocery shopping, or helping a friend, the expectation remains the same. Whatever we are doing, we should work as if we are working directly for the Lord—because we are. Every time we wash the dishes, head to the office, cook a meal, or volunteer our time, it is the Lord we are serving. Others may benefit from our devotion, but it always comes down to us and God.

When we remember our calling in the midst of the tedious, mundane, and even thankless tasks, it can offer us a motivation stronger than any other. Serving God is what we were made to do. It is not always glamorous or enjoyable, but it is honorable and remembered.

When is it difficult for you to find joy in your work?

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

God never leaves us with problems or trials too vast for us to navigate. He is the opposite of confusion. His love brings clarity, insight, and direction. If we ever need wisdom, he gives it to us freely when we are truly seeking him. He gives us his Holy Spirit to comfort and to guide us.

Living a life worthy of the Lord means making choices that reflect our gratitude for his grace and forgiveness. It means acting lovingly toward each other whether that love is deserved or not because God loves us abundantly and we certainly do not deserve his love. This way of living does not dictate that we tolerate wrong behavior but that our approach always be in love, remembering that we ourselves have also been forgiven much.

Why is bearing good fruit a sign of someone who is truly following God?

JANUARY 11

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

Although the Lord has freely given us forgiveness, he does not expect us to use his gift as a reason to act shamefully. Those who wish to follow God are called to live as he did. The Bible offers us a very clear guide as to how we are to conduct ourselves. Then, to demonstrate a godly lifestyle for us even clearer, God came to the world as Jesus Christ and lived a perfect life. Those whom Jesus was closest to and lived day to day beside were convinced of his Lordship by his wise words and his complementary lifestyle.

Just as the Lord Jesus taught us by his own life, we are to do what is right regardless of the outcome or of what the people around us are doing. We are to love mercy even when our minds scream for justice and we have been injured or insulted. We must leave justice in the hands of God and desire mercy. Casting aside pride, we ought to walk humbly with God. When we are near him and in reverent awe of his majesty, it is much easier to realize our own humble state.

How can you and your spouse encourage each other to follow these three mandates?

JANUARY 12

A Trustworthy Heart

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

John shows us here that our hearts are not trustworthy—only God is. If our hearts condemn us, he reminds us that God is bigger than our feelings. He is the one who knows all and he created a way for us to come to him. If we come, he will receive us. When we feel guilty, we must give those feelings to him, accept the truth of his forgiveness, and receive the rest and peace that his loving presence offers.

As a follow-up, John explains that our response to God’s unfailing grace should be to believe in Jesus Christ, love one another, and keep his commands. His grace and forgiveness are freely given, but our response to his love reveals if we have truly accepted him as our Lord or not.

Do your feelings ever mislead you from the truth of the gospel? How can you purposefully remember that God is faithful even when your own heart is deceitful?

JANUARY 13

Marriage Foundation

Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him.

PSALM 62:5 NLT

We cannot build our homes, jobs, or marriages on shifting sands. Our hope is only secure in the Father and in his promises. People will disappoint, status is not fulfilling, and our earthly homes are only temporary. All that will remain is what is rooted in Christ. Then when everything around us is uncertain, when injustice is rampant and evil is prevailing, and when those closest to us have let us down, our hope remains intact. Quietly, not in a concerned or questioning way, we wait for the Lord because we know what he says is true.

There is nothing in this world that has the power to steal our peace and our joy. No attempt of the enemy can derail our hope or lead us into doubt. For thousands of years the Lord has never failed to do exactly what he has said he will do, so we can turn to him for assurance and completely trust the truth in his Word.

What is your marriage founded upon?

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

All around us, in media and in life, there are examples of people trying to find fulfillment in others. Although we are created to need one another, ultimate love and sustenance comes only from our relationship with God. Another human is unable to offer what our souls crave most because our souls were made to desire God. When he is not at the center of our lives, we become off-balanced and uneasy.

Our search to find fulfillment elsewhere will only lead us further off course until we admit the need for our Creator. In him, we find our rest and our internal calm. In him, we are grounded, centered, and focused. Nothing that comes against us can shake us because he is our immovable rock and the holder of our hearts. Salvation and safety can only be found in him.

What place does God have in your life? What place does your spouse have?

JANUARY 15

Love Covers

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

1 PETER 4:8 NIV

Love looks past the shortcomings of another and sees the person God created. Even though we have all failed many times, the God still loves us. In this same manner, he has instructed us to love each other deeply. This comes from the Greek word ektenés which is used to describe the strenuous activity of an athlete’s muscles when sprinting.

Love is not easy, nor is it simply a feeling. Love is a commitment to choose each other amid the sins, failures, and disappointments. Marriage requires even more grace since the actions of our spouses directly affect us. Our love must be ardent and determined, not dependent on our feelings or the actions of our spouses. We must commit to love our spouses in the good times and the bad.

How can you show your spouse you love them when you do not feel very loving?

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 sort of love expected of husbands toward their wives is far greater than mere sentiment. If it were required, he should love her even to the point of death! Christ’s sacrifice was so great that the imagery depicted in this verse should not be overlooked or undervalued. This is an active, sacrificial love that considers the needs of a wife over even his own.

Just as the wife is called to submit to her husband, the husband is similarly called to submit his own desires to the care and love of his wife. Christ gave us the perfect example of love, and now it is our responsibility and honor to replicate that example to each other, to the rest of our families, and to anyone else the Lord places in our paths.

How can you apply your understanding of salvation to your marriage?

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

Of everything we experience, true love between a husband and wife is one of the strongest and most amazing experiences of all. We marvel at the power and elegance of an eagle gliding silently through the sky, its keen eyes searching far and wide. We are fascinated by creatures who must regulate themselves, carefully gauging their own bodies to know what is needed for optimal health. We are in awe of mighty ships that traverse even mightier oceans, with difficulties and peril on every horizon. How much more should we give thanks to our Creator for the wonderful and amazing gift of love between ourselves and our marriage mate?

Proper love for our spouses is even stronger than love of our own life. Like a powerful ship on a stormy sea, we must build each other up, work together as a team, and closely follow the commands of our loving Father. We need to keep constant watch over our marriages, making sure that things are kept in balance. And like the majestic eagle, if we keep our love pure and keenly look for ways to improve our marriages in Godly ways, we will soar above the problems that come our way.

What signs does your spouse give you that they need comfort and reassurance?

JANUARY 18

More Important

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

1 CORINTHIANS 13:4 NCV

As sentimental as this passage is, Paul’s message to the church in Corinth was in direct response to their self-centered way of living. It was a critique and a calling to a higher standard than they had previously been living. More than just a marriage mantra, it is a warning to resist pride and refuse to brag. When our purpose is self-promotion, love gives way to arrogance.

When we esteem others as more important than ourselves—which is a direct contradiction to the way the world tells us to live—then love can truly lead us. We can exercise patience for others and surrender our plans to God. We can be kind and do good for others even when there is no recognition or reward in it for ourselves. Love will even triumph over envy because we will rejoice that others receive blessings!

In what ways does pride manifest the opposite of love?

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

Jesus had already claimed within this passage that he was identical to God in the things he did, in his love, in his authority over both life and death, in his judgment, and in his honor. He was leading the disciples to a full understanding that he was, in all things, God himself. He had come on a mission; he was not following his own human desires and tendencies but was committed to fulfilling the will of God.

His mandate superseded any temptations or distractions the world threw in his path. Even though people persecuted him, sought to kill him, and finally did crucify him, Jesus was unrelenting in his quest to preach the will of the Father and live it out in every one of his choices and judgments. Do we desire to be like him?

When we lay aside our own wills for the will of our Father, what changes in our hearts? How does that carry over into a change in our behavior?

JANUARY 20

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

Racing with a partner can inspire us to push further than we would on our own. Having someone cheering us on is a great encouragement and motivator! Running alone is difficult, and sometimes a simple word of assurance can give us the courage we need to keep going in this hectic, overwhelming world.

As we strive to shake off the needless weights the world throws on us, we can lean on each other for help and strength. God gave us other people so we could run this race together. We ought to share both our helping hands as well as our burdens, continuing to race together.

What are some practical ways you can cheer your race partner on?

JANUARY 21

No Callouses

“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

Sometimes when we are self-absorbed, our hearts become closed off. If we have been hurt, our human instinct is not to love but to protect ourselves by distancing or shielding. When this process has begun, it becomes more and more difficult to recognize the needs of others and to hear what they are telling us. Our understanding of truth is also affected since our perception is limited behind the walls we are creating.

Bias and personal interest can taint our judgments. As Christians, we can trust our well-being to the capable hands of our Lord and King, then continue to love others just as he loved us. We can know for certain that the Lord will sustain us, and we do not need to callous our hearts against others who seek to harm us.

How can you keep your heart sensitive toward the Lord and your spouse?

JANUARY 22

Loving Rebuke

Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you.

PROVERBS 9:8 NIV

The good news of God is refreshing; it brings peace and joy. The wise person digs into his Word and gladly accepts wisdom even if this means making difficult life changes. However, this message is not welcomed by everyone. Many treat the counsel of the Scriptures with disdain and ridicule. Today, individuals who are wise in their own eyes put evil in place of goodness and goodness in place of evil. They hate rebuke and correction.

While we do not hold back the kingdom message from anyone, is it wise to become involved in long debates with those who simply want to argue? Instead, be wise and show by example that following God’s commands brings true satisfaction. May we never resent Scriptural counsel or discipline, but let these guides mold our lives and experience the righteousness of our heavenly Father.

Why does a wise person love rebuke?

JANUARY 23

Peace through Laws

Great peace have those who love your law; nothing can make them stumble.

PSALM 119:165 NRSV

When we receive God’s forgiveness for our sins and declare that he is Lord of our life, we stop living for ourselves and we follow his leadership. This is accompanied by a set of rules and guidelines that God, in his lovingkindness, established so we could live a worthwhile life to the fullest measure! Begrudging compliance will not please either God or us. When we learn his laws, seek to truly understand why he instated them, and realize the good that comes from adherence, we end up loving them and experiencing unexplainable peace.

True to its depiction of the love of God, marriage operates in the same fashion. When we commit our lives to one person, many freedoms we previously experienced are traded in for the adventure of marital love and companionship. Suddenly, we answer to someone else and must lay our own wishes down. What matters now is a strong partnership rather than two individual sets of interests.

What binding elements of marriage have you learned to love?

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

When Jesus taught his disciples what a true leader was, he used the Greek word diakonos which here is translated “servant.” This word, from which we get the word deacon, means someone who attends to the needs and desires of another. Jesus demonstrated this style of leadership throughout his life and instructed his followers to do likewise.

In our lives, and especially in our marriages, we are to follow the example of Christ and become a servant of all. Like our Lord chose to do for the sake of those he loves, we have the privilege of laying aside our rights and our freedoms to help others. Issues within marriage hardly ever cut fair, so a more advantageous approach would be to love and serve our spouses whenever and however we can.

In what ways is God’s kingdom a paradox to how we understand worldly establishments?

JANUARY 25

Sharing

If you help the poor, you are lending to the LORD—and he will repay you!

PROVERBS 19:17 NLT

This psalmist captures a sliver of God’s altruistic personality in this verse. The motion of lending to the Lord draws out the essence of God and the desire he has for his people. His very nature is caring, empathetic, and generous which is how he wants his children to also be. Making us aware of who he is teaches us how we ought to be. Those who are poor are so close to the heart of God that by giving to them it is as if we give straight to God.

Later in the New Testament, Christ clarified how he expects believers to love their neighbors as if they were loving themselves. He also told the story of the Good Samaritan which demonstrated the kind of care and compassion Christians are supposed to show anyone who is in need. Ultimately, the Creator is glorified when we actively love his creation. Not only is helping the poor a form of worship to God, it is directly tied into our God-given purpose—and he also repays those who give! God is faithful; he rewards those who diligently seek him. When we serve others, we become more like our Father and that is an unfathomable reward.

What can you do this week to help the poor?

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

The best way to show God how much we love him is by loving his children. Fasting and other religious acts are beneficial for us in understanding God and drawing close to him, but what he truly wants is for us to love one another. Sometimes far greater than abstaining from food is sharing food with those who are hungry. What purpose does living humbly have if we are not also reaching out in love to help others?

Every good thing we have been given is from the Lord. We have the option to either use these gifts for our own pleasure or invest them into the kingdom of God. Simply acting religiously does not alter the condition of our hearts. Rather than relying on recitation of religious rhetoric, we ought to put the love that we have been shown to use and feed the poor. God is far more pleased with the one who does than the one who says.

Who is God asking you to share with?

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

Here we see the fine teaching of Jesus himself. What good things Jehovah has given us! We have life, a measure of health, and he gave us a beautiful earth as our home. When we reflect on our blessings, and the Bible’s promises for a bright future, should we not feel compelled to be generous with our spiritual brothers and sisters? In fact, our heavenly Father expects us to show kindness and generosity. Our attitude in this matter directly affects our relationship with him.

Within the family of God, the Bible shows that the husband and wife are considered one flesh. If God expects us to show kindness, generosity, and affection for those who are related to us in the faith, how much more so does he expect a husband and wife to honor each other and give each other the emotional, material, and physical support they need? Thinking about the good things that Jehovah has given us should move us to give freely.

Is your spouse, family, friend, or neighbor lacking something that you have the ability to fill?

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

Everything we have has been entrusted to us by God. Our wealth and possessions as well as our opportunities and abilities. When we open our mouths to speak, it should be to honor God and not ourselves. All credit and praise are due to him. When others thank us for our help, we ought to remember to thank God.

Similarly, our marriages are a gift from God, and we should approach them with this sort of reverence. We cannot take our spouses for granted or act as though we somehow deserve the blessings that come through marriage. Our spouses are God’s children and he entrusted them to us. The words that we say and the deeds that we do for them should demonstrate our gratefulness to God for his gift and the respect we have for the position he has placed us in. Words carry power, so let us use ours for God’s glory and not our own conceited agendas.

Do your words reflect your appreciation toward God?

JANUARY 29

Precious Promise

The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.

ROMANS 16:20 NIV

This powerful promise is preceded by a message from Paul to the Christians in Rome, cautioning them against false preachers and teachers who twist the truths of God to fit their own agenda. They deceive their followers to serve their own purposes, and they do so in the name of God. In truth, they are not followers of God, but of the father of lies. In summary, Paul assures the believers that God’s truth will always triumph.

The powers of the devil will one day expire and all the deceiving which was accomplished under his reign will be overturned. Every wrong will be made right and all people will know the truth. Satan will be crushed, God will bring peace to the whole world, and the grace of Jesus Christ will be with us. This is a precious promise we have from the Lord, and we can find our hope and security in it.

What is your response when confronted with evil and deception?

JANUARY 30

Part of the Equation

The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ.

1 CORINTHIANS 12:12 NLT

To love each other as if we were one body requires a different perspective than the world teaches. In a culture which promotes entitlement, individualism, and pride, Paul counteracts such empty pursuits by challenging believers to consider who we are in Christ. If we have truly separated ourselves from our sinful natures and been grafted into God’s family, then other believers are our family members. It is as if we are one body, and we need to care for each other as such.

Within a marriage where a husband and wife become one flesh, this is even more imperative. Marriage is meant to be a picture of Christ’s love for us. When we begin putting the needs of our spouses before our own, we portray that image the way it was intended.

What can you do to care for the needs of your spouse today?

JANUARY 31

Better Days

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

PSALM 46:1 NIV

Our spouse can offer great solace and comfort, but nothing in this world can compare to the safety and strength offered by the Lord Almighty. When troubling times come, he is nearby, supplying us with the wisdom and guidance we need. All the strength necessary to make it through the most challenging days can be found in our Father. He is our hope for the future, our light in the darkness, and our peace amidst the turmoil of life. He stays near to us, evidenced in the promise of the Holy Spirit.