Why Leah and I Have Devotionals

For several years, Leah and I were “hit and miss” (at best) at having devotional time together. Sure, we prayed at meals and other times, and we talked about things. We were not good, however, at having a “set time” for the two of us to think about our relationship with God and with each other.

That all changed about 2 years ago. We decided that we both like to read, so why  not read together? (Novel concept, I know!) We chose to focus on marriage and parenting for the most part. Each Wednesday night, after the kids are in bed, we sit together and read and discuss a book on these issues. At other times, we have listened to some material.

Obviously, we might change “topics” in the future, but it is so easy to let our kids be the “center” of our home instead of putting things in the proper order: God, spouse, then kids. Reading and being together for these few minutes (our devotionals are usually about 30 minutes) have helped us work on that perspective.

In case you were wondering, we have read the following books together so far:

1. You’re Singing My Song (Glenn and Cindy Colley). We chose this book first because we had both read it before and were familiar with it. This is the book I always give to couples that I counsel before their marriage. Basic in concepts, Glenn and Cindy give several blunt but practical tips for couples.

2. Marriage and the Christian Home (Dr. Ted Burleson). This book, designed for classroom study, was helpful because of its deeply-rooted Biblical basis. While certain chapters might have not “fit” us at the time, reading it helped us ground ourselves in Scripture.

3. Successful Christian Parenting (John MacAurthur). After the first 1/3 of this book, it got good. MacArthur’s Calvinistic slant came through in this book far too much, but, once that section of the book was done, there were some helpful pointers. (Note: the book has also been published under the title What the Bible Says about Parenting.)

4. Sheet Music (Dr. Kevin Lehman). A helpful book from a Christian perspective on sexuality in marriage. Lehman is able to keep the book helpful and serious, while saying some things that are lighthearted. I really feel this is a must-read, as it causes couples to discuss this area of marriage that is far too often never talked about.

5. The 5 Love Languages (Gary Chapman). We just finished this book, and it has really helped us. While there were no real surprises as to what each other’s “language” was, reading about them was very informative. I would recommend this book to pre-married couples, too.

Additionally, we have listened to a few podcasts from FamilyLife Today as well as a series on the Song of Solomon from Denton Bible Church (find this 6-part series on iTunes by searching for “Denton Bible Church Love Songs” and thank me later!).

These nights have become part of the “culture” of our house, and I am so thankful. I really believe they have helped our marriage, and I pray they will continue to help us grow closer together in the future. Why not pick a night each week, put the kids to bed, and start learning and growing together. You’ll be glad you did!

—————————–

How do you and your spouse have your devotional times? What tips would you give for other “studies” (besides family issues) for a couple to undertake?