Many couples underestimate the power of prayer in their marriages. 

They don't ask for God's blessing or His intervention in their marriage problems until after things have gotten really bad.

Prayer is Important. Why?

God designed marriage. 

But Satan is constantly attacking it. 

His goal is to destroy the belief in, and commitment to, Christian marriage because it mars the image of God. 

If you want to save your marriage or drastically improve it, then bring the mind and heart of Jesus Christ into your relationship through prayer. 

How to Pray for Your Marriage

Pray individually and together. 

There's heart-warming power in hearing your spouse interceding for you before the throne of grace. 

Pray for strength, wisdom, discernment and protection over your spouse and family. 

Ask God to help you to see your partner as He sees them.

What would happen if you looked at your spouse how He does?

What if you loved and cared for them like He does?

How would your marriage be different if you treated your spouse like God treats you?

Additionally, ask for God's power and wisdom to endure the ups and downs. 

Ask God for grace and patience during trials and tribulations.

Claim and Receive God's Promises

The bible is full of wonderful promises.

Find promises and scriptures relevant to your situation and claim them in prayer. 

Go before God with your open Bible, with your finger on the promise, and tell Him:

"Dear God, here's what you said - here's what you promised. I'm claiming your promise - I'm taking you at your word because I trust you and believe that you keep your word. And it's in the name of Jesus Christ that I receive this promise. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Amen." 

There's transforming power in praying the Living Word of God. 

A lot of people admit that praying for their spouse would be a good idea but how many actually do it?

I pray that this week's tip will inspire you to take the next step -- that you will pray for your spouse and with your spouse -- and ask God to bless you with a happy, healthy and lasting Christian marriage.

Until next time, this is Mike Tucker, and I want YOU to be mad about marriage!