One of the best things about marriage is the power it offers two people to accomplish more together than they could ever achieve alone. It’s much more than just 1+1=2. Something exponential occurs when a man and a woman harness their power and unlock their purpose as a married couple. But to really achieve this kind of power together, you have to unlock your purpose together. Here are a few initial steps to get you on your way.
Step 1: Ask God for guidance as you explore your future together
You are two smart people who can make good decisions on your own; you each have a good mind and a conscience and a love for each other, so you’re all set, right? Well, not quite. Despite the fact that you enjoy all of the decision-making tools that God has given you, don’t neglect to ask Him for help as you travel your shared journey.
Step 2: Pray for each other.
In addition to seeking divine guidance as a couple, each of you should also ask God to bring direction and wisdom to your spouse. There’s something truly bonding that takes place between two people when they consistently and fervently pray for each other. If you can pray for each other day after day, with each of you asking God to protect, guide, and lead the other, God’s power will pervade your marriage and lives. Plus, this unswerving devotion to praying for each other will keep you emotionally connected to each other, since you will be on each other’s minds and hearts frequently and consistently.
Step 3: Hold a monthly “compass meeting”
Once a month, schedule a time when you sit down for a compass meeting. It might be at the kitchen table or during a road trip, or you might go out for a nice dinner and talk at a restaurant. The purpose of your compass meeting is to create the opportunity for the two of you to talk about what God is revealing to each of you about life’s purpose, both your individual purposes as well as your purpose as a couple. Ask yourselves these questions: What am I doing with my life? Is it pleasing to God? What about our lives as a couple? Are we serving others? Is there a way we could be more loving? More giving? More generous or forgiving? The clearer you can get—both as individuals and as a couple—regarding what God wants for your lives, the more fully you’ll be able to live out that purpose in a way that pleases Him and brings joy and meaning to each of you and to your marriage.
