After we had been married nineteen years, Bob began to take his relationship with God much more seriously. We were anxious to build a mutual devotional life because we wanted to grow in our relationship with God and with each other. Our challenge was to find a prayer style that wouldn't squelch me or overwhelm or bore Bob. God gave me an idea to "interview" Bob. By asking him in the morning what he would be doing that day and what he'd like me to pray about, I could intercede for him in a way of his choosing.

Soon Bob picked up the pattern and began to interview me. In the process, he learned a great deal about what I did in the hours we were apart. If I had a difficult meeting ahead of me, I found relief in asking Bob to pray. His kind, affirming prayer would seem like an echo of my heavenly Father's encouragement.

The prayer-interview is a rich extra in our marriage. And as a result, our friendship as husband and wife has deepened.

•Does each of you feel that the other supports you in prayer? In what ways does that lighten your burdens?
•When have you felt sure of God's presence as you prayed together? Have you recognized God's answers to those prayers?

Passage for the day: 2 Chronicles 7:11-16

Verse for the day: 2 Chronicles 7:14

Additional Scripture Readings: Matthew 18:19-20; 1 John 5:14-15; 1 Timothy 2:1-4

Taken from the Couples' Devotional Bible - New International Version, published by Zondervan. Used by permission.

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