As we pursue revitalization in our churches, it’s important to remember that assessing the health of our marriages is imperative. For the man involved in ministry, his marriage can sometimes be neglected due to the busyness of ministering to others. Focusing on maintaining a godly marriage is not only of first importance — it is the most important ministry we will ever do.

With a new season upon us, bringing cooler weather, changes in scenery and vibrant colors, let’s ensure that our marriages are the first priority. Let the change of seasons bring about anticipation, excitement and, frankly, a chemistry of love in your marriage. A few changes in your routines, habits, words, dates and devotional life may be just what your marriage needs. Anticipate that God will do great things.

Here are a few simple suggestions that may help revitalize and grow your marriage:

C.H.A.N.G.E.
Create: Create open spaces in your calendar to date your spouse. Be creative in making your date night unique and special. Remember, it isn’t about the money spent; it’s about the memory made. Your spouse needs to know they matter more than other people or things. And please, turn off your phone!

Hold: Hold and cherish each other. It is OK to show affection. Hold hands, hug each other, have honest heart to heart talks, make harmonious music together and share hearty laughs. These are all components of a healthy marriage. Everyone has a heartfelt desire to be held close and honored.

Apply: Apply prayer! Prayer changes and transforms hearts. If you want to see streams of refreshment and joy return to your marriage, reach out and touch your spouse and pray out loud for them. By applying God’s principles in your marriage, you can find joy and healing.

New: Try some new things. Take up new hobbies like bicycling, dance classes, gardening or hiking. Who knows, it just might be your new thing!

Give: Do you know your spouse’s love language? Give generously! Each of your love tanks will be filled and your marriage will grow stronger.

Exalt: Encourage one another. Let the world see, hear and know the love you have for your spouse. Experience how good the Lord is and the amazing changes He can bring about.

Isaiah 43:19 says, “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.” (NLT).

It’s a new season. Let’s enjoy it together!