Celebrate Your Future

In Daily Devotional by Neil Josephson

Theme of the Week: Marriage Celebration

Bible Verse:  “What, then, are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us?” Romans 8:31, CSB

Scripture Reading: Romans 8:31-39

Sankofa. Looking back so we can move ahead.

Earlier in our marriage, Sharol and I started going away for a weekend early in each New Year. At first, it was simply a fun getaway from the kids. But it became much more. We used the space and time to reflect on the year past, to celebrate and give thanks, seek forgiveness from one another and from God, and then to look to the year ahead.

Looking ahead and sharing honestly about the things that excited us, that caused us fear and worry, was a means to deeper intimacy. More than once, we had to say, “I had no idea you were thinking and feeling that way.” We trusted each other with these inner thoughts, made plans together for the year(s) ahead and most importantly, put our hearts before God to seek his wisdom, strength and guidance.

We do it still. We call it our “State of the Union” weekend. And we recommend it to every couple we coach. It is a powerful way to deepen your relationship at any time. It doesn’t have to be a new calendar year, and you don’t have to take a weekend. Just be intentional and focused and look together to the future. Here’s a simple template for you to use if it helps you get started:

  • When I look to the year ahead, I feel…
  • In the year ahead, I am most excited about…
  • In the next year, the thing I worry most about is…
  • In the year ahead, I am praying for…

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About
Neil Josephson
The journey from a high school teacher to the national director of FamilyLife Canada has led Neil Josephson to live, study, pastor and teach in Canada, the United States and South America. The consistent theme in all the change has been God's grace and the daily adventure of trying to live all in for Jesus. Neil and his wife Sharol - co-leader of FamilyLife - live in Pitt Meadows, BC.
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Neil Josephson
The journey from a high school teacher to the national director of FamilyLife Canada has led Neil Josephson to live, study, pastor and teach in Canada, the United States and South America. The consistent theme in all the change has been God's grace and the daily adventure of trying to live all in for Jesus. Neil and his wife Sharol - co-leader of FamilyLife - live in Pitt Meadows, BC.