There are a lot of books and programs that offer marriage advice. For instance, my wife and I were fortunate enough to be read through Larry Crabb’s The Marriage Builder by both our pastor and a handful of couples during our engagement. Truth be told, though, Crabb’s book, while it is time-tested, relevant and addressing aspects that go beyond typical marriage advice, I have always believed the mentoring from successful couples we knew and admired as we made plans for our life together made a world of difference. I share this because we are now in that period between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, and it is during this time that I am often reminded that emphasis is lacking when it comes to building and celebrating the relationships that exist among married couples. Yes, being a parent is to be celebrated, but it’s also vital that we cling tightly to our vows and work intentionally on the strength of our union with each other and with God.

And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken. - Ecclesiastes 4:12 (ESV)

Today, I have the pleasure of offering this review of the book, Discovering Your Amazing Marriage by Jason & Debby Coleman

Not Just Another Book of Marriage Advice

I was provided with a copy of Discovering Your Amazing Marriage from the authors in return for an honest review. In this book, Jason & Debby speak from the heart as they offer practical, real-world advice and a Biblical view to encourage couples in intentionally working toward experiencing a marriage that makes it through every season of life together. Truthfully, one of the last things I wanted to read was another book of marriage advice, so I was a little bit tempted to decline the request when I was contacted. However, as I learned a little more about Jason and Debby, their ministry goals, and the book, I agreed. I agreed because of the fact that it is written by a real-life couple that has gone through real-life struggles and grown both in their personal relationship and their relationship with God along the way. Seriously, how could I have said no? Jason and Debby remind us that a marriage is not a sit back and relax sort of experience. They explain how and why we must be proactive and realistic in our expectations from marriage. In fact, as they say, “growing together” is about more than growing closer. Each chapter begins with a quote of wisdom, either a well-known adage or quote from an authority figure like John Maxwell, Gary Smally and Rick Warren. Then, they detail many key components of marriage advice ranging from effective communication and intimacy to forgiveness, resolving conflict and breaking the cycle of divorce. They share candidly about their own experiences and lessons learned along the way. We, as readers, get an inside perspective on their wins and their losses - but more importantly - what they took away from those experiences so we can apply their wisdom into our own relationships.

Biblical Marriage Advice

In each chapter, after reading about experiences, lessons learned and personal advice from Jason and Debby, there is a section of Biblical Perspective that reinforces the content they detail. Along the way, passages from scripture – specifically from Ecclesiastes, John, Hebrews, Ephesians, Romans and Proverbs – are utilized and explained for proper context. If I had to offer any criticism of the book, I must admit that I did find it a bit difficult to know whose voice was being utilized throughout much of the book. I kept asking myself if it was coming from Jason or if the marriage advice was from Debby's. As I thought more about it, though, I found it to be appropriate because I have no doubt Jason and Debby intended the book to be from one couple with one binding voice to be shared among other couples. Again, another great model for us to apply in our own lives. Here's something else I found interesting: The book has a copyright of 2010 making it roughly 6 or 7-years-old.  Speaking to just how timeless and universally relevant their marriage advice is, I didn't even realize I was reading a book of that age until I was two-thirds of the way through when there is a reference to checking a Blackberry (remember those?). So here's the bottom line: In Discovering Your Amazing Marriage, Jason and Debby Coleman weave a passionate and sincere narrative that truly seeks to help couples live the life God planned for them. While, yes, it is a bit old, the advice and examples are timeless. If you want to achieve a stronger and deeper relationship with your spouse and God, give this book a read. A workbook is also available, which is very adaptable to small group studies as well. Buy The Book Connect with Jason & Debby Coleman

• Website: YourAmazingMarriage.com
• Facebook Page: Discovering Your Amazing Marriage
• Twitter: @yourmarriagejc