- Dec 20, 2019
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The year is winding down, and a new one is fast approaching. As the days get shorter and colder, why not spend some quality time with your spouse by the fire or over a cup of hot cocoa, getting to know more about them? These devotions for married couples will help you do just that. These short devotions will help you connect with your spouse on a new level as the new year approaches.
Read 1 Samuel 12 together or individually, then focus your conversation on verse 24, discussing the questions that follow. “Only fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you” (1 Samuel 12:24).
In today’s materialistic culture, it’s easy to feel less than blessed. As we look at neighbors and friends who have bigger homes or better jobs than we do, we may sometimes grow dissatisfied with our lives. But married couples do well to reflect on the things they know are blessings from the Lord, such as a thriving marriage, children, health, and daily provision. Take time to write a list of your shared blessings and see if it makes you more aware of what God has done for you.
As a couple, discuss 1 Samuel 16. Read the chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“The LORD said to Samuel, ‘How long will you grieve over Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go. I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for myself a king among his sons.’ And Samuel said, ‘How can I go? If Saul hears it, he will kill me.’ ” 1 Samuel 16:1-2
The Lord specifically told Samuel to go and anoint a new king, but the prophet was afraid. Most of us have never been in a situation where following the Lord could result in our death. Yet we are called to die to ourselves and follow the Lord daily—not a physical death, but perhaps the loss of a relationship or an opportunity. At times, obeying the Lord can be hard, but married couples can lean on each other for encouragement. We can remind our spouse of God’s promises and that He is the one who gives us the courage we need each day.
Talk about the book of Ephesians. Read each chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passages below and discuss the questions that follow.
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3).
We’re clearly called to unity with our spouses. Sometimes, that means we need to let go of our own grievances. Other times, to be truly unified, we’re called to make peace. A divisive issue can cause more damage when it’s hidden. Squarely facing the issue—always with a humble and gentle spirit—is sometimes the only way to bring true peace. Unity develops when both husband and wife, even with their differences, see the issue in the same light through the guidance of the Spirit and realize that you’re on the same team.
As a couple, discuss 2 Samuel 1:26. Read the verse together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“I am distressed for you, my brother Jonathan; very pleasant have you been to me; your love to me was extraordinary” (2 Samuel 1:26).
In 2 Samuel 1:26, David had just learned about the death of his best friend, Jonathan. Their relationship was no ordinary friendship but more like family. But did you know that having close friends matters to your marriage? Friends can be a blessing to our marriages. They can encourage us to love our spouse well, hold us accountable when we fall short, and support our marriages when we feel like giving up. We can also do the same for them.
As a couple, discuss 2 Samuel 9. Read the verse together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“Is there not still someone of the house of Saul, that I may show the kindness of God to him?” (2 Samuel 9:3)
When a husband and wife are getting to know each other, the extra special kindness they show each other comes easily and naturally. But as the years pass, that kindness often falls by the wayside. In a life busy with children, jobs, errands, and volunteering, we can get comfortable, trusting that our spouse will always be around. We may believe there’s no need—and no time—to go out of our way to show kindness. In 2 Samuel, King David went to great lengths to find a descendant of Saul so he could show the kindness of God to him. Like this great king, we should look for opportunities to be kind, knowing that these loving actions strengthen our marriage.
As a couple, discuss Galatians 3:5 and 5:22-23. Read the verses together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“Does he who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you do so by works of the law, or by hearing with faith?” (Galatians 3:5)
Sometimes, we mistakenly judge faith by superficial actions or by adherence to religious traditions. We may even set a standard of behavior by which we measure spiritual “progress.” These rules can lead believers to focus on outward behavior while moving away from a real relationship with the Savior. But when our faith is truly growing, the fruit of the Spirit will be evident in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23). The good behaviors will flow out of our love for God rather than obedience to religious laws.
As a couple, discuss Acts 18:2-3. Read the verses together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“And he [Paul] found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla.… And he went to see them, and because he was of the same trade he stayed with them and worked, for they were tentmakers by trade” (Acts 18:2-3).
Aquila and Priscilla worked together in their tent-making business, and they served together in ministry. When we operate as a team in things like housework, childcare, or exercise, we can make tasks in our married life seem easier and more rewarding. Likewise, collaborating with our spouse in spiritual disciplines can strengthen our walk with Christ, as well as strengthen our marriage. As individuals, we grow spiritually through prayer, Bible study, engagement in our church community, and service. As couples, we can grow even more when we do these things together.
As a couple, discuss Joshua 1:9. Read the verse together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
As new challenges arise, we must decide how we will respond. Will we fall under pressure, be fearful of the future, or blame our spouse? Or will we turn to God, who is present in every situation? Let’s choose to look to God. Trusting Him makes us stronger, and He is the One who emboldens us to be courageous.
As a couple, discuss Joshua 4. Read the chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“So these stones shall be to the people of Israel a memorial forever” (Joshua 4:7).
Along the marital journey, we experience spiritual landmarks. Whether they are born from joyous events or times of sorrow, these milestones are to be remembered. Just as Joshua used stones as a memorial to the miracle of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River, we can commemorate significant events in which God has proven faithful to us. For example, we might hold a celebration, plant a tree, or return to the location of an event. Recalling God’s goodness in the past will help encourage and strengthen us so that we hold tight to God and to our spouse as we face the challenges of today.
As a couple, discuss Matthew 2. Read the chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy” (Matthew 2:10).
To reach the newborn King, the wise men may have journeyed nearly 1,000 miles across sweltering deserts. But when they found Jesus, they experienced the joy of His presence. Most of us don’t cross desert wastelands in our daily lives, but as we make our simple journeys through our neighborhoods and communities, does our countenance reflect the joy of knowing the King? Are others drawn to the Lord because they see His joy in us? Regardless of our circumstances, let’s seek the Lord and allow His presence to usher in joy.
As a couple, discuss Numbers 13. Read the chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“But Caleb quieted the people before Moses and said, ‘Let us go up at once and occupy it, for we are well able to overcome it'” (Numbers 13:30).
After the Israelites left Egypt, they headed toward the Promised Land. Twelve men set out as spies to explore Canaan, but most of them returned with more fear than hope. Caleb believed God’s promise that the land would be given to the Israelites, so he encouraged his people to believe. Like the Israelites, we have the choice of how we will perceive the opportunities God presents to us in the new year. We can let the challenges overwhelm us, or we can encourage each other to trust God.
As a couple, discuss Philippians 1. Read the chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment” (Philippians 1:9).
We don’t always notice changes in our spouse, particularly when we’re with him or her day in and day out, but we can be sure that changes are taking place. Nobody remains exactly the same. No matter how long we’ve been married, there are always new things to learn about our spouse. If we decide to study our spouse with the right attitude, knowing God has placed treasures in him or her that we have yet to discover, we can experience a deeper love for each other. Committing to searching our beloved for new reasons to love him or her can bring new life to our marriage.
The post Count Your Blessings: 12 Days of Devotions for Married Couples appeared first on Focus on the Family.
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The year is winding down, and a new one is fast approaching. As the days get shorter and colder, why not spend some quality time with your spouse by the fire or over a cup of hot cocoa, getting to know more about them? These devotions for married couples will help you do just that. These short devotions will help you connect with your spouse on a new level as the new year approaches.
12 Devotions for Married Couples This Holiday Season
Day 1: Count Your Blessings
Bible Verse:
Read 1 Samuel 12 together or individually, then focus your conversation on verse 24, discussing the questions that follow. “Only fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you” (1 Samuel 12:24).
Today’s Thought:
In today’s materialistic culture, it’s easy to feel less than blessed. As we look at neighbors and friends who have bigger homes or better jobs than we do, we may sometimes grow dissatisfied with our lives. But married couples do well to reflect on the things they know are blessings from the Lord, such as a thriving marriage, children, health, and daily provision. Take time to write a list of your shared blessings and see if it makes you more aware of what God has done for you.
Conversation:
- What do you consider one of your greatest personal blessings?
- In what ways do you feel God has blessed our marriage?
- What are some ways we can honor God by blessing others?
Day 2: Courage to obey
Bible Verse:
As a couple, discuss 1 Samuel 16. Read the chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“The LORD said to Samuel, ‘How long will you grieve over Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go. I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for myself a king among his sons.’ And Samuel said, ‘How can I go? If Saul hears it, he will kill me.’ ” 1 Samuel 16:1-2
Today’s Thought:
The Lord specifically told Samuel to go and anoint a new king, but the prophet was afraid. Most of us have never been in a situation where following the Lord could result in our death. Yet we are called to die to ourselves and follow the Lord daily—not a physical death, but perhaps the loss of a relationship or an opportunity. At times, obeying the Lord can be hard, but married couples can lean on each other for encouragement. We can remind our spouse of God’s promises and that He is the one who gives us the courage we need each day.
Conversation:
- What (if anything) scares you about following the Lord?
- Has the Lord ever prompted you to do or say something you didn’t do?
- Describe a time when you followed the Lord despite the consequences.
Day 3: Seeking unity
Bible Verse:
Talk about the book of Ephesians. Read each chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passages below and discuss the questions that follow.
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3).
Today’s Thought:
We’re clearly called to unity with our spouses. Sometimes, that means we need to let go of our own grievances. Other times, to be truly unified, we’re called to make peace. A divisive issue can cause more damage when it’s hidden. Squarely facing the issue—always with a humble and gentle spirit—is sometimes the only way to bring true peace. Unity develops when both husband and wife, even with their differences, see the issue in the same light through the guidance of the Spirit and realize that you’re on the same team.
Conversation:
- Do you prefer that we openly discuss difficult issues or keep them to ourselves to avoid conflict?
- What are the differences between keeping peace and making peace?
- How can we discern when to keep peace and when to make peace?
Day 4: Friendships matter
Bible Verse:
As a couple, discuss 2 Samuel 1:26. Read the verse together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“I am distressed for you, my brother Jonathan; very pleasant have you been to me; your love to me was extraordinary” (2 Samuel 1:26).
Today’s Thought:
In 2 Samuel 1:26, David had just learned about the death of his best friend, Jonathan. Their relationship was no ordinary friendship but more like family. But did you know that having close friends matters to your marriage? Friends can be a blessing to our marriages. They can encourage us to love our spouse well, hold us accountable when we fall short, and support our marriages when we feel like giving up. We can also do the same for them.
Conversation:
- Who are your closest friends?
- How might friendships enhance our marriage?
- What areas in our lives hold opportunities for building relationships with other people?
Day 5: Showing kindness
Bible Verse:
As a couple, discuss 2 Samuel 9. Read the verse together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“Is there not still someone of the house of Saul, that I may show the kindness of God to him?” (2 Samuel 9:3)
Today’s Thought:
When a husband and wife are getting to know each other, the extra special kindness they show each other comes easily and naturally. But as the years pass, that kindness often falls by the wayside. In a life busy with children, jobs, errands, and volunteering, we can get comfortable, trusting that our spouse will always be around. We may believe there’s no need—and no time—to go out of our way to show kindness. In 2 Samuel, King David went to great lengths to find a descendant of Saul so he could show the kindness of God to him. Like this great king, we should look for opportunities to be kind, knowing that these loving actions strengthen our marriage.
Conversation:
- How do you intentionally show kindness to others?
- Why do many married couples show kindness to other people more frequently than they do to each other?
- What are some ways we can be especially kind to each other every day?
Day 6: Authentic faith
Bible Verse:
As a couple, discuss Galatians 3:5 and 5:22-23. Read the verses together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“Does he who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you do so by works of the law, or by hearing with faith?” (Galatians 3:5)
Today’s Thought:
Sometimes, we mistakenly judge faith by superficial actions or by adherence to religious traditions. We may even set a standard of behavior by which we measure spiritual “progress.” These rules can lead believers to focus on outward behavior while moving away from a real relationship with the Savior. But when our faith is truly growing, the fruit of the Spirit will be evident in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23). The good behaviors will flow out of our love for God rather than obedience to religious laws.
Conversation:
- What religious or moral traditions did you learn growing up?
- What aspects of a person’s behavior show his or her faith in Christ?
- How can we help each other become more authentic in our faith?
Day 7: Healthy teamwork
Bible Verse:
As a couple, discuss Acts 18:2-3. Read the verses together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“And he [Paul] found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla.… And he went to see them, and because he was of the same trade he stayed with them and worked, for they were tentmakers by trade” (Acts 18:2-3).
Today’s Thought:
Aquila and Priscilla worked together in their tent-making business, and they served together in ministry. When we operate as a team in things like housework, childcare, or exercise, we can make tasks in our married life seem easier and more rewarding. Likewise, collaborating with our spouse in spiritual disciplines can strengthen our walk with Christ, as well as strengthen our marriage. As individuals, we grow spiritually through prayer, Bible study, engagement in our church community, and service. As couples, we can grow even more when we do these things together.
Conversation:
- What does healthy teamwork look like? Talk about a time when you experienced it.
- In which areas of our lives do we function well as a team?
- In what ways can we work together as a team toward spiritual growth?
Day 8: Be Courageous
Bible Verse:
As a couple, discuss Joshua 1:9. Read the verse together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
Today’s Thought
As new challenges arise, we must decide how we will respond. Will we fall under pressure, be fearful of the future, or blame our spouse? Or will we turn to God, who is present in every situation? Let’s choose to look to God. Trusting Him makes us stronger, and He is the One who emboldens us to be courageous.
Conversation:
- What’s the bravest thing you’ve ever done?
- Are you facing any challenges or uncertainties that make you feel anxious or scared?
- How is God asking us to step out and be courageous together?
Day 9: Remembering milestones
Bible Verse:
As a couple, discuss Joshua 4. Read the chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“So these stones shall be to the people of Israel a memorial forever” (Joshua 4:7).
Today’s Thought:
Along the marital journey, we experience spiritual landmarks. Whether they are born from joyous events or times of sorrow, these milestones are to be remembered. Just as Joshua used stones as a memorial to the miracle of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River, we can commemorate significant events in which God has proven faithful to us. For example, we might hold a celebration, plant a tree, or return to the location of an event. Recalling God’s goodness in the past will help encourage and strengthen us so that we hold tight to God and to our spouse as we face the challenges of today.
Conversation:
- What has been one of the most positive, life-changing events in your life?
- What experiences in our marriage have drawn us closer to God and to each other?
- How can we commemorate significant spiritual milestones in our marriage?
Day 10: His joy in us
Bible Verse:
As a couple, discuss Matthew 2. Read the chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy” (Matthew 2:10).
Today’s Thought
To reach the newborn King, the wise men may have journeyed nearly 1,000 miles across sweltering deserts. But when they found Jesus, they experienced the joy of His presence. Most of us don’t cross desert wastelands in our daily lives, but as we make our simple journeys through our neighborhoods and communities, does our countenance reflect the joy of knowing the King? Are others drawn to the Lord because they see His joy in us? Regardless of our circumstances, let’s seek the Lord and allow His presence to usher in joy.
Conversation:
- What are your most joyous Christmas memories?
- What steps can we take to increase joy in our marriage?
- What can we do as a couple to share God’s joy with others this Christmas?
Day 11: New year, new opportunities
Bible Verse:
As a couple, discuss Numbers 13. Read the chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“But Caleb quieted the people before Moses and said, ‘Let us go up at once and occupy it, for we are well able to overcome it'” (Numbers 13:30).
Today’s Thought:
After the Israelites left Egypt, they headed toward the Promised Land. Twelve men set out as spies to explore Canaan, but most of them returned with more fear than hope. Caleb believed God’s promise that the land would be given to the Israelites, so he encouraged his people to believe. Like the Israelites, we have the choice of how we will perceive the opportunities God presents to us in the new year. We can let the challenges overwhelm us, or we can encourage each other to trust God.
Conversation:
- What are your greatest hopes for the new year?
- What are the greatest challenges you are facing?
- How can I best encourage you?
Day 12: New year, new perspective
Bible Verse:
As a couple, discuss Philippians 1. Read the chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the passage below, discussing the questions that follow.
“And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment” (Philippians 1:9).
Today’s Thought:
We don’t always notice changes in our spouse, particularly when we’re with him or her day in and day out, but we can be sure that changes are taking place. Nobody remains exactly the same. No matter how long we’ve been married, there are always new things to learn about our spouse. If we decide to study our spouse with the right attitude, knowing God has placed treasures in him or her that we have yet to discover, we can experience a deeper love for each other. Committing to searching our beloved for new reasons to love him or her can bring new life to our marriage.
Conversation:
- What’s one thing you loved about me when we first began our relationship? What is one new thing you love about me now?
- What is something you’ve been surprised to learn about me?
- What can we do to learn more about each other?
The post Count Your Blessings: 12 Days of Devotions for Married Couples appeared first on Focus on the Family.
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