The Bible says that God knows everything, nothing is hidden. So then, the purpose of prayer is not to inform God but rather to benefit the pray-er by focusing on needs, problems and wounds. Not knowing when one needs help is a dangerous thing. Truly understanding that nobody is self-sufficient is the first step needed for Christians to ask for – and according to the Bible, receive – help.
The Apostle Paul’s Gives Marriage Counseling Advice
Carefully explaining that he’s not quoting God’s law but rather giving Christian couples advice, the apostle Paul wrote to his friends in Corinth to answer some questions they had about sex . He said, “Abstaining from sex is permissible for a period of time if you both agree to it, and if it's for the purposes of prayer and fasting – but only for such times. Then come back together again. Satan has an ingenious way of tempting us when we least expect it.” (1 Corinthians 7:5, The Message)
When practicing celibacy for spiritual reasons or when duties – work or family – necessitate a separation, use the time wisely. Focus on God, asking for wisdom and safety. This sample prayer is one way to converse with God but changing the words to personalize it or just talking is even better. Like any other friend, God wants people to be real and honest, not just use pretty words in an attempt to sound good.
Sample Prayer Helps Christian Couples When Separated
“Ever-present God, although we are physically separated right now, You are with us both. You know we are apart and how long we must endure this situation.
“Our defenses are weakened when our unity is divided by distance and so we feel vulnerable when we face temptations. Be our shield and defender and transform this difficult separation into a time of growth.
“Be with as we return briefly to this strangely familiar land of loneliness, where lustful intimacies masquerade as innocent diversions, lying as they promise fulfillment without the bonds of love and spiritual union.
“While we are apart, renew our spirits so that only time and distance separate us. Keep us safe until we are again in each others’ arms, celebrating the love You have given us.
“In the name of the Divine Human Who left heaven for us.
“Amen.”
Marriage Help for Christians – Sometimes a Temporary Separation is Good
For many couples who have been married a few years, a temporary separation may be welcomed. It gives the spouse who remains home a chance to do some solitary activities like read, write or work on a hobby project. Time apart may also renew the relationship, like taking a vacation. Nevertheless, if there is not some sense of loss when spouses are separated, it is a warning signal.
Couple Prayers – for New Lovers When Apart is another sample prayer that may be helpful.
Mistie Shaw - Writing for nearly half a century, Shaw's interests and education meander from music to the military, and from faith to fun.
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