Songs in the Key of Solomon: In the Word and in the Mood

There are various unique ways to spend time together that do not require money and God can be part of your time. This is that type of devotional. Very unique.

My husband and I have been married 27 years and I was surprised at how this simple devotional has brought our intimacy and romance level up another notch or two. We both look forward to our weekly time together. Not only are the activities full of variety and fun, but the questions have elicited conversations that have surprised both of us! How can we still be learning things about each other after 27 years? We've made numerous small changes in our habits and attitudes that have had noticeably positive results. I can't tell you how glad I am that I had a moment of spontaneity and purchased the book when it was not on sale and I had not read any reviews about it. It has been a marriage brightener. I highly recommend this book.

For many years the "Song of Solomon" was a neglected book. The anatomical references, I guess, made many think this book was "inappropriate" for church use. Funny, it is in the Bible. And traditionally the Jews read it every Passover! (Well, maybe not the first several hundred Passovers, but once written it was a staple of Passover.) Fortunately the "veil" seems to have been lifted from the book. Several books in recent years have been written on the Song. I myself have preached a sermon on the Song as well as taught it in Bible class twice. John and Anita Renfroe pick up on the theme of the Song. No, this book is not an exposition of the book. Look at the title closely. The look at the subtitle: "In the Word.../...and In the Mood." It is a study for couples to look at each other with the eyes of God. It is a book about Christian romance! In effect, it is a book in which couples can share with each other their innermost thoughts, secrets, and desires. Written in a devotional style, nonetheless the book can engender discussion and openness if the members of the couple are willing. It is written by a couple who also struggle to "get the devotional thing right." It may surprise you to know one is a pastor, the other a Christian clown. Of course, those in a parsonage already know this is a struggle, just as it is for everyone. Thus they set out to write this quirky, unconventional, yet brilliant couple's devotional. There are sixty settings that often use what might seem "non-devotional" methods. Really, now, grapes and candles in a bath for a devotional? Or curling up together in a big recliner with one bowl of ice cream and two spoons? Well, that is "intimacy" or as the authors define it, "Into me see." The book also highlights those smarmy, yet seemingly true, stereotypes. She might obsess about having "nothing to wear" even while staring at a closet full of clothes (and discusses what's up with that). The guy? Well, it pegs most of us pretty well with "if it smells clean and resembles something from the last decade, we're fine." This book would make a wonderful gift for a bridal shower, a wedding gift, even for congregations to give to newly-weds as gifts. Planning a weekend couples retreat? Excellent book--to guide the weekend and for couples to carry that fire with them. The authors do address several guilt trips couples (and even non-couples) have about devotions. One is the shame and fear of being a "loser" if you miss a day. I would add that a couple should start. If you miss a day (or two or ten), pick up where you left off. As you become more accustomed to devotions, you'll find yourself missing them less and less. Just don't dwell in guilt on missing one.

this makes devotional time w/ your spouse fun! it's short, simple & puts things in a new & fresh perspective!

This book will have you laughing, smiling, crying, hugging....ok you get the drift. The Renfroes - comedian Anita and her husband John - have given couples everywhere a refreshing look at that ancient book of the Bible. This is truly the "devotional" - use that term loosely - for BOTH sides of the bed. It may take you a while getting through it...but you will undoubtedly be quite pleased - smile!