The most relaxed marital relationships enjoy what I call periods of fallow time. "Fallow" means to lie dormant or idle, and it's a concept that has been applied most often to the land.

In biblical times, farmers used a rotation system of seven-year periods to revitalize their fields. For six years they would plant and harvest, but during the seventh year the field was allowed to lie fallow. The fallow year was a time to replenish and nourish.

We need to build this concept into our marriages. After we cram our minds full of information and fill our days with activity, we need to provide for fallow time and space in our closest relationships.

But a sabbatical every seven years won't do the trick. Instead, you need to include fallow time every week, time when you and your mate get off by yourselves and enjoy one another quietly, without any purpose or agenda other than being together.

To find fallow time you'll most likely have to cut out some other activity or commitment. But when you take that step, you may well find that your marriage responds like the lands of the ancient Hebrews. The time off will rejuvenate and nurture the two of you and move you toward a more complete state of unity.

•What adjustments can you make in your weekly schedule to have regular time with your spouse?
•What benefits to your marriage might come from adhering to a regular "fallow" time together?

Passage for the day: Exodus 23:10-13

Verse for the day: Exodus 23:10-11

Additional Scripture Readings: Isaiah 40:30-31; Matthew 11:28-30; Ephesians 4:2-3

Taken from the Couples' Devotional Bible - New International Version, published by Zondervan. Used by permission.

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