Ignite Your Marriage: 7 Days to Deeper Love & Lasting Connectionنموونە

The Priority of Marriage

When we first got married, we had all the time in the world for each other. But then kids came along, work got busier, and "us time" started slipping away. So, we created the 52.2 rule: one date night a week and two nights away together every year. It's not fancy; it's intentional. When we prioritize our marriage, everything else benefits—including the kids.

Lisa and I have a saying: "Spouses stay, kids leave." And that's the truth! One day, the kids will pack up, leave the nest, and probably swipe your favorite coffee mug in the process. But here's the catch: if you've put your marriage on autopilot for 18 years, what's left when the kids are gone? A strong marriage doesn't just happen—it's built intentionally, right in the middle of carpools, deadlines, and, let's be honest, endless scrolling on your phone.

Studies show the average person spends 3+ hours a day on their phone. Three hours! That's more than we probably spend talking to our spouse in a week. There's even a term for this: "Technoference"—when technology disrupts relationships. Sound familiar? It's easy to let work emails, social media, and Netflix take priority over real connection. But here's what Lisa and I have learned: distractions are thieves. They rob your marriage of the time and attention it needs to grow.

When we first got married, we had all the time in the world for each other. But then kids came along, work got busier, and "us time" started slipping away. So, we created the 52.2 rule: one date night a week and two nights away together every year. It's not fancy; it's intentional. Because when we prioritize our marriage, everything else benefits—including the kids.

Think about it: if your car needed an oil change, you wouldn't just say, "I'll deal with it when the engine explodes." You'd handle it! Marriage works the same way. Small, purposeful acts—like turning off your phone at dinner, giving a heartfelt compliment, or planning a date—are the "oil changes" that keep it running smoothly.

Here's your challenge: do one intentional thing today to prioritize your spouse. It could be a handwritten note, an undistracted conversation, or a spontaneous hug. Marriage is God's design, and when we build it His way, it doesn't just survive—it thrives (and makes those empty nest years way more fun).

Prayer: Father, help us keep our priorities straight. Show us where we need to make changes. Give us the wisdom to put our marriage first, right after you. Amen.

Reflection:

· What often takes priority over your marriage?

· How can you better prioritize your spouse today?

· What practical step can you take to show your spouse they're a priority?