We’re all well aware of the times we’re living in. We don’t know of anyone who’s not affected, to one degree or another, by the economy. The word economy is such a sterile, news reporting word. But it translates to homes that are under a lot of stress.

A coaching couple recently told us about a message they heard on the much taught about story of Martha and Mary. One thing they received was how amazing it was that Martha was right there in the very same room with Jesus and yet she was ”worried and troubled about many things.” Luke 10:41

The profound thing about living on this side of the cross is that we aren’t just in the same room with Jesus; we have become the manger, the stable, the temple. That is a thought to ponder on a very regular basis, in prayer.

So many marriages in our nation are under financial stress at this joyful time of year. Is it possible to celebrate this most amazing intersection in history–when the God of the universe became “Emmanuel-God with us” and began his earthly life that would change everything for eternity– in the midst of less than peaceful circumstances?

We all know there are various statistics out there but the bottom line is that many marriages experience stress, strife or divorce as a result of financial pressures.

As deeply as each of us walks with Him, and have walked with Him in past situations, He is taking us into a deeper place with Him. A place of trust and rest in His power; greater stewardship awareness, and thankfulness for His many provisions.

“Don’t look to men for help; their greatest leaders fail……But happy is the man who has the God of Jacob as his helper, whose hope is in the Lord his God-the God who made both earth and heaven, the seas and everything in them. He is the God who keeps every promise.” Psalm 146:3-6 LB

2=1 marriages have been changed forever. We’ve learned great biblical truths through receiving and teaching Married For Life. Yet at times like these, we still have to exercise what we know to walk in peace, harmony and victory; plus pray for each other. Many married couples don’t have that and badly need our anointed prayers at this time. Prayers that come from hearts that understand but yet have found the God of peace above all circumstances; who “ask for the ancient paths” (Jeremiah 6:16) and defeat the enemy.

We were addressing a financial situation the other day and in the middle of it this praise song just came up. We knew it was the Lord entering the moment with His reminder.  As we praised the Lord and prayed, we felt His mighty power that is greater than any situation bring complete peace, joy and an even deeper declaration of trust. It is there all the time, but when couples pray together, the Lord has the opportunity to remind us that He is “Emmanuel-God with us!”

We just kept praising Him and singing, “He is exalted, the King is exalted, and I will praise Him; He is exalted and I will praise His Name!” Our hearts responded to our praise and received the steadfast joy He alone can give. God works great miracles in receiving our praises and trust.

Let’s join together to pray for marriages in our nation. Maybe you are going through financial stress, maybe it’s a relative’s marriage, a couple in your MFL group. Let’s pray for each other’s needs; and also agree for all of those we know need our prayers.

Some suggested scriptures to pray: (Maybe place your own names or the names of a couple you are praying for in the scripture as you pray it.)

• “But the very hairs of your head are numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:30-31
• “Our soul waits for the Lord; He is our help and our shield. For our hearts shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in His holy name.” Psalm 33:20-22
• “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” 3 John 2
• “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
• “Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved me in my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer….I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:1,8
• “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in Glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
• “I will lift up my eyes to the hills-from whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber…The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore.” Psalm 121:1-3,8
• “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people. For to you is born this day in the town of David a Savior, Who is Christ (the Messiah) the Lord! And this will be a sign for you (by which you will recognize Him); you will find (after searching) a Baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.’ Then suddenly there appeared with the angel an army of the troops of heaven (a heavenly knighthood), praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest (heaven), and on earth peace among men with whom He is well pleased (men of goodwill, of His favor).’”  Luke 2:10-14 Amplified

Dearest Lord, we adore You. We love and honor You. Do a special work in our hearts and the hearts of married couples; answer our prayerful needs as we follow Your directions. Help us to actively rest in Your peace and the power of Your mighty love for us.