For those couples who’ve decided that divorce isn’t an option, what happens when you experience those marriage valleys? It’s easy to think your current challenge will last always. You may feel the frustration and be all out of suggestions for improvements—especially within the confines of a marriage. In those moments, some couples automatically think of leaving. However, for those other couples, the decision to weather the storm has already been made.
When you remove the idea of divorce from your list of options and your conversation, you’re forced to realize all the other options. Here are a few suggestions:
You could ask God for guidance
Seek answers on how you can improve as a spouse. We all have room for growth, believe me I know. Allow God’s Word to minister to both you and your partner. Pray for your strength, your spouse and the marriage in general. Connect with a marriage ministry, where the goal is helping couples build healthy relationships.
You could fight for your marriage
Decide to fight by recognizing the problem, admitting your faults and making sacrifices. Fighting for anything is uncomfortable, and it stretches you. When you’re truly working at healing your marriage, you’ll feel it, and so will your spouse. Equip yourself with the tools you’ll need to weather the storm.
You could communication better
Communicate everything and listen intently when it comes to navigating through those relationship hurdles. You will receive all the information you need to know by paying attention and communicating with your spouse. Share what’s lacking. Ask for clarity when you need it, and pay close attention to body language and what isn’t being said. Communicating effectively will easily restore peace to a marriage.
You could seek a relationship coach
A coach can help to facilitate the conversation and share successful tips and tools. Sometimes couples simply can’t do it alone. They can get so caught up in their own needs it becomes difficult to view a situation from their partner’s perspective. A neutral resource is extremely beneficial.
Couples may think their options are limited when it comes to healing a relationship. There are resources right at our fingertips, if we want them. When you decide divorce isn’t an option, recognize that prayer, effort and energy, communication and professional resources are all very viable options.
BMWK, what are other options for healing a marriage?