This week we have chosen to take a look at a religious topic that many people often talk about, but don’t necessarily do. Our relationship has already had many ups, and at the worst time, Angela made the decision to start praying over our relationship together, and it made a huge difference.  Craig completely credits her with making this decision, and today we are going to discuss how you can use it in your relationship. NOTE: We are by no means pushing our religious beliefs on you, simply addressing a topic that some readers have shown interest in.

Craig & Angela Bickford share their thoughts in this week's He Said/She Said blog.

He Says:
Before Angie and I got married, we took several classes, had counseling from our pastor, and through out each of these church based functions, every couple we talked to at length told us that one of the most important things that keep their marriage strong was keeping it Christ centered. The way that they always suggested it was to make sure, no matter what, that you always prayed together as a couple. This was difficult for both of us because neither one of us felt like we were “good” at praying aloud. So for the first year and a half of our marriage, we did not follow those instructions very well. At that point, I had started attending a weekly bible study, and was probably at the closest point to God that I had ever been. And guess what happened next, the devil started attacking me. I started questioning if I wanted to be married anymore. And one night at our lowest point, Angie received council from a friend of hers who said she had to pray over us if I would not. She did so, and within a matter of days I was apologizing for being a fool. Since that day, there has not been a day that has gone by that we have not prayed together at bedtime. I feel certain that it has made all the difference in our lives together, and would, without a doubt more than strongly urge every couple who wants a Christ-centered relationship to start this practice daily.

She Says: 
Well, Craig pretty much nailed it on the head and told you the entire story! But, I will say that he gives me way too much credit. Everything that happened in our lowest moments happened because of God. I have always been a believer, but not always a great follower. I dreaded praying out loud - felt stupid sounding - and actually still do at times! But, my friend reminded me that it wasn't a show... it was a transparent moment of vulnerability that would allow us to grow closer as a couple with God and allow Him into our marriage. Boy was she right. We usually trade off nights of praying, ask each other if there are any prayer requests, and then pray. We also pray before meals (although silently to ourselves) and make it a point to pray together even if we're apart. It has really strengthened our marriage, but I know just telling you that isn't going to sink in - others have probably told you that. So, I encourage you to try it for a week - that's it - one week, and see what happens in YOUR relationship. :) God WILL move. And, I can tell you that it is what has held our marriage together through some serious illnesses, our infertility, and our moments when we wondered, "What were we thinking?" I wouldn't trade it for anything...

Do you have a topic you want discussed on He Said/She Said? Just email us at blogs@simplycyfair.com with your topic idea and we'll do our best to give you the low-down from the male AND female perspective.