Help couples study Scripture, reflect honestly, and put what they learn into practice with Your Marriage God’s Way and its companion workbook. This free starter guide includes a suggested reading schedule, a meeting outline, a starter lesson, and an ordering checklist.
What each couple needs
One main book to share and two workbooks—one for each spouse. Bring a Bible and pen, too. Read each section of the main book, answer the matching workbook questions independently, then discuss your responses together. The main book and workbook are sold separately. The conference handout is a different resource and does not replace the workbook.
Get the main book on Amazon · Get the workbook on Amazon
Plan your group order
| Couples, including leaders | Main books | Workbooks | Total books |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 8 | 12 |
| 6 | 6 | 12 | 18 |
| 10 | 10 | 20 | 30 |
| 15 | 15 | 30 | 45 |
| 20 | 20 | 40 | 60 |
Subtract copies participants already own. Use the same edition of the main book throughout your group. Check current prices and delivery dates before choosing a start date.
A flexible reading schedule
Choose a regular meeting time and a place where couples can talk without interruption. Begin with these four meetings, then continue at a pace that serves your group. This is a suggested schedule, not a fixed-length course.
- Begin together. Read the workbook’s welcome and usage instructions. Explain the study process, try the starter lesson below, and arrange a private weekly conversation time.
- Chapter 1. Read the first chapter section by section and complete the matching workbook questions independently. Discuss its Scripture passages and one practical application.
- Chapter 2. Follow the same process. Reflect on what you are learning and how you are applying it.
- Chapter 3. Continue the reading and questions. Review the group’s pace and agree on the next assignment.
For subsequent meetings, continue with the next chapter and its matching questions. Split longer chapters across meetings when helpful. Leave room for prayer, reflection, and conversation.
A repeatable 60-minute meeting
- 0–5 minutes: Welcome and opening prayer.
- 5–15 minutes: Read a Scripture passage from the assigned chapter and review its main teaching.
- 15–30 minutes: Discuss two or three workbook questions appropriate for the whole group.
- 30–45 minutes: Give couples time to discuss an application privately.
- 45–55 minutes: Invite voluntary reflections and practical next steps.
- 55–60 minutes: Confirm the next reading assignment and close in prayer.
Starter lesson: Put one truth into practice
Read James 1:19–25 from your Bible. This introductory activity helps couples practice personal reflection, attentive listening, and one concrete act of obedience. It is supplemental material for this guide, not a reproduced workbook page.
Reflect individually
- What does this passage teach about listening and responding?
- Which instruction do I need to apply more consistently?
- What specific action can I take this week to put that instruction into practice?
Discuss and apply
Take turns sharing an answer. Before responding, explain what you understood your spouse to say and ask whether you understood correctly. Focus on your own application. Write down what you will do, when you will do it, and when you will revisit the conversation. Close by asking God for humility to receive His Word and faithfulness to live it out.
Lead the discussion well
Keep Scripture and the assigned reading central. Let participants pass on a question; private workbook answers do not need to be shared with the group. Invite people to speak about their own responses and choices. Keep personal disclosures confidential within appropriate safeguarding limits, and follow your church’s safeguarding process if someone raises a concern involving threats, abuse, or safety.
Before your first meeting
Count participating couples, confirm everyone has the books they need, and share the meeting date and welcome-reading assignment. Before each meeting, read the material, choose suitable discussion questions, and allow time for private couple conversation.
Explore the workbook and read its introduction.
After your group finishes
Give couples time to reflect on what they want to keep practicing. For those ready to study biblical stewardship, consider Your Finances God’s Way and its separately available companion workbook.
