As my wife Susan and I reflected on a friend’s recent wedding, we could see how weddings really can help strengthen our marriage. Here’s how. First, a wedding can inspire awe in us for our own marriage. Watching a couple start their new life together reminds us of where we were when we started AND how much we’ve grown. Second, weddings cause us to ponder our own commitment, if we’re willing to listen to the...
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Husbands and wives sometimes have unrealistic expectations of one another in marriage. But, there are a few things that a husband can and should expect from his wife. The first is respect. It’s one of the essentials men need in marriage?it's a fuel that drives them. You can keep his tank topped up with notes or words affirming his judgment and abilities. The second thing a husband should expect from his wife is...
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Your marriage has some nonnegotiables—a list of things your wife should be able to expect from you. Here are a few of them. First, trustworthy. That means you are who you say you are and will do what you say you’ll do. Second, faithful…not giving yourself away in any way to another woman…physically, mentally, or emotionally. Third, protector. Your wife and your children need to feel safe and protected—and not just...
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Every marriage is full of tough decisions that sometimes lead couples to disagree. But you can disagree in a kind and loving way. So here are 3 agreeable ways to disagree with your spouse. First, disagree with affirmation. Start off well by validating their position and by finding common ground with your spouse. Second, disagree with kindness. Disagreements are much more effective when each spouse agrees to use...
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For many couples, conflict occurs because they remember things differently. Sometimes the actual details are clear-cut, and a cool review and discussion will sort things out. But often it's just that men and women simply remember things differently because their brains are wired differently. It's why men are often single-minded and women can more easily multitask. When dealing with an important issue you each...
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Many people will offer advice for your marriage, but not all can be trusted. Signs of those who aren’t trustworthy include people that have never been committed to your marriage’s success, and people who are manipulative for their own benefit. However, signs of people who are trustworthy include those who have overcome big past failures by taking responsibility, and those who have peace in their life and in...
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Marriage means making mistakes—lots of mistakes. Unfortunately, some of those mistakes are harder to forgive than others. So here are 2 truths to consider when you’re struggling to forgive your husband. First, remember that someday the tables will turn and you’ll need forgiveness. Be ready to show him grace, knowing that eventually you’ll need his undeserved favor in return. Second, acknowledge that forgiveness is...
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