Awhile back, I read about how to have a super marriage. It wasn’t some sex manual, but was written about getting closer to each other. By relating better, a husband and wife grow more in love throughout their married life. That’s for me.

I must admit that I’m not much for how-to or self-help books. What I’ve read seems simplistic. Or too much of a formula, allowing no exceptions. As if we’re all cookie-cutter, made from the very same mold. I rebel against such, probably making me a tad moldy!

The writer’s main point is that those with successful marital relationships have leaned in toward each other. They’ve purposely moved closer to each other, not just physically, but by their attention and care. They champion each other. Side with each other. Partial to each other. They listen to each other. Drop what they’re doing when needed. Look up when called, clearing the mind to focus on their spouse. Bottom line, they’re for each other.

How am I doing? Please don’t ask my wife! Also, not to avoid another unpleasant topic, I wonder how all this leaning-in business applies to my spiritual life? My relationship with the Lord Jesus? Here you’re free to ask Him about me, for I know that He keeps confidences better than anyone. Nevertheless, how goes it?

Any relationship with your Lord must involve several elements. Agreed? You can name some. What comes to my mind is sharing with God whatever weighs on my mind and emotions. That’s prayer. Transparent, frank and honest, even though His name’s not Frank!

So, how are we doing? Here’s a warning– is your prayer life all about you and yours? Or even worse, just you? I remember being in prayer groups where, once in a blue moon, the instruction was given to pray only for others. Not yourself. That lasted about two seconds, if that, sad to say. So, get over yourself, why don’t you?

Something else about a good relationship is listening…to Jesus. As recommended, actually commanded, by God the Father–“He (Peter) was still speaking when, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him'” (Matthew 17: 5). Listen to whom? Right! Go to the head of the class! Again, listen to Jesus. But I wonder where we can hear from Him? Any ideas? Stumped you? No. You know!

Then, how about speaking nicely to God? Some pleasant praise. From the bottom of your heart. Not for brownie points or to butter Him up to wangle something out of the Almighty. Instead, share some genuine thanks and praise. Like how the Father speaks to His Son Jesus–‘…this is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased…'( Matt. 17: 12). Some nice talk. How about sharing some real McCoy appreciation with your Lord?

Leaning in toward God. Favoring Jesus. Placing our future in His hands without reservation (one of my challenges). Looking beyond what our eyes can see to a firmer faith, though at times we’ll experience a teeter and a wobble. Yes, we may sway in the wind, but Jesus keeps us upright as we lean in upon Him.

Let’s do just that this week. Lean in!

Lord Jesus, I want to be yours no matter what. Amen.