Did you know that this week is National Marriage Week?

If you saw Jarvis’ post earlier this week, you might already be clued in to some very intentional things you and your spouse could be doing for one another in these days leading up to Valentine’s Day. If you have been participating in some of the activities presented by Family Life, how has it been going? Do you see little things making a difference?

This week Family Life has also shared 25 Valentines Day Ideas for Couples so if you are looking for something different to do this year or to start some new habits with your spouse, this is a great starting point.

Looking for a creative gift for your spouse? Why not give the Family Life “I Love You” Coupons a try. On their site you can customize and download your own special coupon book that you can print and give as a gift to the one you love.

For continued investment beyond Valentine’s Day, take a look at some of the additional articles and resources offered by Family Life through their Anniversaries Matter portal. They offer prayer cards, conversation starters, and other resources that can be helpful at any time, not just in times of challenge.

And…make worship part of your celebration this weekend. As we continue in our Relationship Changers series, Pastor Doug will bring us into focus and challenge us in his message titled “Love DOES”. Love is a daily choice. Love is an action. Take a look at 1 Corinthians 13:1-8 along with your spouse and talk about how it can come to life in your relationship. Pray about it together. Draw closer to one another by drawing close with God.

Of course, if you are looking to open new pathways to better communication in your marriage, you want to invest in your relationship as a couple, or you just need some extra help and a sounding board in working through some challenges either individually or as a couple, you can always connect with Jarvis Howe, Director of Counseling and Family Ministry, at 217-423-6955. Your first appointment is at no charge, so if you are feeling the nudge to do something to make a positive change in your relationship, coming in to talk through things and connect with Jarvis is a great first step.