Praying Together

Our Stake President (church leader) recently said that he has never had a couple that is praying together every day come to him saying that they want a divorce.  He advised everyone in the congregation to pray together every day as a couple to ensure the happiness and well-being of your marriage.  He stated that the prayer you say together as a couple should be different from other prayers because this prayer between the two of you should focus on your relationship and your spouse.  Take turns saying the prayer aloud, and when it is your turn, thank Heavenly Father for your spouse.  Thank Him for all the good things you love and appreciate about your spouse.  Ask Him to bless your spouse when needed.  It is a special prayer of gratitude for each other and your relationship.  This prayer helps you to express love and appreciation for each other, and to see each other from a more eternal, meaningful viewpoint.  As a counselor, I agree 100% that praying together as a couple every day will strengthen and protect your relationship.  It will give you an eternal perspective that can sometimes otherwise be lacking.  It will help you to remember why you love your spouse, and will remind you of all the positive things about your relationship.  When you are faced with difficulties and trials, it will give you a sense of unity and purpose.  When life is smooth sailing, it will give you a deeper sense of love and gratitude for each other.  Praying together will help to keep your relationship strong and healthy.  If you're not already in the habit, start today.  You will notice a difference in the quality of your marriage, and probably a positive difference in your feelings towards your spouse too. 

Prayer

Thanks to Tamara who mentioned this quote in one of her comments.  I love it...

"Pray for the love which allows you to see the good in your companion. Pray for the love that makes weaknesses and mistakes seem small. Pray for the love to make your companion’s joy your own. Pray for the love to want to lessen the load and soften the sorrows of your companion."     ~ Henry B. Eyring

Sometimes it is hard to remember to pray for our marriage and our spouse, but it can make a big difference.  I think a huge problem is when a person no longer wants to pray for their marriage or their spouse.  Feelings of anger, hurt, and betrayal can make us feel that way sometimes.  We must remember that when we feel like we don't want to pray is when we need to pray the most.  If you have no desire to pray for your marriage, then why not start there?  Pray for help.  Pray for the desire to want to work on your marriage and make things better.  I know from experience that prayer can accomplish miracles.  Prayer can soften hard hearts and help us to love, forgive, trust, and be happy.