I Do Every Day

A bargain hunter's approach to marriage is put to the test when one partner offers a paltry $2 in commitment, highlighting the tension between settling for less and investing in a long-term relationship. By examining Jesus' example of selfless love and obedience, the author argues that true commitment requires more than just token gestures, but rather a willingness to put in the effort required to build a lasting partnership.

As a couple navigates the ups and downs of life, doing their spouse "good" requires more than just good intentions - it demands intentional effort and sacrifice. By making small choices to bless each other, couples can experience the profound truth that "it is more blessed to give than to receive," as Jesus taught in Matthew 20:28.

A popular magazine advice columnist suggests that "white lies" can be a form of social grace, but the author questions whether this approach truly embodies God's truth. By exploring the complexities of honesty and kindness in marriage, the article offers practical guidance on how to navigate difficult conversations with empathy and integrity.

A successful surgery requires meticulous planning and execution, yet post-operative complications can still arise, including infections that can wreak havoc on the body. Similarly, unchecked sexual sin can fester and consume an individual's life, threatening to cripple their relationships, making it essential to establish barriers to protect one's marriage from such "infections".

A couple's unconventional strategy for avoiding conflicts has yielded surprisingly positive results, allowing them to navigate heated arguments with greater ease and maintain their relationship. By introducing a simple yet effective "take it back" clause, they've learned to pause, reflect, and communicate more effectively, drawing on biblical principles of humility and self-awareness.

A young couple's first major fight over a seemingly minor issue reveals underlying tensions and clashes of values that persist 25 years later. This personal anecdote serves as a catalyst for exploring what truly makes a marriage stronger, drawing on biblical principles and insights from experts David and Meg Robbins.

A husband's flaws are often overlooked in favor of his strengths, but what happens when the pedestal is knocked off? A personal essay explores the author's journey of learning to see her partner as a human being, rather than a superhero, and finding freedom and growth in their relationship.

When a seemingly minor disagreement escalates into full-blown conflict, it can be a revealing moment for our true character. By examining the root causes of anger and its destructive potential, we can learn to recognize when our emotions are taking over and take steps to reclaim our lives and relationships.

A chance encounter with a volunteer at a FamilyLife Weekend to Remember event sparks a profound realization for the author about his own marriage and the power of intentional gratitude and admiration in relationships. By sharing a personal story of how cultivating positive thoughts about his wife transformed his life, the author invites readers to reflect on their own marriages and consider the impact of verbal affirmation on their partner's well-being.

A newlywed shares a humorous anecdote about his wife's reaction to an unmet expectation, highlighting the importance of loving one another without strings attached. By examining this relatable scenario through the lens of biblical principles, readers can gain insight into how to cultivate a deeper, more selfless love in their own marriages.

A pastor's idealized family background contrasts sharply with the author's own experiences of poverty, violence, and faithlessness, highlighting the challenges of following God in a world where righteous living can be uncomfortable and even threatening. By examining their own spiritual legacy and the choices they make for themselves and their households, individuals can choose to serve someone different and live out their faith in a way that is authentic and meaningful.

As parents, Lisa Lakey and her husband experienced a profound shift in their relationship, transforming from carefree couples to frazzled caregivers. In this candid essay, Lakey shares the challenges of maintaining emotional, physical, and spiritual connection with her spouse during the busy years of parenting, offering practical advice on how to stay close despite life's demands.

As we navigate the complexities of marriage and conflict, it's essential to consider when to confront and when to overlook, just as a photographer must balance focus on beauty with attention to imperfection. By examining questions like these, couples can learn to apply biblical principles of patience and kindness to create a culture of unmerited forgiveness in their relationships.

As Christ followers, the Holy Spirit is the unbreakable connection that binds husbands and wives together in marriage, forming an unshakeable bond that lasts forever. By cultivating spiritual intimacy through honesty, active listening, and shared prayer, couples can tap into this powerful force to strengthen their relationship and overcome life's challenges.

A husband's willingness to tell his wife the unvarnished truth, even when it's uncomfortable, can be a powerful catalyst for growth and intimacy in their relationship. By embracing this approach, couples can build trustworthiness and foster a deeper understanding of each other's struggles and weaknesses.