As he considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. “Joseph, son of David,” the angel said, “do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit.” …When Joseph woke up, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded and took Mary as his wife. (Matthew 1:20,24)

This month we are dedicating our blog to the subject of communication in marriage. Sometimes communication breaks down, and we need outside help to move forward, out of misunderstanding. This was the case for Mary and Joseph. Joseph simply didn’t believe the outlandish story that Mary was telling him, and it was a deal-breaker. Mary was unable to convince Joseph that she was telling the truth. I can imagine that she called out to God – always the best option for those of us that find ourselves cornered. God heard her prayer and sent an angel to clarify things and to confirm Mary’s words.

For those times when we just can’t get through to one another or we are having trouble trusting each other, we cry out to God. He will hear us when we pray if we pray from hearts that are pure. An angel saved Mary and Joseph’s marriage. Perhaps an angel will save yours.

Our Father,

We ask that you would intervene in our relationship, that you would help us to believe in one another and trust one another. Please translate for us when we simply don’t have the words to say what is at the core of our hearts. Send your messengers to help us in the form of counselors, friends, family or even angels. We receive your help from on high, for we know that you value our covenant even more than we do. And we volunteer to be angels on behalf of others that need encouragement in their communication. We make ourselves available to pray for and help our friends in their pursuit of successful marriages, for we know that that is your will for our lives. 

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.