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The Power of a Praying Couple

Day 1 - Oct 5, 2026

There is tremendous power when a husband and wife unite in prayer and speak the Word of God in faith.

If Mandy and I could share one essential piece of advice with couples to strengthen their marriage, it would be this: Pray together and stand in faith, trusting God as a team.

Reflect on Your Prayer Life

  • What role does prayer play in your personal life and in your marriage? Is it one of the first things you turn to, or does it come later when challenges arise?

For Husbands:  Your wife may have friends or family members who pray with her, but she likely longs for you to join her in prayer. If she asks you to pray with her, do you respond? If not, consider why that might be.

If you haven’t been praying with your wife, start today. Approach her with a desire to pray together. Begin by praying for each other, your children, your jobs, and your friends. It doesn’t need to be daily at first; aim for several times a week. Your prayers don’t have to be long or elaborate—just start leading with your heart.



Take Action

For Wives:  Encourage your husband to pray by inviting him gently, rather than instructing him. Avoid asking him in front of others or at the last minute. Instead, set him up for success. You might ask him to pray for the meal or a specific situation you both are facing.

  • This approach will help build his confidence and allow the Holy Spirit to work in him.
  • Sometimes, men just need a little loving encouragement; never put him in a position that might embarrass him.

By committing to pray together, you not only strengthen your marriage but also deepen your relationship with God. Remember, as you unite in prayer, you are aligning yourselves with His powerful promises.

Day 2 - Oct 6, 2026

Most couples don't realize the incredible power available to them when they pray together in faith.

The Bible teaches us that it is the prayer of faith that brings about change, and this faith is rooted in knowing God's Word. As Romans 10:17 states, "Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." This means that you cannot have faith in something if you cannot find it in God's Word.

The Importance of God's Word:  Reading God's Word daily is essential for building a strong foundation in your marriage. In Matthew 18:19-20, Jesus emphasizes the power of agreement in prayer: "Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them."  This passage highlights the authority God gives believers through prayer and the importance of unity in faith.

The phrase "if two of you agree" comes from the Greek word sumphoneo, which means to harmonize, much like a symphony.

  • When couples synchronize their faith and pray together, they create a beautiful harmony that invites God's presence and intervention in their lives.

Standing on God's Promises:  When you find a promise in God's Word that speaks to your situation, you can stand in confidence. For example, James 5:15 tells us that "the prayer of faith will save the sick." This assurance allows you to speak God's Word over your circumstances and to stand in faith and unity as a couple.



Take Action

Steps to Strengthen Your Marriage

As you head into this week, here are two great steps you can take to improve your prayer life and strengthen your marriage:

  1. Choose a Scripture Together: Spend some time together selecting a scripture that addresses a specific area of your life or marriage that you want to pray about. This could be related to unity, peace, or any challenges you are facing. Write it down and keep it visible as a reminder of God's promise.

  2. Pray Together: Set aside time this weekend to pray together. Speak the chosen scripture over your situation and ask the Lord to intervene. Remember, you are not alone in the struggles you face; Mandy and I are here to help couples develop healthy habits and grow in their faith together.

By incorporating these practices into your routine, you will not only deepen your relationship with each other but also strengthen your faith in God's promises.

Day 3 - Oct 7, 2026

Standing Firm on His Promises

You must know His promises to stand in faith on them.

What priority does the Bible hold in your life? The Bible says, "My people perish for lack of knowledge." It also states, "We do not have because we do not ask," so let’s remember to ask. Hebrews tells us that the Word of God is "active and alive." This sets the Bible apart from any other book. It isn't just a historical text; it is "alive" because He is alive. Through Jesus, the Son of God, we have the opportunity to believe in Him. In Christ, we gain the authority to stand in faith on the promises found in God's Word. Let’s explore some of these promises.

Matthew 18:19-20 presents an incredible promise from God when individuals come together in agreement.

Why is this important?

  • Because God doesn’t want us to be alone; He desires for us to unite as a couple or family.


Take Action

The more we join our faith with our spouse and other believers, the more miracles God can perform. Make the decision to unite as a couple over the circumstances you face in marriage and in life.

Here are a few verses you and your spouse may want to read and memorize together. Pay attention to the power of Unity they convey:

  • Matthew 18:20 ESV / For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”
  • Matthew 18:19 ESV / Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV / Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
  • Matthew 18:19-20 ESV / Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”

Remember, standing together in faith invites God's presence into your marriage and empowers you to overcome any challenge.

Day 4 - Oct 8, 2026

Do You and Your Spouse Pray Together?

The enemy often seeks to isolate us, making us feel alone and cut off from others. Just like a wolf targets a stray sheep, we can become discouraged when we are isolated. However, when we unite with a fellow believer—especially our spouse—we experience the power of God and the presence of Jesus.

  • Beyond the promise in Matthew, why does praying together strengthen a marriage?

Consider another promise from Philippians 4:6-7: "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."

Paul emphasizes that those who pray tend to experience better emotional health. Prayer helps reduce worry. 



Take Action

Are you holding back from your spouse?

Do you find yourself thinking, "I don't want them to worry" or "I'm afraid of how they might react"?  Such thoughts often create separation and distance.

  • You need unity in your marriage, not just union!
  • While wearing rings and living in the same house signifies union, it doesn't guarantee unity.
  • Unity brings power, passion, and purpose to your marriage, while union simply means you are in close proximity.

Consider setting aside time to discuss your prayer lives and how you want them to evolve. Approach the conversation gently—avoid making demands. If necessary, invite a third party to help navigate difficult topics.

  • Did you know that stress is the number one killer of marriages?
  • It's also a leading cause of doctor's visits and medication.
  • God did not design our bodies to thrive under prolonged stress.

Remember, a united prayer life can transform your marriage and bring peace amidst life's challenges.

Day 5 - Oct 9, 2026

Stress depletes us emotionally and robs us of the energy needed to love each other.

Anxious individuals often find themselves fighting and having disagreements within their marriages. The command "Be anxious for nothing" reminds us that the Bible would never instruct us to do something we are not equipped to handle. The following part of that passage outlines how to follow this command:

  1. We have to pray.
  2. We have to give our requests to God. If you're worried about money, your kids, your health, your parents, your job, or your marriage—that's your new prayer list.

Let those worries be known to God, and do so with thanksgiving, trusting that He will hear and answer your prayers. When you do this, He will grant you peace, guard your heart and mind, and lead you to emotional health. God will fill your home with His peace and protect the emotional well-being of your marriage.



Take Action

According to a Barna Institute study, stress is a significant factor affecting marital satisfaction, with many couples reporting that anxiety and emotional strain contribute to their relational difficulties. This highlights the importance of addressing stress and anxiety through prayer and connection.

  • Every couple can access this same promise. All you have to do is pray.

Start today! As you enter the weekend, remember that prayer can transform your relationship and bring peace into your home.
 

 

 

 

 

Introduction: The Importance of Being a Real Man

In today's world, masculinity is often misunderstood and misrepresented. In "The Men We Need," Brant Hansen tackles this confusion directly, emphasizing that being a real man means taking responsibility, protecting the vulnerable, and cultivating genuine relationships. This book is essential for anyone seeking to understand what it truly means to embody masculinity in a fulfilling and impactful way.

Chapter Highlights

Chapter 1: Embrace Your Role as a Keeper of the Garden

  • Key Point: True masculinity involves taking responsibility for those around you, much like being a "keeper of the garden."
  • Implementation: Identify areas in your life—such as family or community—where you can take initiative. Start small by volunteering or helping a neighbor.

Chapter 2: Forsake the Fake and Relish the Real

  • Key Point: Reject distractions like pornography and excessive social media that detract from meaningful connections.
  • Implementation: Limit social media use and focus on face-to-face interactions to build authentic relationships.

Chapter 3: Protect the Vulnerable and Take Responsibility

  • Key Point: Men should actively protect those who are vulnerable, including children and the elderly.
  • Implementation: Look for opportunities to mentor or support someone in need, whether through community service or simply being present for a friend.

Chapter 4: Be Ambitious About the Right Things

  • Key Point: Redefine ambition to focus on making a positive impact rather than just personal gain.
  • Implementation: Set goals that prioritize community service and personal growth over financial success. Reflect on what truly matters to you.

Chapter 5: Make Women and Children Feel Safe, Not Threatened

  • Key Point: Create an environment of safety and stability for women and children.
  • Implementation: Be present and engaged in your family life. Show emotional support and reliability to ensure your loved ones feel secure.

Chapter 6: Choose Today Who You Will Become Tomorrow

  • Key Point: Every decision shapes your future self; be intentional about your growth.
  • Implementation: Start a daily reflection practice. Consider journaling about your goals and the kind of man you want to become.

Chapter 7: Take Responsibility for Your Own Spiritual Life

  • Key Point: Spiritual growth is a personal responsibility requiring active engagement.
  • Implementation: Establish a routine for prayer or meditation. Join a study group to deepen your understanding of your faith.

Conclusion: The Value of Perspective

As Stan and Mandy Dennis emphasize, having the right perspective on what it means to be a real man can transform your life and relationships. By embracing these simple yet powerful truths, you will notice positive changes in your interactions with others, your relationships, and your marriage. Accept the challenge of becoming the man you were designed to be, and watch as your life flourishes in ways you never imagined.

Encouragement to Activate the Information

Take these insights and implement them in your daily life. Start with one small step from each chapter and share your journey with others in this group. Together, we can support one another in becoming the men and women we are meant to be.

Learn More:

  1. The Men We Need | Summary, Quotes, FAQ, Audio
  2. The Men We Need | Baker Publishing Group
  3. Book Review: The Men We Need | A Journey of Words