Dear John,

Happy new year! You and your spouse have a brand-new year ahead and the opportunity to make 2023 the best year ever for your marriage.

As you think about those opportunities — and maybe make resolutions for the coming year — let me challenge you to set a goal for the days ahead. It’s simple … but it will change your relationship. Here it is: Strengthen your marriage and invest in another.

I told you it was simple. But you’re probably thinking, “Thanks, Greg. Now tell me how to do it.”

Glad you asked. Because there’s an easy way to get started. When my wife Erin and I teach couples how to build stronger relationships, we encourage them to find ways to open their hearts to each other. To share from the heart. And create a marriage that feels like the safest place on earth. What better way to do that than to set aside time each week to read a devotional and share what God is teaching you.

If you’re looking for a great couple’s devotional, I recommend The Best Year of Your Marriage by Focus on the Family President Jim Daly and his wife Jean. Jim and Jean’s book contains 52 short devotions — stories from their own relationship, Scriptures on marriage and time-tested helps from Focus on the Family’s counseling team. The Best Year of Your Marriage gives you and your spouse insights on communication, affection, decision making, conflict resolution and much more.

The Best Year of Your Marriage is the perfect way to create spiritual intimacy with your spouse and strengthen your marriage in the coming year. And then from that position of strength, you can reach out and invest in other couples. Get your copy today for your gift of any amount. Erin and I know you will enjoy it!

Blessings to you and your family,

Dr. Greg Smalley
Vice President of Marriage and Family Formation
Focus on the Family