In a recent devotion, I mentioned that my wife Pam and I pray together each evening. This generated some interesting responses and it started me thinking. Pam and I only began this practice after we had been married many years. I wonder how many other actively Christian couples, who’ve been married a long time, don’t make this practice a part of life together. Don’t get me wrong—Pam and I have always prayed together; but we have not always set aside a time each day to do it. After all, the Bible doesn’t specifically command this practice. Today, let’s consider a familiar passage from Matthew’s Gospel which can help us put this into perspective:

And I tell you…whenever two of you on earth agree about anything you pray for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, I am there with them. (Matt: 18:19-20)

A few years ago, I was listening to a radio program and the host was interviewing a prominent Christian couple. They were talking about their marriage. One unusual "spiritual discipline" they have adopted has been to hold their kisses for a minimum of eight seconds. I thought that was kind of interesting.  A different kind of discipline was in the area of prayer. They pray together every day at a certain time and place, praying through situations, and praying God’s blessing on each other. Today’s passage is not talking specifically about married couples, but it clearly applies to married couples. Jesus reminds His followers (us!) that when two or more of His followers gather, specifically in prayer, He will join the group! God answers prayers when we get into agreement with each other and with Him. This kind of agreement strengthens relationships of any kind. In a world where everything seems to be conspiring to destroy relationships, this is a promise we can hold onto, married or single.

But if you are married, let me encourage you to make it a practice to pray together every day. Jesus says He’ll be with you when you do…and that is very Good News!