Many of us expect our spouse to “just know” what we are thinking or feeling.  After years with each other, we begin to expect our spouse to know we’ve had a bad day, that we’re tired, or that we want affection.  They “should just know,” right?  Well, that’s not realistic!  Years of experience make it easier to predict your spouse’s response, but it’s no substitute for communication.  If you want your spouse to...

The best time for marriage counseling is before you need it.  Marriage counseling teaches couples how to work through their differences, communicate better, and solve problems in the relationship.  So why don’t more people do it?  Well, many couples feel that their private life should be just that—private.  They feel there is a stigma associated with seeking counseling.  But there are times when a third party...

Great leaders build strong families.  Here are 3 tools to help you lead your family well.  Tool one: Love.  Loving your spouse and kids is key to building a stronger family.  Love must be your highest priority.  You must love your family well to lead your family well.  Tool two: Serve.  Serving your family and putting their needs above your own shows you want to help them succeed in whatever they are doing.  Tool...

In a merger, two groups contract to join forces within a certain period of time. In a marriage, two people covenant to become one—and that's a lifelong process.  It doesn't just happen in deep discussions and major moments, great as those times may be.  It also occurs in the small, daily things of life when you are intentional about growing together with your spouse. Whether it's cooking together, exercising...

As the years tick away, it’s easy to treat your anniversary like it’s no big deal.  Well, even if you don’t have an elaborate celebration, taking the time to honor your commitment can be uplifting for your marriage.  So, at the very least, get a card, write a note and share how much your spouse means to you.  Then, tell them face-to-face, you love them.  Spend time with your spouse, whether it’s a romantic evening...

We’ve all heard the saying: Let’s Agree to Disagree.  But when it comes to a healthy marriage, there are certain things couples MUST agree on.  First, you must agree on when and how to discipline your kids.  That means you must be unified and consistent when disciplining your children. Always remember that you and your spouse are supposed to be on the same team. Second, you must agree on how to handle money.  Be...

Like most couples, you poured immense energy and resources into planning your big day.  But your wedding was only one day… your marriage is for a lifetime.  Here are some things you did to prepare for your wedding that you should continue to do in your marriage.  First, create a budget to help you make smart money decisions.  Second, work every day to meet your spouse’s emotional needs.  Third, be intentional...