Marriage in the Real World

Whether you’ve been married five years or fifty, you know life with your spouse is filled with its share of magic (when your relationship’s firing on all cylinders) and laugh-outloud moments — as well as those moments of outright miscommunication and downright conflict. Perhaps your needs for intimacy no longer match those of your partner, and you’re battling frustration or discouragement. Perhaps your relationship suddenly seems one-sided, or has become sidetracked by something as seemingly innocuous as fascination with social media or by pressing parenting problems, job changes, or even health concerns. Then there’s that little thing called “romance.”  Yes, romance is the icing on your marriage cake, but let’s face it, life often isn’t very romantic. The act of continually knitting together the busy lives of two imperfect people into a healthy Christian marriage can be a daunting task requiring loads of hard work, creativity, and reliance on God.

Anyone who’s been married for any length of time can relate to the challenges that crop up whenever you seek to build a more positive, joyful, and God-honoring union. That’s married life in the real world. The following articles will help you celebrate the unique life you share with your spouse in all its wonder — for it can be wonderful! — as well as guide you in your desire to up your love, better serve each other, and bridge the gap between differing needs – physical and emotional – and communication styles, so your marriage can stand the test of time.