Devotions for Married Couples, by Dr. James Dobson

Retired couples and stay-at-home spouses can fall into four common traps that drain their joy, including isolation, inactivity, self-pity, and despair, but avoiding these pitfalls requires intentional effort and connection with others; by recognizing the dangers of these traps and taking proactive steps to avoid them, individuals can rediscover purpose and meaning in life.

The notion of "victimhood" has become a pervasive cultural phenomenon, leading to division and hopelessness among the majority, while Scripture offers a better way by encouraging gratitude and focus on those less fortunate. By recognizing the destructive nature of victimization, individuals can break free from paralyzing blame and instead cultivate resilience and joy in the face of adversity.

When troubles seem insurmountable, reaching out to someone else can be a powerful antidote to despair, as sharing another's pain can often shed some of our own burdens. By helping others, Christians can discover that lifting the weight of another's load is also a means of lightening their own, fostering a profound paradox at the heart of the Christian life.

Charlie Wedemeyer, a former high school teacher and football coach, has defied the odds of ALS by choosing to focus on his faith and inspiring thousands with his story of resilience and hope. Through his remarkable journey, Charlie shares valuable lessons on how to find strength in suffering and make the most of life's challenges.

Living a life of happiness despite everyday challenges requires a profound dependence on Jesus Christ, who can empower individuals to choose their reaction to life's difficulties and respond with positivity and contentment. By examining one's attitude and reactions to adversity, Christians can cultivate a stronger relationship with God and grow in their ability to navigate life's ups and downs with faith and optimism.

A chance encounter with a Salvation Army bell ringer sparks a moment of profound joy and connection to God for the author, who is struggling to find energy and meaning in the holiday season. This heartwarming story explores how the simple act of giving and receiving can lead to a deeper sense of joy and spiritual connection.

The biblical account of Queen Esther's courageous approach to her husband King Xerxes serves as a powerful example of the transformative power of honor in marriage, demonstrating how sincere respect can lead to remarkable outcomes. By embracing this principle, couples can create a more loving and positive home environment, even when relationships may be strained or distant.

As a child, your opinion of your parents is shaped by the relationship between them, with each parent influencing what you think of the other; now, it's time to flip this script and show honor to those who have raised you. By openly expressing love and admiration for your partner in front of your children, you can set a powerful example that will pay off for years to come.

A husband's well-intentioned surprise gift can quickly turn into a marital disaster when his partner is having a terrible day. By understanding the importance of honoring one's mate, couples can learn to show love and appreciation in ways that are meaningful and enjoyable for their partner.

Philippians 4:8 reminds us that true strength lies not in tearing down others, but in building each other up. By shifting our focus from mocking to honoring, couples can create a more positive and supportive environment, both in public and behind closed doors.

Taking your partner for granted can lead to feelings of unappreciation and even infidelity, as many individuals seek recognition outside the home; by showing genuine appreciation for your spouse's talents and services, you can strengthen your marriage and foster a deeper sense of respect. By making honoring each other a reflex action, couples can avoid self-centeredness and cultivate a more fulfilling and loving relationship.

The Bible emphasizes the importance of honoring one another, particularly in marriage, yet many couples neglect to express gratitude for their partners' daily sacrifices. By reevaluating what it means to honor each other, individuals can cultivate a deeper sense of appreciation and respect in their relationships.

A husband planned a surprise party for his wife's graduation, but with a twist - the celebration was all about her sacrifices and dedication to their shared goal, leaving him speechless in gratitude. This heartwarming story highlights the importance of honoring one's spouse and elevating them before others, a vital aspect of a healthy and loving marriage.

Building trust in marriage is crucial for its success, much like constructing a small house out of dominos, where every aspect is connected and the placement of each domino matters. Sharing intimate secrets with one's partner can be a powerful way to deepen trust and intimacy, but it requires careful consideration and vulnerability.

Sharing intimate details with your partner can strengthen your bond, but beware of the fine line between openness and manipulation, as revealed in a personal anecdote about a company president's wife who felt insecure after her husband shared his office flirtations with her. By cultivating trust, commitment, and open communication, couples can transform their relationship into a deep and abiding friendship that brings joy and fulfillment to both partners.