[A]ny two Christians, with nothing else but a common faith in Christ, can have a robust friendship. . . . Friendship is a deep oneness that develops as two people, speaking the truth in love to each other, journey together to the same horizon. (Hardcover, pp. 114–17; paperback, pp. 124–27)
FRIENDS AND FORMATIVE PRACTICES. For centuries believers were formed as Christians by a set of communal practices. These are tools that Christian spouses can use for intensifying their own friendships with each other. You can study the Bible and theology together (Acts 2:42). You can hold each other accountable for spiritual growth goals (Hebrews 3:13). You can help each other identify your particular gifts for ministry and then support each other in their use (Romans 12:4–8). You can open your home to others in the name of Christ, providing hospitality (Romans 12:13). You can think of ways to nurture your children’s faith together (Ephesians 6:1–4). All of these ordinary Christian practices, when done intentionally together as spouses, become the basis for a spiritually rich friendship.
Reflection: Which of the practices listed above do you currently do as a couple? Which ones could you add?
Thought for prayer: Going through the list in the devotional above, thank God for each particular means of grace and ask him for the wisdom and self-discipline to make better uses of them both in your marriage and in the church.