I Do Every Day

When the fairy tale goes south, couples often struggle to find help. By reaching out to trusted friends, wise parents, pastors, and counselors, as well as seeking prayer and guidance from God, couples can navigate even the toughest conflicts and strengthen their marriages.

A snorkeler and scuba diver, the author reflects on how his wife's desire for deeper connections in their friendship led him to adopt a more introspective approach, learning to ask thought-provoking questions and explore the depths of each other's hearts. By shifting from a self-seeking love to a more neighborly love, the couple has strengthened their bond and discovered a more meaningful way to connect with one another.

A mother's birthday celebration takes an unexpected turn when her daughter surprises her husband with a thoughtful gift, inspiring the mother to reevaluate her own approach to giving in their marriage. By embracing selflessness and generosity, couples can cultivate a deeper love and connection, as exemplified by Jesus' words "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them (Ps. 127:5). No longer will you try to change your kids... no longer will you consider them burdens.

Infidelity can have devastating consequences on a marriage, but restoration is possible through transparent communication, surrendering to God, and taking steps to rebuild trust. By understanding the true nature of infidelity and its lasting impact, couples can take proactive measures to protect their marriages and prevent future temptations.

In a humorous and relatable account, one husband recounts his misadventures in arguing with his wife over whether green beans are vegetables or legumes, ultimately learning that what she truly wants from him in heated moments is not intellectual validation but emotional connection. By embracing the biblical principle of loving his wife "in an understanding way," he discovers a profound truth about the nature of love and relationships.

As a newlywed, making rookie mistakes can be a recipe for disaster, but with self-awareness and effort, couples can avoid common pitfalls that can damage their relationship. By recognizing and addressing behaviors like mocking, generalizing, and public shaming, couples can cultivate a culture of love, kindness, and accountability that leads to a stronger, more fulfilling marriage.

Marriage is a unique blend of individual expectations and compromise, as couples navigate the complexities of love, communication, and shared goals. By embracing unity and open discussion, couples can create a thriving marriage that meets their evolving desires and fosters a deeper connection with one another.

Marriage can be a source of comfort and strength, even when it feels like it's not as good as it seems. By acknowledging the challenges and focusing on the positive aspects, couples can find hope and move forward in their fight for a stronger, healthier relationship.

Marriage can be a minefield of decisions, but with the right mindset, couples can overcome pride and prioritize God's will. By embracing daily habits that deny self-interest and cultivate humility, love, and patience, couples can resurrect their marriage and follow Jesus' call to love one another as He loves the church.

Arranged marriages may not be the romantic ideal, but research suggests that they can lead to just as fulfilling relationships as those based on love or choice. By shifting our focus from individual happiness to commitment and community, we can cultivate a more compassionate and sustainable approach to marriage.

A TV show reference to a character's financial crisis sparks a thought-provoking exploration of marriage and personal growth, leading to an unexpected yet profound realization about the nature of forgiveness and mercy. According to Dave Harvey, author of "When Sinners Say 'I Do'," declaring one's own spiritual bankruptcy is the key to unlocking a stronger, more forgiving relationship with one's spouse.

Feeling like a "total fraud" in your marriage is more common than you think, and it's okay to acknowledge your struggles. By letting go of guilt and seeking guidance from God and others, you can work towards a healthier relationship and find comfort in knowing that no one has a perfect marriage.

A DIY project takes an unexpected turn when the author's perfectionism clashes with his friend's laid-back attitude, leading to a humorous confrontation that ultimately teaches him a valuable lesson about prioritizing relationships over details. By sharing this relatable story, the article offers practical advice on how to navigate conflicts and maintain a healthy marriage by learning to laugh at ourselves and let go of unnecessary stress.

Now, our God, what shall we say after this? For we have forsaken Your commandments (Ezra 9:10). Anything of spiritual significance must always begin in one place—in personal, individual repentance.