Simple Ways to Strengthen Your Marriage

April 20, 2009



In preparing to teach chapter 5 of Ephesians I came across the article "24 Ways to Strengthen your Marriage" by the Crosswalk.com staff. I normally do not like books or articles such as this however since I was in the research part of my preparation I decided to read it anyway. From my perspective, marriage is very hard and requires a lot of work and commitment. That being said, I have been rewarded with sweet loving satisfaction and growth with the one I love.

Being the best partner possible is not always easy. At times it's not fair. At times it hurts; it can be lonely. It involves choosing to love your partner whether he or she deserves it or not. It involves continuing the initial vows you made when you began your marriage. While the article list 24 ways, here are a few that struck me.

• Start each day with a kiss. Decide to begin the day with love.

• Wear your wedding ring at all times. Let it be a visual reminder of your commitment.

• Accept differences. Try to remember that once you thought your spouse's idiosyncrasies were cute. Your chances of changing them are slim, so decide to live with them.

• Be polite. Are you more polite to co-workers or store clerks than you are to the one you love? Practice good manners at home.

• Be gentle. Harsh words and actions have no place in your home. Choose to be kind to those you love and who love you.

• Smile often. Put on a happy face and let it determine your disposition. Remember how meaningful the glances were which you once gave each other.

• Touch. A pat on the back or a soft caress of the cheek can show love and connection. Hold hands while watching TV.

• Talk about dreams. Get your conversation beyond coordinating schedules and talking about the kids. Take time to talk about ideas and dreams.

• Laugh together. Find something daily to share a laugh about. Life is complete with laughter.

• Do what your spouse wants before being asked. Anticipate your spouse's needs and jump right in to help. Put his or her needs before your own comfort.

• Listen. You don't have to solve problems, just be an active listener. Turn off the TV, put down the newspaper, and give your spouse your full attention.

• Encourage. The best way to give support is to encourage your spouse to do his or her best, to feel confident, or accomplish great things.

• Apologize. Almost as good as I love you is I'm sorry, forgive me. Marriage isn't a game where you keep score. It's not important who's right.

• Ask, What can I do to make you happier? You may be surprised at how simple it is to please your spouse.

• Pray for your spouse daily. Don't let a day go by without praying for your marriage, your spouse, and your family.

• Watch sunsets together. Find the beauty in life and share it.

Seems simple enough, I wonder why we don't do some of these things?

T