Starting the journey of reading the Bible as a couple is a beautiful way to deepen your relationship with God and each other. But with 66 books to choose from, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to begin! The good news is that there’s no wrong place to start, but some books of the Bible offer special opportunities for couples to grow together in unity, faith, and purpose. Here are some suggestions to guide your journey.
1. Genesis – God’s Design for Marriage
The book of Genesis lays the foundation of marriage, showing how God designed a husband and wife to be united as one flesh. Reading the creation account of Adam and Eve can be powerful in reminding couples of God’s original intent for marriage. You can reflect on how your own marriage is part of God’s bigger story.
- Key Passage: Genesis 2:24 – “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”
- Discuss: What does it mean for us to become “one flesh”? How can we live this out practically in our marriage?
2. Ephesians 5 – Godly Roles in Marriage
Ephesians 5 is a classic passage that highlights the roles of a husband and wife in a Christian marriage. It’s perfect for couples who want to understand how to love and respect each other in ways that honor God.
- Key Passage: Ephesians 5:25-33 – “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her…Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord.”
- Reflect: How can we both love and respect each other in light of Christ’s example?
3. 1 Corinthians 13 – The Love Chapter
This chapter is often quoted at weddings, but it’s also a wonderful place to start as a couple. As you read together, you can examine how well you’re practicing the qualities of love in your marriage and pray for God to help you grow in areas where you may struggle.
- Key Passage: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 – “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking…”
- Ask: In what ways can we express this kind of love to each other on a daily basis?
4. Proverbs – Wisdom for Daily Life
Proverbs offers timeless wisdom that can apply to every aspect of your marriage, from communication to decision-making to dealing with conflict. Reading one chapter a day (there are 31) can be a great way to add God’s wisdom to your daily life.
- Key Passage: Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
- Discuss: How can we trust God more fully in our marriage?
5. Song of Solomon – Celebrating Love and Intimacy
If you want to focus on nurturing the romantic and intimate aspects of your marriage, the Song of Solomon is a poetic and passionate celebration of love. It reminds couples that physical and emotional intimacy are gifts from God.
- Key Passage: Song of Solomon 6:3 – “I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine.”
- Explore: How can we continue to cherish and delight in one another as God intends?
6. Psalms – Strength for Difficult Seasons
The Psalms are a beautiful resource when life feels heavy, and they can guide you in praying together, especially during difficult times. Many of the Psalms speak about trusting God through challenges, which can strengthen your bond as you lean on Him together.
- Key Passage: Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
- Pray: How can we rely on God’s strength together when we face trials?
Practical Tips for Reading the Bible Together
- Set a regular time: Find a consistent time that works for both of you, whether it’s in the morning, after dinner, or before bed.
- Start small: Don’t feel like you need to read chapters at a time. Even a few verses can lead to meaningful discussion.
- Pray before and after: Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your reading and open your hearts to His word.
- Journal together: Keep a shared journal where you write down insights, prayers, or key takeaways from your reading.
Remember, the goal is not perfection but connection—connection with God and each other. As Jesus reminds us in Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” When you come together to seek Him, He is there, guiding you in love and truth.
Blessings as you embark on this beautiful journey together!