Want to get your day started off on the right foot? Get in the habit of going to God first thing every morning.

That’s what Jesus did. “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” (Mark 1:35). Morning prayer has a way of wonderfully focusing your thinking and your actions.

The great pastor E.M. Bounds said it well: “He who fritters away the early morning, its opportunity and freshness, in other pursuits than seeking God will make poor headway seeking Him the rest of the day. If God is not first in our thoughts and efforts in the morning, He will be in the last place the remainder of the day.”

In your quiet moments with the Lord
 

• Thank Him for your many blessings, answers to prayer, and especially the gift of your spouse – a lifelong friend and partner.
• Ask Him to direct your decisions today in a way that will strengthen your marriage.
• Listen for His response – in His Word, in the wisdom of others, or through circumstances.
• Pray for your spouse and his or her specific needs. Is your spouse grappling with discouragement, worry, dissatisfaction or impatience? Ask God to show you how to help your spouse deal with the specific challenges of the day ahead.
• Also ask God to show you what your spouse needs from you – because he or she may not tell you directly, or even know how to express it.

At first it may be challenging to be intentional about consistent morning prayer, but your marriage will quickly reap the benefits. The wisdom and peace you will receive as a result of your time with God each day will add tremendous value to all your relationships. Praying for your husband or wife is another way that you can lead a life of love.

Tell Us

How does prayer make a difference in your life? We’d love to hear from you. Post your comments below.