When we expect our partner to meet all our needs, We inevitably fail each other and get hurt, causing our marriage to spiral downward.
When we look to God to meet our needs for significance, security, and self-esteem, we are better able to give to each other.
Praying Together
• helps us connect with each other in a meaningful way
• ensure prayers are vertical, not horizontal and manipulative
• five to ten minutes a dad is better than one hour every month
• ask each other, What can I pray for you today?"
• accept the same requests day after day
• draw on God's promises from the Bible and start with thankfulness
• don't give up even if you have young children
• the closer each of us is individually in our relationship with God, the closer we are to each other as husband and wife
• if one has upset the other, say sorry before praying
• be deliberate and plan it into your schedule
• if you're not comfortable praying, find other ways to connect and support each other on a daily basis
Question:Ask your husband or wife if there's one thinq they’re concerned about at the moment. Then if you are comfortable prayinq, pray for each other. Otherwise, express your support in some other way.
Question 2:Complete the Worksheet found under "Study Guide"
The four seasons of marriage (not every marriage will go through each stage, but the principles apply to all marriages)
Spring
early years of marriage
season of discovery and excitement
initial infatuation will wear off at some stage
the greatest need is to accept each other
Summer
season of increased activity and demands
may become parents during this season
may face pressures of infertility
careers can be more demanding
the greatest need is to give time to the marriage relationship
Reflect on what you’ve heard so far. Talk together about the pressures you’ve worked through until now in your relationship, and the pressures you’re currently facing.
