When Linda and I were raising our kids we had a date every week, going out for coffee or to breakfast or lunch. Splitting a meal kept the cost down and we exchanged babysitting with friends.
We discussed our goals and family plans, things we were facing with our children, strategies to take, concerns we had with each other, the kids and other subjects. At times we brought a book and would read a few pages out loud to each other over our meal.
This was our time away from the demands of home to pray together while holding hands, to look each other in the eye and give words of affirmation. Giving focused attention to each other filled our emotional tanks – and we were ready to go back home to love our kids and tackle the world.
I Peter 3:7, “In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat her with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God’s gift of new life. If you don’t treat her as you should, your prayers will not be heard.” (NLT)
Having this time with your spouse is a microcosm of keeping fresh in our relationship with Jesus Christ. When we set aside time to meet with Him then our spiritual tanks are full to allow Him to do His work through us.
John 15:4, “Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful apart from me.” (NLT)
It can work if you make it work – keep fresh in your relationship with Christ and with your wife, His honored gift to you!