My Beloved, My Friend: The Song of Songs for Couples

From this pastor's perspective...Brent Christianson has written a truly helpful resource. Based on Song of Songs, this is an excellent resource for couples who are willing to take out a little personal time to strengthen their relationship through thoughtful devotions. Pastors might well consider using it as a tool in Retreat settings with couples. Each chapter spring boards off relational themes that unfold in the Biblical text. Couples are gently led to ask questions and participate in a variety of discovery and sharing exercises. In doing so, the book does not seek to repair brokenness as much as to celebrate what is already good and to build on that. It is about time someone wrote a book like this. 5 stars!From my spouse's perspective...this book is a little gem! Couples are not only provided with meditations on pertinent topics to share, but each topic is supplemented with down to earth "Things to talk about" and "Things to Do" that strengthen opens, honesty, delight, and care between two committed people. Clear, heartfelt prayers and original poetry serve to further enrich the closeness, love, romance and spirituality that the two people experience when marriage is at its best. Each meditation/activity is designed to be experienced at a pace that the couple finds relaxing and useful. My husband and I are eager to share this book with others, I just ordered a copy as a wedding gift for our daughter and finance, and another copy is being sent to friends of ours who will be celebrating their 40th anniversary. This is the perfect gift for both couples.