We have attended more marriage retreats than we can count. Some in hard-to-find, out-of-the-way, rustic settings. Others in posh hotels or resort getaways. No matter where they are and how they are structured, they always serve the same purpose—renewal. They are dedicated to improving, refreshing, and strengthening marriages. On some occasions, the organizers of the retreat will even offer an opportunity for couples to renew their wedding vows.
And don’t think that a couple who routinely speaks at couple’s retreats isn’t in need of renewal either. To be honest, this month of September has been challenging for us. We keep saying to each other, “Once we get though September …” Of course, we are almost there and, yes, we’re feeling depleted. Like every other couple, we are moving at the speed of life and need renewal. In fact, a couple who often speaks into our lives, our own marriage mentors, recently asked us: “When was the last time you had time to let your souls catch up – just the two of you?” We looked at each other and both laughed out loud. We knew what the other was thinking. We had a two-hour layover last week in O’Hare Airport between flights to speak at a church in Alabama and we squeezed in a sit-down Italian dinner. It was as close as we got to a date night this month. Sad, but true. That’s when our mentors encouraged us to take a leisurely 3-mile walk around Green Lake in Seattle. And we did just that this week. No kids. No cell phones. Just the two of us walking hand-in-hand – in the drizzling rain – talking about the things that matter most to us and whispering a little prayer here and there, if only to ourselves. The weather didn’t deter us, by the way. If anything it helped us renew our strength. Walking in the rain revived our spirits, restored our focus, and helped us reclaim our relationship. In short, this little bit of intention, encouraged by our mentors, helped us lean into the Lord for renewal.
Whether vows are renewed or not, every couple, no matter how strong and secure, needs occasional renewal in their relationship. We all need time to recharge our emotional and relational batteries. We need inspiration. And don’t think that newlyweds still enjoying the “honeymoon phase” don’t need the same thing. “Even youths will become weak and tired” (v. 30). All of us need to renew our strength—no matter our age or stage.
So take a moment to consider how you and your partner do just that. Study together Isaiah 40:31, and take to heart what boosts your marriage vitality; it’s a truth that is introduced by the little word but: “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.”
Related Resources
Have you heard about our new online certification program to become a Marriage Mentor couple? You’re going to love this! Not only will you learn how to uplift, encourage and renew other couples, you’ll experience a boomerang of blessing in your own marriage. What is Marriage Mentoring? It’s simple. It occurs when a seasoned couple comes alongside a less experienced couple to help them learn from their experience. And our new online Marriage Mentoring Academy will give you everything you need to do this successfully. Watch the two-minute video to see what it’s all about.
To watch the video, click here.
The last time I saw the both of you was at Ridgecrest in Ashville NC. Yes, I agree that we do not take the time to invest in each other. Tom and I, like you find it difficult to set aside time for each other. Thank you for the encouragement to do so. I need to be creative in developing time with Tom.
Grateful, Mary
We are in the 3rd week of your book in our bible study group at church. Thanks so far!!!!
Which book are you reading, Barb? So glad to hear you’re enjoying it!