However, the challenges of the world can often test even the strongest relationships.

You cannot take for granted one moment of your relationship with your spouse. Next to your relationship with God, that is the most important one. Because your family is only as strong as your marriage.

Now, that’s a strong statement. But in today’s world, there are so many distractions and temptations that you have to be ever so diligent and consistent in pouring into your marriage.

You deserve it, and so does your spouse.

So what Pastor Duane is saying here is that you must prioritize now, and not wait until there is a crisis.

Prioritize Your Marriage NOW!

The K.I.S.S. ~ Prioritize your marriage NOW!

1. Communicate Effectively

Open and honest communication forms the backbone of a strong and thriving marriage. It is the foundation upon which trust and understanding are built. To establish strong anchor lines through communication, spouses should:

– Active Listening: Listening attentively to your partner’s words, feelings, and concerns without interruption fosters a deep sense of validation. It shows respect, builds empathy, and strengthens the emotional bond between partners.

– Expressing Emotions Constructively: Sharing thoughts, needs, and emotions in a considerate and positive manner helps to bridge any gaps in understanding. Avoiding criticism and defensiveness creates a safe space where both partners feel heard and valued.

– Regular Check-Ins: Initiate open conversations regularly to discuss the highs and lows of each other’s lives. Whether through date nights, walk-and-talks, or simply setting aside dedicated time to connect, these check-ins establish a supportive atmosphere that strengthens the marital bond.

2. Cultivate Trust

Trust forms the bedrock of a thriving marriage, nourishing emotional intimacy and fostering a sense of security. To cultivate trust and establish strong anchor lines, spouses should:

– Honesty and Transparency: Being truthful and open about both the positive and challenging aspects of life cultivates an environment of trust. Sharing vulnerabilities and fears often lead to a deeper connection and a shared commitment to navigating through life together.

– Consistency and Reliability: Showing up consistently and following through on commitments demonstrates reliability. Being someone that your partner can depend on creates a strong sense of security and stability in the relationship.

– Respecting Boundaries: Respecting each other’s boundaries and personal space is essential for building trust. It shows a deep understanding and acceptance of your partner’s individuality while fostering mutual respect.

3. Prioritize Quality Time

Amidst the busyness of life, making intentional efforts to spend quality time together is vital for nurturing a thriving marriage. To establish strong anchor lines through quality time, spouses should:

– Date Nights: Regularly scheduling date nights allows partners to reconnect and create cherished memories. It provides an opportunity to prioritize each other, fostering a deeper emotional bond.

– Shared Hobbies and Interests: Exploring shared hobbies and interests enhances the quality of time spent together. Engaging in activities that both partners enjoy helps to strengthen the sense of companionship and understanding within the marriage.

– Mindful Presence: Being fully present during moments spent together, whether it’s during conversations, meals, or shared experiences, is crucial. Dedicating uninterrupted time and actively engaging in communication helps to deepen the emotional connection between partners.

I cannot stress enough the key to a strong marriage is the foundation you build. And that comes from building strong anchor lines in your marriage. You’ve got to have a continuous and intentional process that keeps the line of communication open, cultivates trust, and prioritizes quality time together. If you have these three, you are on your way to a solid foundation.

Now, I believe you have to have it all in the fabric of God. But you can thrive, regardless of what you’ve been through in your marriage up until today, this moment, do this and you will be on your way to ensuring a thriving and lifelong bond. Remember, there’s no time like the present to strengthen the anchor lines connecting two hearts in love.

“Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!“