The official newsletter of Marriage Partnership magazine
Thursday, October 18, 2007
"Do they love the Lord?"
This tends to be the first question I ask of friends when they tell me they're getting married. Of course, I want to know if they're happy. I'm interested in what they share in common with their significant other. I wonder if they get along with the in-laws. But to me, the most important thing is whether or not they are spiritually compatible.
An oft-quoted Scripture at weddings is Ecclesiastes 4:12: "A cord of three strands is not easily broken." This clearly communicates that a marriage centered on Christ is able to stand the test of time. When Christians are married, their relationship is a trio—it includes both the spouses and Christ.
Marriage Partnership was curious as to how our readers' relationships with God factor into their marriages. We surveyed more than 2,000 couples to find out what spiritual activities they participate in together. Keep reading to discover how married people are connecting on a soul level.
- Other factors can get in the way of marital intimacy, such as internet addiction or in-law interference. Our "Couple Counsel" columnists have advice for handling these obstacles in a healthy way.
- And be sure to let us know your favorite spouses' spiritual activity by voting in our new poll.
Be sure to stop by MarriagePartnership.com for more articles and ideas for cultivating spiritual intimacy with your spouse. May this week—and every week—be marked by a commitment to placing Jesus Christ at the center of your marriage.
Blessings,
Elizabeth Diffin
for Marriage Partnership
To reply to this newsletter: marriage@christianitytoday.com
advertisement
 SPIRITUALITY
Soulful Connections
How close are you and your spouse spiritually? MP reports how couples are living out their faith.
by Kate V. Bryant
My husband and I feel the spiritual aspect of our marriage is pretty healthy. We make it a point to pray together every day, read the Bible together every evening after dinner, and attend a couples' Bible study together every Wednesday night. On Sunday, we usually go out for lunch after church for the sole purpose of discussing our pastor's message and applying it to our lives.
Okay, I repent. Everything except the first sentence of that opening paragraph is a lie!
More …
COUPLE COUNSEL
"Too Much Computer Time!"
Also: "Mother-in-law Mayhem"
by Gary and Carrie Oliver
 The Power of a Praying Wife
Every woman who desires a closer relationship with her
husband will appreciate Stormie Omartian's practical
advice on praying for specific areas of a husband's life.
|
 Love and Respect
Without love from him, she reacts without respect. And without respect from her, he reacts without love. Learn to break this cycle and live together as God intended.
|
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Not only will you save time by shopping online for family-friendly gifts, books, movies, and music, but you'll also appreciate our famous low prices. Stop by today! |
 Subscribe to Men of Integrity
From Christianity Today International, in association with Promise Keepers, this bimonthly magazine addresses issues men face and includes daily devotionals by well-known Christian leaders. Request a FREE trial issue today! |
 The Gift of the Blessing
The Gift of the Blessing is a powerful book no family should be without. Within its pages, you'll find solid, practical advice on how to be a blessing, as well as how to insure your parents, spouse, and children all feel the security of family approval. |
The Power of Praise
Mark Twain once said he could live a full month on nothing but a single compliment. Yet all compliments aren't created equal. Check out these four types of compliments and the effect they can have on your mate.
- POSSESSION. "That's a beautiful dress," or "I really love that tie." Though they tend to be superficial, these compliments are a great place to start.
- APPEARANCE. Saying "You look beautiful," or "That shirt really shows off your eyes," is a little more personal and communicates that you find your mate desirable.
- BEHAVIOR. People like to be recognized for a job well done. "You're such a wonderful cook" communicates not only appreciation, but love.
- CHARACTER. The most powerful and personal of compliments, this one recognizes traits such as kindness, generosity, or wisdom. "You're the most selfless person I know," praises not just what your spouse does, but who she is.
Adapted from 20 Surprisingly Simple Rules and Tools for a Great Marriage by Steve Stephens (Tyndale)
Marriage Connection
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What is your favorite spiritual activity to participate in with your spouse?
- Prayer
- Bible reading
- Attending church
- Discussing spiritual things
- Serving in a ministry
- Other
Vote here, and see how your answer compares to others'.
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Have you and your spouse ever sought professional help for your marriage?
- Yes, we've gone to couples' therapy: 49%
- No, we don't need professional counsel: 25%
- No, but we'd like to: 20%
- Yes, we're involved in another program: 5%
- Yes, we've had life coaching: 1%
Total votes: 323
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