Devotions for Married Couples, by Dr. James Dobson

A chance encounter between two strangers in a New York City deli sparks a poignant observation about the power of human connection, as the author reflects on the quiet intimacy and comfort of an elderly couple holding hands. This introspective essay explores the distinction between physical intimacy and the deeper, more meaningful experience of making love, inviting readers to consider what it means to cultivate a truly fulfilling relationship.

A devoted wife shares a heartwarming account of a romantic getaway to Mammoth, California, where she and her husband reconnected in a weekend of skiing, candlelit dinners, and cozy evenings by the fire, rediscovering the love that sustained their marriage. By prioritizing quality time together and making an effort to reignite romance, couples can revitalize their relationships and enjoy a lifetime of warmth and connection.

A husband's heartfelt letter to his wife on their eighth wedding anniversary reveals a profound shift in their relationship, as he reflects on the ebbs and flows of romantic love and its ability to endure even on "ordinary" days. By exploring this theme, the couple invites readers to consider how they can cultivate serene love that surpasses fleeting emotional highs.

Revisiting the places and events from your courtship or newlywed days can rekindle the spark in a stagnant marriage, allowing couples to relive fond memories and create new experiences together. By recreating first dates, revisiting favorite haunts, and making time for shared activities, couples can reignite their connection and strengthen their bond.

A near-fatal car crash on the eve of a wedding serves as a poignant reminder that timing is everything, particularly when it comes to speaking words that can either heal or harm a relationship. This personal anecdote from a marriage counselor offers practical wisdom on how to protect romance and kindness in marriage, even in the face of criticism and adversity.

The Song of Songs offers a profound exploration of romance, revealing its essence as a powerful blend of intimacy, emotional excitement, and devotion that ultimately culminates in the unbreakable bond of married love. Through this ancient biblical text, readers can gain valuable insights into the nature of romance and its transformative power, inspiring a deeper understanding of what it means to love and be loved.

Understanding the nuances of romance in marriage is crucial for avoiding misunderstandings and keeping the flame of love burning brightly, as men and women often define it differently, with women focusing on emotional connection and men prioritizing physical attraction and respect. By recognizing and embracing these differences, couples can cultivate a deeper understanding of each other's needs and desires, ultimately strengthening their relationship.

Bill Hybels, author of "Romance," recounts his journey learning the art of romance in marriage after discovering that his wife's lukewarm responses to his flower-giving gestures were a sign of deeper dissatisfaction with his lack of effort and thoughtfulness. Through a heart-to-heart conversation, Lynne reveals what she truly craves from her husband, revealing that true romance requires investment of time, energy, and attention to create a meaningful connection.

A devoted Christian mother recounts a harrowing experience of being terrorized by fear, only to discover that God had protected her family from a burglary attempt, and shares the lesson she learned about trusting in divine providence. Through her personal story, Dobson reflects on the biblical promise of God's presence as an "ever-present help in trouble" and finds comfort in His faithfulness amidst uncertainty.

When life is good, it's easy to forget God - but this can lead to arrogance and self-sufficiency, as Jesus warns in a parable about a rich farmer who prioritizes earthly pleasures over spiritual dependence. By recognizing the dangers of "blessedness" and making a conscious effort to trust and praise God daily, we can avoid falling into the same trap and cultivate a deeper sense of devotion.

As the stresses of life threaten to pull couples apart, a surprising source of strength can provide peace and deliverance - trusting in God's promises. By recognizing marriage as a triangle with the Lord at its apex, couples can tap into His strength and experience joy, mercy, and provision in even the toughest times.

As the Bible warns, placing our deepest faith in human beings can lead to severe disappointment, but what if we instead rely on God's power to build an unshakeable bond of trust in marriage? By committing ourselves to live according to God's ways and seeking His guidance, couples can develop a foundation of trust that is rooted in His unwavering character.

A renowned author shares a personal story of finding guidance in the Bible, highlighting its enduring relevance in modern life and encouraging readers to prioritize Scripture reading as a couple. By exploring practical applications and insights from the Bible, individuals can deepen their trust in God's Word and apply its wisdom to everyday challenges.

Learning to trust God requires a deeper understanding of the difference between faith and trust, as well as the courage to put our lives in His care despite uncertainty. By exploring what it means to have remarkable trust, readers can discover how this essential step can bring freedom from anxiety and deepen their relationship with God.

A mother's life was in disarray as she faced mounting medical bills and job loss, but her young daughter Sarah's innocence and self-acceptance brought her a renewed sense of hope and faith in God's presence. As the author reflects on this experience, she shares how Sarah's unwavering trust in herself and others reminded her that God is always ready to carry our burdens and provide for us in times of need.