Prayer to build a purposeful quiet time with your spouse
By Keri Eichberger
Bible Reading:
“So all of us who have removed that veil can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. -2 Corinthians 3:18, NLT
I was fortunate to have parents who were modelled after a solid marriage. Most importantly, biblical marriage. In fact, before I met my husband, I was well aware of working to make our union a top priority in our home. I barely knew how difficult it was. As soon as we intertwine our lives, our different personalities and interests, and all our past baggage, it became clear. But while stubbornness and pride draw us in many directions that sometimes cause rifts and debate, our commitment to serving each other and God, our commitment to serving each other, to a better future, and our desire to live in unity, peace and enjoyment of each other’s gifts, have always maintained our bond.
Hard work. It’s nothing but hard work on both ends. But if you ask me now, 20 years from now, what you say here is my tenacity to the growth of my own faith that I am the important secret of success. When my husband and wife expectations seemed unmet, I learned to seek and give and serve the Lord without expectation. Just as I learned the love of Jesus. When Jesus became my model and motivation. And the miracle has continued ever since.
Eventually, my expectations have exceeded. I stopped waiting for Mike to meet in the middle. I’m waiting for him to ask me on the date, plan a trip and demand quality time. Instead, I asked, arranged and prioritized moments that I knew would be key to our connection and growth. And what is beautiful is that God began to work with him through me. Not only is he influenced by my walks and growth, he loves every part of my initiative and now he sometimes plans and prioritizes our unity. This is God’s blessing. Because it is very helpful for us that we have the importance of investing in us as life becomes separate and we become more and more demands for parenting, work and service to others increase.
How does this all resonate with you? Have you specified a quiet time with your spouse? Would you have more? Maybe you are eager to care about the people that care about it more. I felt all these feelings. And with thought, I had to learn to focus on the greatest commandments when these feelings returned. To love God, to love others (the “other” is my husband), and to remember what happens when I do. And when I focus on loving God better – cultivating my own personal relationships and love for him – my heart and soul soften, and fresh love flows out as I see others through his eyes. As I see my husband through his eyes. And I will become more aware of how to serve like Jesus. I stop waiting for my husband to offer to pray for us, and humbly ask how I can pray for him.
I begin to reflect and radiate the light of our Lord. And so is when you turn your face towards him. Friends, people in your way will notice when we fill up and reflect Jesus’ love. Change them. It will change your connection. And even their wish to be with you. You change your entire relationship with him many times recently. And you build beautiful things as you continue to commit to your love. First, God, then your spouse, and all the other Lords have blessed you two. I pray that you will be encouraged to reflect your own personal pursuit and boldly on your beloved Lord. The deliberate time Jesus showed. It will enhance your connection and create beautiful blessings in your relationship. And throughout your life.
Let’s pray:
Lord God, you are the gift of all good gifts. And Christian marriage is one of your greatest gifts. I know that your love and presence alone is enough, but you long for me to love you like your son, Jesus. I confess that I am not following the example of humble servant love without always expecting. But I know this is where the door opens to the connection I’m looking forward to. Everything I want from the people around me is flowing from you. And when I first open my heart to you, learn from you, and love like you, I find it. I am grateful that I unite with those who are blessed to be a living example of the love of my servants. Help me prioritize my life, especially my spouse’s relationships. You are helping me to create something solid with you as an unwavering center, and I praise you. Your mighty name, Amen.
Photo Credit: ©GetTyimages/Ryanjlane
Keri Eichberger is a Kentucky girl who loves Jesus. She is married to her best friend Mike and has a full house with five children. After writing for years of online audiences, Keri was ordained through the Southeast Christian Church, bringing full-time ministry to life. She is the author who soars with those who conquered and overcome Win Over Forse: Conquer what You, and is passionate about sharing faith-filled encouragement through prayer writing. Connect with Keri on Keriechberger.com or on Instagram.
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