Love and Marriage

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When most people think of love and marriage, these concepts are usually associated with something they have seen on tv, the movies, or someone they know. Sadly, worldly values and attitudes on these two topics are often misinformed, misguided, and perverted.

Is it any wonder why half of all marriages fail and end in divorce? It is strange to think that people love the idea of being in love. 

However, love is not enough. Marriage is hard work and lots of it.

We have learned overtime that the key to a successful marriage is knowledge and applying that knowledge daily.  Although there are countless books about love and marriage, we believe the greatest authority on the subject is the One who created love and marriage... God.

We believe that if you don't first educate yourself (by reading the Bible) and learn from God (who is Love and who created marriage), then your only recourse is to learn from your parents, tradition, the media, pop culture, or from your own feelings and personal experiences...which may not always be right.

Once the initial excitement and newness of the marriage wears off, this lifelong commitment can still be a wonderful and amazing partnership as both husband and wife work consistently to learn and understand each other's needs and making it a priority to meet those needs. 

Apply these 10 tips for a healthy, successful marriage:

1: Keep God central in your marriage.

2. Pray together daily, even when there is conflict.

3. Practice effective communication by listening more than you speak. Create a positive environment for honest and open dialogue about your relationship, chores, kids, jobs, finances, dreams, etc.

4. Speak to your spouse words of love, kindness, appreciation, and affirmation daily. 

5. Agree on marriage rules and set boundaries for in-laws, extended family members, friends, co-workers, etc.

6. Avoid finding fault. Find a solution together. Be quick to apologize and take responsibility for your mistakes. 

7. Make time for each other. Don't become complacent and take each other for granted. Be spontaneous and have fun together.  

8. Do what is required. There are no roles in marriage.

9. Have a solid, supportive network of healthy, happily married couples.

10. Commit to self-improvement and marriage development.