Faithful Efforts to Save Your Marriage By Yourself: A Christian Perspective
In the journey of marriage, not every path is smooth.
At times, you may find yourself acting alone, striving to mend the bond that appears fractured.
This task may seem daunting, but with God’s guidance, it is not impossible.
Remember, “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder” (Mark 10:9).
This scripture reminds us of the sacredness of marriage and encourages us to work towards reconciliation, even when faced with adversity.
Drawing Strength from Scripture
If you find yourself needing to save your marriage alone, consider the words of Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
This powerful verse reassures us that, even solo, our efforts are fortified by our faith and the omnipresent strength of the Lord.
A followers of Christ, we are never alone.
Moving Beyond Past Mistakes
Often, in times of marital strife, there’s a temptation to dwell on past mistakes.
However, as Ephesians 4:31-32 teaches us, “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”
This passage encourages us to forgive and move forward, not trapping our relationships in a cycle of negativity.
Forgiveness is a fundamental principle, echoed throughout scripture and serving as the cornerstone of our relationship with God and each other.
As Ephesians 4:32 instructs, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
This passage calls on us to extend forgiveness to our spouses, just as we have been forgiven by God.
By letting go of past grievances, we open the door to healing and renewal in our marriages.
Forgiving does not mean forgetting or excusing the hurt, but rather choosing to release the hold it has on our hearts.
This is vital in a marriage where old wounds can easily become stumbling blocks that prevent forward movement and growth.
Forgiveness allows couples to break free from the cycle of resentment and bitterness, building an environment where love can flourish anew.
Renewing Love Through Compassionate Understanding
Moving beyond past mistakes also involves a commitment to understanding and empathy.
James 1:19 reminds us, “Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.”
Please read that verse again.
Applying this wisdom in marriage encourages us to listen deeply to our spouse’s perspective, seeking to understand their experiences and emotions without quick judgment or anger.
This kind of compassionate listening can help clarify misunderstandings and illuminate the reasons behind actions that may have hurt us.
When both partners engage in this kind of empathetic communication, it opens up space for genuine healing.
It helps each person see the other not as an adversary but as a companion in the journey of life, each with their own struggles and shortcomings.
Committing to Change and Growth
True forgiveness is complemented by a commitment to change and personal growth.
While forgiving past mistakes, it’s essential to look forward and take actionable steps toward preventing those mistakes from recurring.
This may involve setting new boundaries, seeking marriage counseling, or simply adopting new communication strategies.
For instance, if neglect or inattention has been an issue, committing to regular date nights or specific times to connect each day can be a practical step toward healing.
As mentioned in Colossians 3:10, “And have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator,” we are called to continually renew ourselves.
This renewal process involves actively working to improve how we love and treat our spouse, reflecting the love and patience that God shows us.
Living Out Forgiveness in Daily Actions
Living out forgiveness means making daily choices that reflect this commitment.
It’s about the small, everyday actions that show your spouse you have truly moved past old hurts.
This might look like speaking kindly even when frustrated, showing gratitude for the small things, or offering help without being asked.
As Galatians 5:22-23 describes the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—embodying these qualities can transform a marriage.
By nurturing these fruits in our daily lives, we not only live according to God’s will but also create a marriage that is resilient and grounded in mutual respect and affection.
Ultimately, moving beyond past mistakes in marriage is about forging a path forward that is anchored in faith, hope, and love.
It involves embracing forgiveness as both a divine gift and a practical tool for healing, understanding deeply, committing to change, and living out these principles daily.
By doing so, couples can rebuild trust and strengthen their bond, paving the way for a renewed relationship that reflects the grace and love of Christ.
Intentionally Positive Interactions
Proverbs 15:1 says, “A soft answer turns away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”
This wisdom suggests that nurturing positive interactions and responding with gentleness can be more effective in healing and rebuilding a marriage than dwelling on conflicts or errors.
Gratitude and Appreciation
In any relationship, and especially in marriage, an atmosphere of gratitude is crucial.
The Bible encourages us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
Applying this to marriage, it’s important to express appreciation for your spouse regularly.
This could be as simple as thanking them for everyday activities, acknowledging their efforts in work or home, or expressing gratitude for their presence and support in your life.
Such expressions of gratitude not only uplift the receiver but also reinforce the value of the relationship, strengthening the marital bond.
Encouraging Words and Affirmations
Proverbs 16:24 – “Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
Ephesians 4:29 – “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
Colossians 4:6 – “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt…”
James 3:9-10 – “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.”
1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up…”
In the context of marriage, the words we choose to speak to our spouse can have a profound impact on the emotional climate of the relationship.
Regularly using affirming words, speaking kindly, and offering encouragement can act as a balm, soothing past hurts and building or rebuilding a deeper connection.
These positive interactions help build up a spouse’s self-esteem and reinforce their worth in the marriage, creating a cycle of positivity and warmth that benefits both partners.
Sharing Joyful Experiences
Ecclesiastes 9:9 encourages us to enjoy life with the spouse we love.
Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, all the days of this meaningless life that God has given you under the sun—all your meaningless days. For this is your lot in life and in your toilsome labor under the sun. Ecclesiastes 9:9
Sharing joyful experiences can be a powerful way to add positive interactions.
This might involve setting aside time for activities that both partners enjoy, whether it’s a shared hobby, a regular outing, or simply spending time in nature together.
These shared moments create memories that can serve as reminders of the joy in the relationship, especially during times of strain or stress.
That was the basic version. The ideal way to truly share joyful experiences would be to share a hobby that you both enjoy.
It might sound simplistic or obvious, but if a married couple plays together, they increase their closeness and intimacy.
Here is a detailed list of hobbies married couples can share.
Implementing Positive Communication Practices
James 1:19 advises us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.”
In marriage, implementing positive communication practices means actively listening to your spouse without interruption, truly considering their perspective, and responding with thoughtfulness rather than reacting out of emotion.
This approach reduces conflicts and misunderstandings and builds a foundation of trust and respect.
It’s also beneficial to establish regular check-ins or communication rituals where both partners can share their thoughts, feelings, and needs in a safe and supportive environment.
Above all, don’t yell!
Yelling is vocal violence and it DESTROYS closness in couples.
It’s one of the worst things that you could do to your spouse and your marriage.
Creating a Spirit of Partnership
Galatians 6:2 tells us to “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
In a marriage, this can be interpreted as working together to face life’s challenges.
Creating a spirit of partnership means tackling problems together, making decisions jointly, and supporting each other’s personal growth and aspirations.
This collaborative approach strengthens the marital bond, as both partners feel valued and understood, reducing feelings of isolation or unilateral burden-bearing.
Conclusion: Sustaining Love Through Positive Interactions
Having positive interactions in a marriage is about more than just avoiding negativity; it’s about actively building a relationship that reflects the love, joy, peace, and patience described in the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
By feeling and expressing gratitude, speaking kindly, sharing joyful experiences, practicing positive communication, and creating a spirit of partnership, couples can develop a resilient, loving relationship that stands strong against the challenges of life.
These practices not only honor God’s design for marriage but also bring immense fulfillment and happiness to both partners, illuminating the path to a lasting and satisfying union.
Strategic and Prayerful Contact
If your spouse wants to leave or has left, the concept of strategic contact involves wisely choosing moments to communicate, which aligns well with the Biblical principle of acting with wisdom and discretion (Proverbs 11:2).
It’s about respecting boundaries while keeping communication channels open, with the hope that this approach will lead to reconciliation and healing.
During these efforts, constant prayer for guidance and patience is crucial, as advised in 1 Thessalonians 5:17, “Pray without ceasing.”
Resisting the Urge to Separate
The decision to avoid separation, unless absolutely necessary, can be supported by 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, which urges couples not to separate but to work towards reconciliation:
To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife. 1 Corinthians 7:10-11
This scripture can be a guiding light for those striving to save their marriage under the same roof, advocating for patience and faithfulness.
Rekindling Physical and Emotional Intimacy
The importance of physical intimacy and sex in marriage can be seen in 1 Corinthians 7:5:
“Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; but then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.” This passage highlights the role of intimacy in strengthening marital bonds and maintaining a spiritually and emotionally fulfilling relationship.” 1 Corinthians 7:5
In the Christian view, marriage is a covenant that mirrors the relationship between Christ and the Church—a profound union of mutual love, sacrifice, and commitment.
Physical and emotional intimacy are foundational aspects of this union, not only enhancing marital happiness but also fulfilling God’s design for marriage to be a deeply relational and intimate partnership.
Scripturally, sexual intimacy in marriage is affirmed in verses like Hebrews 13:4, which states, “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure.”
This underscores the sanctity of marital intimacy and its role in the spiritual and emotional health of both partners.
Reviving Emotional Intimacy
Emotional intimacy involves a deep connection that allows spouses to share their innermost thoughts, fears, and hopes.
To build or rebuild this:
Open Communication: Encourage regular, open discussions about each other’s feelings and experiences.
As James 1:19 suggests, be “quick to listen” and slow to speak, ensuring both partners feel heard and valued.
Quality Time Together: Dedicate time to be together without distractions.
Engage in activities that both enjoy, which can create shared experiences and memories, strengthening your bond.
Spiritual Unity: Engage in spiritual activities together, such as prayer, worship, and Bible study.
Ecclesiastes 4:12 notes, “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
This verse highlights the strength found in a couple’s unity with each other and with God.
Enhancing Physical Intimacy
Physical intimacy plays a crucial role in a healthy marriage, offering unique expressions of love and connection that are reserved exclusively for the marital relationship.
Enhancing this aspect involves:
Understanding and Meeting Needs: Communicate openly about physical needs and desires. This conversation should be handled with sensitivity and love, ensuring that both partners feel respected and cared for.
Maintaining Physical Connection: Regular physical affection, such as holding hands, hugging, and kissing, can maintain and enhance a sense of closeness.
1 Corinthians 7:3-5 emphasizes the importance of fulfilling marital duties to each other, reflecting mutual care and dedication.
Navigating Challenges Together: Address any physical or emotional barriers to intimacy, such as stress, health issues, or past trauma.
Seeking counsel from trusted advisors or professional counselors can be beneficial.
Creating a Positive and Respectful Atmosphere
A positive home environment greatly contributes to both emotional and physical intimacy.
This includes:
Mutual Respect and Kindness: Treat each other with respect and kindness in all interactions, as Colossians 3:19 instructs husbands to love their wives and avoid bitterness. This applies equally to both spouses.
Forgiveness and Grace: Extend forgiveness and grace to each other, acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes and needs patience.
Ephesians 4:32 encourages believers to be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you.
A Renewed Path to Intimacy
Rekindling physical and emotional intimacy in marriage is not just about returning to a former state but about growing into a deeper, more mature love.
This journey involves commitment, understanding, and intentional effort from both partners.
By applying Biblical principles and actively seeking to meet each other’s needs, couples can strengthen their union and experience the fullness of joy and fulfillment that God intends for marriage.
Through this, the marriage can become a testament to the power of God’s love and grace working within the covenant of marriage.
Maintaining Self-Respect and Mutual Respect
Colossians 3:19 instructs, “Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.”
This guidance applies to both spouses, advocating for a relationship built on mutual respect and love.
Standing up for oneself respectfully can enhance mutual understanding and build a healthier, more resilient marriage.
Ephesians 5:33 states, “However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”
This verse encapsulates the reciprocal responsibilities that husbands and wives have towards each other, emphasizing love and respect as foundational elements in a Christian marriage.
Integrating Love and Respect
In the context of rekindling intimacy—both physical and emotional—understanding and applying the principles of love and respect are essential:
For Husbands: The call to love their wives as they love themselves is a profound one, requiring empathy, sacrifice, and a deep commitment to the wellbeing of their spouse.
This kind of love seeks to understand and meet the emotional and physical needs of the wife, creating a safe and nurturing environment that fosters intimacy.
For Wives: Respecting their husbands involves honoring their role within the marriage, supporting their decisions, and communicating in ways that uphold their dignity. This respect will contribute to a mutual sense of trust and admiration.
Balancing the Equation
When both partners focus on fulfilling their Biblical roles—husbands loving deeply and wives giving respect—the relationship is likely to thrive.
This balance creates an environment where both feel valued and understood, paving the way for deeper intimacy and connection.
Incorporating Scriptural Principles in Everyday Life
Applying these principles is not just about adhering to Biblical commands but about fostering a relationship that reflects the character of Christ.
As couples strive to embody these values, they not only enrich their marriage but also offer a powerful witness to the transformative power of Christian love and respect.
So, your point is well-taken, and including Ephesians 5:33 provides a more complete Biblical framework for discussing how to foster and maintain a loving and respectful marriage, essential for rekindling and sustaining intimacy.
Renewing Commitment Daily
Every day is an opportunity to renew commitment to your spouse and to God’s plan for your marriage.
Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds us of the renewing grace of God: “The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
This can inspire couples to persist in their efforts, renewed by faith each day.
Strengthening Family Ties
Finally, reinforcing family bonds and focusing on creating a nurturing environment for all family members can echo the Biblical value of family unity found in Psalms 133:1, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”
This verse encourages maintaining a loving and supportive home, essential for the well-being of each family member and the marital relationship.
A Journey of Faith and Renewal
Saving a marriage alone can be a profound journey of personal and spiritual growth.
With reliance on God’s word, prayer, and dedicated action, this challenging path can lead to a renewed, more fulfilling marital relationship.
Each step taken in faith and love brings you closer not just to restoring your marriage but to living out the divine harmony intended by God for your family.
Get my free mini-course to save your marriage!
Sincerely,
Coach Lee