Devotional Archives for NIV Devotions for Couples
Joining together in praise with others brings a depth of joy and authenticity that is hard to achieve alone, as Psalm 95 reminds us through its call to "come, let us sing" and "let us shout aloud." By worshiping with others, we can cultivate a more nuanced and humble expression of our faith, one that prepares us for both triumph and struggle.
As a pastor and parent, author Wayne Brouwer shares his personal struggles with finding God in loss and suffering, echoing the emotions of Psalm 13. Through his story, he reminds us that even in the darkest moments, our God is present, loving, and faithful, offering hope and reassurance to those who trust in Him.
A pastor's encounter with a troubled husband, whose wife had suffered a traumatic brain injury altering her personality, reveals the power of faith in the face of uncertainty. Through his testimony, the husband finds strength in his vows and an unwavering trust in God, even when life seems darkest.
A couple's marriage was on the brink of collapse due to infidelity and financial struggles, but a life-threatening illness brought them back together as they discovered God's presence and power in their darkest hour. Through Psalm 46, we see how trusting in God's strength and refuge can help couples weather even the most turbulent times, ultimately leading to a stronger marriage.
The biblical story of Esther and Vashti serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of personal courage in marriage, highlighting the need for mutual submission and respect while also acknowledging the value of saying no to behavior that compromises one's integrity. By examining this ancient tale, couples can gain valuable insights into navigating moral disagreements and maintaining a unified relationship.
The influence of others on our lives is profound, as seen in the story of King Joash, who was heavily influenced by his priest Jehoiada, but ultimately struggled with decision-making. By learning to think for themselves, individuals can break free from the need for external guidance and develop a lifelong pattern of trusting God for direction, as exemplified by couples James and Elaine who learned to make their own decisions through a church group's approach.
As you prepare to embark on your own journey of building a life together, consider the wisdom of David's words to his son Solomon, who built a temple worthy of the Lord. By following God's plan for marriage and persevering through struggles, couples can create a strong foundation for a lifelong commitment that models God's own love and manifests His presence in their lives.
The story of Joash, a young king rescued by his aunt Jehosheba from the clutches of her wicked mother Athaliah, offers a powerful exploration of family dynamics and the complexities of human relationships. This emotionally charged tale serves as a reminder that even in the midst of dysfunction and abuse, there can be heroes who step in to save the day, and that extended families can be a source of strength and blessing.
A biblical tale of deception and corruption serves as a cautionary warning about the dangers of compromising one's values in marriage, highlighting how even well-intentioned actions can lead to devastating consequences. By examining the story of Jeroboam and his wife, readers will gain valuable insights into the importance of moral accountability and the transformative power of honesty in relationships.
King David's act of kindness towards Jonathan's son Mephibosheth demonstrates that loving those you love can extend beyond personal relationships to include the families and friends of your spouse. By making loving overtures to those in each other's world, couples can honor, love, and serve one another more fully.