Ep 54 - Praying As A Couple Operation: Thriving Marriage podcast

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Ep 80 - What is Love 23:44

منذ 19 يومًا23:44

23:44

Episode 75: What Is Love? - Operation: Thriving Marriage Welcome back to Operation: Thriving Marriage! In today’s episode, we dive into one of the most fundamental aspects of both faith and relationships: What Is Love? Episode Summary: Love is often misunderstood in our culture, reduced to just a fleeting emotion or romantic ideal. But Jesus commands us to love, which means love must be more than just a feeling—it’s an attitude and an action as well. In this episode, we explore what the Bible teaches about love and how understanding love biblically can strengthen our marriages. Key Topics Discussed: •Love as the Foundation of Kingdom Living: From creation to redemption, everything God does is rooted in love. •Love in Culture vs. Love in Scripture: How modern music and entertainment often distort the true meaning of love. •The Command to Love: Jesus tells us to love one another (John 13:34-35) and love God and our neighbors (Mark 12:28-31). •Love as Emotion, Attitude, and Action: •Emotion: While emotions are natural responses, love isn’t just about how we feel. •Attitude: Love is a choice. We control our attitudes and can choose to see the best in our spouse. •Action: True love requires action, even when it’s inconvenient or sacrificial. •The Example of David and Jonathan (1 Samuel 18 & 20): Jonathan’s love for David was more than just a feeling—it was shown through trust, support, and sacrifice. •Practical Ways to Love in Marriage: •Choosing to believe the best in your spouse. •Showing love through acts of service and sacrifice. •Cultivating love over time through intentional attitudes and actions. Key Takeaways: 1.Love isn’t just a feeling—it’s a commitment. 2.We have control over our attitude toward our spouse. Choosing love daily leads to a stronger, thriving marriage. 3.Actions shape emotions. When we serve and love sacrificially, our feelings of love grow deeper over time. Join the Conversation: How do you intentionally choose love in your marriage? Let us know in the comments or on social media! Subscribe & Share: If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others who want to build a thriving marriage. Follow Us: •Website: OperationThrivingMarriage.com •Facebook: Operation Thriving Marriage •Instagram: operationthrivingmarriage Let’s build thriving marriages together—one loving choice at a time!…

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Ep 78 - We Marry Our Unfinished Business 25:47

منذ عام واحد25:47

25:47

In this episode of Operation: Thriving Marriage, we dive into the idea that we often marry our unfinished business. Relationship patterns, childhood wounds, and unmet emotional needs can shape our marriages in ways we don’t even realize. But the good news? With self-awareness and God’s guidance, we can break free from unhealthy cycles and build stronger, healthier marriages. Psychotherapist Lori Gottlieb once said, “We marry our unfinished business.” But what does that mean? Many of us didn’t receive the love, support, or affirmation we needed growing up, so we subconsciously seek a spouse who will fill those emotional gaps. However, we are often drawn to what is familiar even if it’s unhealthy. This means we may end up in relationships that mirror the same emotional voids we experienced as children. In these situations, spouses may try to change each other to get the love and validation they’ve always wanted. This cycle creates tension, unmet expectations, and a dysfunctional marriage dynamic. God calls us to move forward, leaving behind the baggage that holds us back. As Paul says in Philippians 3:12-14 (NET): Not that I have already attained this that is, I have not already been perfected but I strive to lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus also laid hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself to have attained this. Instead, I am single-minded: Forgetting the things that are behind and reaching out for the things that are ahead, with this goal in mind, I strive toward the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. This principle applies to every aspect of life including marriage. If we want a thriving marriage, we must be willing to leave behind past wounds and step into the future God has for us. The first step is to identify your own unfinished business. This is about you, not your spouse. What emotional wounds or patterns are you carrying into your marriage? Are you expecting your spouse to fill a void that only God can truly heal? Once you recognize these patterns, acknowledge how they affect your marriage. Be honest with yourself and your spouse about past hurts. Open up about what’s going on inside, and listen to your spouse’s observations without becoming defensive. Deciding how to resolve your unfinished business is crucial. Who do you need to forgive? Are there past relationships family, friends, or exes you need to make peace with? What toxic mindsets do you need to let go of? Do you need professional counseling or therapy to help process these issues? Taking steps to heal will not only strengthen you as an individual but will also transform your marriage. Every marriage comes with baggage but that baggage doesn’t have to define your relationship. God designed marriage as a place where we can heal, grow, and become more like Christ. By recognizing our unfinished business and committing to personal growth, we allow God to shape us into the spouses He created us to be. Let’s make 2025 the year of a thriving marriageâ€”not by changing our spouse, but by allowing God to change us. Don’t miss this powerful conversation! Subscribe to Operation: Thriving Marriage on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review. If this episode spoke to you, share it with a friend! #MarriageGoals #ThrivingMarriage #NewYearNewMarriage #ChristianMarriage #RelationshipAdvice…

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Ep 77 - Commitment: Not Getting Divorced is not Enough 20:27

منذ عام واحد20:27

20:27

Podcast Notes for Operation: Thriving Marriage Episode 78: Commitment is More Than Not Getting Divorced Commitment in marriage is often misunderstood. Many couples believe it simply means not getting divorced, but staying married isn’t enough to create a thriving relationship. True commitment requires more than avoiding separation—it’s about intentionally nurturing your marriage every day. A thriving marriage requires constant care, attention, and prioritization. Without this, couples may find themselves in a relationship that feels like a burden rather than a joy. When commitment is misunderstood, it often leads to dissatisfaction and unfulfilled expectations. Couples who don’t prioritize their marriage may look for fulfillment outside the relationship, not necessarily through affairs but by escaping into work, hobbies, nonsexual relationships, or even vices like alcohol. While these escapes might seem harmless, they undermine the emotional and spiritual connection that a marriage needs to flourish. Over time, this shallow understanding of commitment leads to dissatisfaction, stunted spiritual growth, and a marriage that falls short of God’s intended design. True commitment in marriage goes beyond maintaining a legal relationship or living under the same roof. It means actively pursuing safety, intimacy, and growth within the relationship. The Bible provides the ultimate example of this type of commitment through God’s relentless pursuit of us, even when we fall short. This is the model for marriage: a relentless, loving pursuit of your spouse. Commitment means doing your part regardless of your spouse’s actions, prioritizing the relationship above everything else, even things that feel rewarding or important, like work, hobbies, or even church activities. A mediocre marriage isn’t God’s plan for you. Instead, pursue a relationship that is joyful, fulfilling, and spiritually enriching. Don’t settle for “meh,” and never give up on the commitment you’ve made, even if your spouse struggles. God’s example reminds us of the power of perseverance and grace in relationships. Commitment is not just about avoiding divorce—it’s about loving, pursuing, and prioritizing your spouse daily. The Bible shows us that true commitment mirrors God’s relentless love for us, emphasizing grace, sacrifice, and a deep connection. Let’s reject the mindset of simply “staying together” and instead strive for a thriving, joy-filled marriage that reflects God’s design. If this episode inspired you, subscribe to Operation: Thriving Marriage and share it with someone who needs encouragement. Together, we can build marriages that honor God and bring joy to our lives.…

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Ep 76 - Why Men Don’t Feel Safe 19:20

منذ عام واحد19:20

19:20

Podcast Notes for Operation: Thriving Marriage Episode 76: Things That Hurt Men Introduction In marriage, safety should be foundational—just as it is in the military. While service members are trained to recognize and defend against dangers, the same principle applies to relationships. Marriage should be the safest human connection, but achieving this requires understanding and addressing the risks that threaten that safety. This episode focuses on the dangers men often face silently in marriage. We’ll uncover some common insecurities and challenges that men rarely communicate about until it’s too late. Key Takeaways: •Marriage should be the safest human relationship you experience. •Understanding potential dangers to relational safety is vital for both partners. •Husbands and wives must work together to create an environment of openness and trust. The Problem Men often struggle to communicate about relationships and emotions, leaving risks and insecurities unspoken. This lack of communication can prevent wives from understanding what needs to be defended against, leading to a sense of disconnection and a lack of safety in marriage. The Solution In this episode, we’ll explore: 1.Common struggles and insecurities that men face in marriage. 2.Practical ways to start conversations that build stronger connections. 3.Why wives shouldn’t try to “diagnose” their husbands but instead create a safe space for dialogue. Encouragement for Husbands: It’s time to take a risk and be vulnerable. Ignoring these struggles won’t make them disappear. Honest conversations with your wife will lead to the love and safety you both desire. Encouragement for Wives: Your role is to listen without judgment or trying to fix things. Support your husband by creating an environment where he feels safe to open up. Common Struggles for Men 1.Fear of Failure •Men are often taught that failure is unacceptable, tying their identity and worth to success. •This fear drives many men to become workaholics, sacrificing relationships and well-being. 2.Emotional Suppression •Men are conditioned not to express their emotions, leading to distance, anxiety, depression, and even health issues like high blood pressure. •While younger generations are improving in emotional openness, many men still struggle with vulnerability. 3.Trouble with Intimacy •Men often equate their worth in romance with sexual performance, creating pressure in the bedroom. •Women, on the other hand, typically require emotional connection for intimacy, which can be difficult when men struggle with vulnerability in other areas. Overcoming These Struggles •For Husbands: •Take the risk to be honest with your wife about your fears and emotions. Vulnerability is key to a thriving marriage. •For Wives: •Accept your husband where he is. Be patient and supportive as he learns to open up. Listen with empathy, just as you would want him to listen to you. Scriptural Insight: James 1:19 reminds us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” This wisdom is crucial for both husbands and wives as they navigate these challenges together. Conclusion Marriage thrives when it becomes a safe haven for both partners. For men, opening up about fears and struggles is essential to building that safety. For wives, listening with love and without judgment fosters the trust needed for deep emotional connection. Together, let’s create marriages that reflect the safety, support, and love that God desires for us. Subscribe to Operation: Thriving Marriage for more insights, and don’t forget to share this episode with someone who could benefit from it. Let’s thrive together!…

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Ep 75 - New Love Languages 28:40

منذ عام واحد28:40

28:40

Episode 75: New Love Languages Welcome to Operation: Thriving Marriage! In this episode, we’re diving into the concept of love languages—one of the most helpful tools for building strong, loving relationships. While Dr. Gary Chapman’s original five love languages have impacted countless marriages, new research shows they might not cover everyone’s unique ways of expressing and receiving love. We’re exploring the two new love languages introduced by eHarmony—Shared Experiences and Emotional Security—and how they can deepen your connection with your spouse. Dr. Gary Chapman’s The 5 Love Languages revolutionized how couples communicate love. His framework includes: 1.Words of Affirmation 2.Quality Time 3.Receiving Gifts 4.Acts of Service 5.Physical Touch These categories have helped millions of people understand themselves and their partners better. But what happens if you don’t fully resonate with any of these? The Problem: A Missing Connection Many couples feel frustrated when they can’t identify with one of the five love languages. •Some struggle to communicate their love language to their spouse. •Others feel unsure how to express love because their spouse can’t articulate what they need. •Love languages may even feel like a moving target over time. So, what’s the solution? Expanding Love Languages: Two New Additions eHarmony’s research revealed that nearly half of respondents feel the five love languages aren’t enough. They introduced two new categories to reflect modern relationships better: 1. Shared Experiences •What It Means: Shared Experiences go beyond spending quality time. This love language is about creating adventures and memorable moments together. •Signs This Might Be Your Love Language: •You love planning trips, activities, or weekends with your spouse. •You seek out new experiences to share together. •Staying in for date night feels less fulfilling than going out for something exciting. •Your most cherished memories are the adventures you’ve had together. •You’re drawn to adventurous, open-minded people. 2. Emotional Security •What It Means: Emotional Security focuses on feeling safe, seen, and cared for in a relationship. •Signs This Might Be Your Love Language: •You enjoy deep, meaningful conversations. •You often ask questions to understand your spouse’s emotions. •Friends turn to you because they feel emotionally safe. •You value vulnerability and feel connected when your partner shares their feelings. What if You Can’t Identify a Love Language? It’s okay if you don’t fit neatly into one category! The key is to communicate openly about what makes you feel loved. Instead of focusing on labels, ask yourself: •When have I felt especially loved? •What was happening? Where were you, and who were you with? •What were others doing to make you feel loved? Reflecting on these moments—even those involving family and friends—can help you better articulate your needs to your spouse. Love Languages Can Change Recent studies show that love languages aren’t static: •26% of people have changed how they express love in the past year. •25% have changed how they prefer to receive love. As life evolves, so do our needs. Regularly check in with your spouse to see how their love language might have shifted. Conclusion: Love Beyond Labels Love languages are tools, not rules. What matters most is understanding how to best communicate love in your marriage. God designed us to experience and express love—not just in our relationships with Him, but also in our earthly connections. In marriage, this love is most deeply realized. Whether it’s through shared experiences, emotional security, or another love language, spend your life discovering new ways to love your spouse more fully. After all, the greatest joy in marriage is striving to outdo each other in expressing love. Thank you for tuning into Operation: Thriving Marriage! Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review. Let’s keep thriving together!…

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Ep 74 - Combining Accounts; Yes or No? 30:46

منذ عام واحد30:46

30:46

**Episode 74: Combining Accounts; Yes or No? | Operation: Thriving Marriage Podcast** In this episode, Bryon and Jen explore a question often asked during premarital coaching and live events but rarely discussed openly in marriage circles: *Should we combine our bank accounts?* While questions about sex and parenting frequently arise, financial issues don’t come up as often. Why is that? Bryon and Jen delve into why this topic is essential and how it can shape the future health of a marriage. Couples, especially newlyweds, often struggle with the decision of whether or not to merge their finances. Here’s a look at the range of perspectives that can make this choice challenging: - **Combine Everything:** Some people believe full financial unity is crucial and may feel guilt if they don't do so. - **Keep Finances Separate:** Others suggest keeping separate accounts, fearing conflict or financial incompatibility. - **Find a Middle Ground:** Many promote a “his, hers, and ours” approach, or suggest combining accounts with individual spending allowances. These diverse viewpoints reflect the broader reality that financial conflict is a significant cause of stress in marriages. Deciding how to approach finances can have lasting implications for a couple’s relationship. While the Bible doesn’t explicitly address how married couples should manage their bank accounts, it provides guiding principles that speak to money management in marriage. 1. **Don’t Let Money Become an Idol** - *Matthew 6:24*: “No one can serve two masters…You cannot serve God and money.” - This verse challenges us to examine our relationship with money. Does discussing finances create tension or anxiety? Are we willing to sacrifice harmony in our marriage for financial control? Keeping this in check can prevent money from becoming a divisive issue. 2. **Marriage Means Becoming One** - *Genesis 2:24*: “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” - This principle suggests that joining finances can be a powerful act of unity. A 2023 study from the *Journal of Consumer Research* found that newlyweds who combined accounts reported improved relationship satisfaction, while those with separate accounts saw a decline. Combining finances helps couples feel more aligned in their goals and fosters mutual responsibility. **When Separate Accounts Might Make Sense** While combining accounts is generally beneficial, there are situations where keeping finances separate may be wise: - **Second Marriages & Estate Planning:** Jen discusses special considerations for blended families and inheritance planning. - **Past Financial Abuse:** In cases where financial trauma is present, separate accounts can help couples avoid triggering past pain and foster security. One approach to avoid, however, is a strict 50-50 split of expenses and tasks. In marriage, scorekeeping can lead to resentment and undermine the partnership. This isn't a roommate arrangement—it’s a unified journey. Financial disagreements are a frequent cause of tension in marriage, often due to differing views on account management. While there are times when separate accounts might be appropriate, research and experience indicate that couples who combine finances generally enjoy healthier marriages. By approaching finances as a team, couples can cultivate transparency, trust, and a stronger bond. --- Join Bryon and Jen in today’s episode for an in-depth conversation on navigating finances in marriage, setting yourself up for long-term success, and fostering peace in every area of your relationship.…

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Ep 73 - Being Your Spouse’s Peace 24:13

منذ عام واحد24:13

24:13

Episode 73: Being Your Spouse’s Peace - Operation: Thriving Marriage Introduction We recently read an article titled, "Being a Man's Peace," but what does that really mean? Does peace depend on one spouse, or is it something deeper? We’ll break down this idea and see how it aligns—or conflicts—with a biblical understanding of peace. What Does Peace Really Mean? In today's culture, peace is often misunderstood as the absence of conflict or simply making things calm. But in the Bible, peace—"shalom"—is much more than that. It represents wholeness, completeness, and a life rooted in Christ. It’s about knowing who you are in Him and not constantly striving for more than God has given you. Jesus reminds us in John 14:27, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives." This peace isn't something we create for each other. Rather, it comes from God. While you can’t be your spouse’s source of peace, you can create a relationship that fosters peace by being the safest person in their life—someone they can trust without fear or judgment. How to Create Safety in Your Marriage 1. **Communicate Deeply and Honestly:** - Share your goals, dreams, fears, and insecurities with each other. - Listen without judgment or interruption. Don’t listen just to respond—listen to understand. Pay attention to what’s being said, but also to tone, body language, and what might be left unsaid. - This type of communication builds trust, allowing your spouse to feel safe and open with you. 2. **Give Each Other Space:** - Even in the closest marriages, both spouses need space. Needing time alone doesn’t mean your spouse is rejecting you; it’s a necessary part of being human and experiencing shalom. - Allow your spouse to pursue hobbies, interests, and time away from you. This space is crucial for personal growth and emotional well-being. 3. **Create Shared Experiences:** - Balance the personal space with intentional time spent together. Build memories through vacations, date nights, and inside jokes. - Every couple is different, so find the right blend of space and togetherness that works for you both. 4. **Focus on Your Own Shalom:** - If you’re stressed, restless, or disconnected from God, that inner turmoil will affect your marriage. Focus on maintaining your own peace through prayer, Scripture reading, and spiritual disciplines. - A peaceful spirit within you will naturally contribute to a more peaceful, healthy marriage. Conclusion True peace in marriage comes from Jesus, not from each other. While you can’t be your spouse’s ultimate source of peace, you can create a relationship built on safety, trust, and spiritual growth. By focusing on honest communication, giving space when needed, and maintaining your own connection with God, you contribute to an environment where both of you can experience the peace of Christ. --- **Maximize peace in your marriage** by applying these principles. Subscribe to *Operation: Thriving Marriage* for more insights on building a Christ-centered relationship.…

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Ep 72 - Can I Still Be Friends With My Ex? 28:36

منذ عام واحد28:36

28:36

**Podcast Episode Notes for "Operation: Thriving Marriage"** **Episode 72: Can I Still Be Friends With My Ex?** **Introduction** - Is it possible or wise to stay friends with an ex? How do different people feel about maintaining such relationships, especially within the context of a marriage? In today’s episode, we’ll dive into these questions, explore the complexities of relationships with exes, and discuss how they can impact your marriage. **The Problem: Almost Everyone Has an Ex** - Whether it’s someone you dated before marriage or a former spouse after divorce, ex-partners often linger in the background. - Feelings toward exes vary widely—from intense dislike to lingering affection. - These relationships are inherently different from other friendships because they once involved romantic or sexual intimacy. - This unique history with an ex can influence how your spouse perceives that relationship. - If children are involved, the situation can become even more complicated, which we will address later. **The Solution: Can You Stay Friends With an Ex?** - There is nothing in Scripture that forbids maintaining a friendship with an ex. The common Christian marriage vow to “forsake all others” refers to sexual exclusivity, not friendships. Hebrews 13:4 emphasizes the importance of maintaining sexual purity in marriage. - While the Bible does not explicitly prohibit friendships with exes, maintaining a *close* relationship can be unwise for several reasons: - It may make your spouse feel undervalued or less unique. - Spending time with an ex could rekindle old feelings, leading to potential problems. - Ask yourself: Why do you want to stay in touch? Are you looking for something from your ex that should come from your spouse? This is a crucial conversation to have with your partner if that’s the case. **Co-Parenting With an Ex** - Co-parenting presents a unique dynamic. Maintaining a healthy relationship with your ex is essential for your children’s well-being. - However, it’s equally important for all parties—your spouse, children, and ex—to understand that your current spouse takes priority in your life. - If you’re a step-parent, supporting your spouse’s healthy co-parenting relationship with their ex is crucial for the success of your blended family. **Conclusion** - There’s no biblical mandate to cut ties with an ex, but it’s wise to carefully evaluate the nature of that relationship. Maintaining a strong, healthy marriage means putting your spouse second only to God. An ongoing close relationship with an ex could create unnecessary tensions or even harm your marriage, unless co-parenting requires continued interaction. Keywords: Friends with exes, marriage advice, Christian marriage, staying friends with an ex, co-parenting with ex, biblical view on ex-relationships, maintaining marriage, forsaking all others, step-parenting, marriage and exes.…

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Ep 71 - What Does the Bible Really Say About Marital Submission 23:03

منذ عام واحد23:03

23:03

**Introduction** Welcome to another episode of *Operation: Thriving Marriage*. Today, we're diving into one of the most challenging and divisive topics in Christian marriage—submission. Bryon and Jen explore why submission stirs such strong reactions and what it really means from a biblical perspective. **Why Submission is a Major Issue** Bryon asks Jen why she thinks submission is such a contentious topic in Christian marriages. Jen explains that there are two primary reasons for this: 1. **Historical Abuses Against Women**: The concept of submission is often rejected as outdated and harmful because of past abuses that have subjugated women. 2. **Misunderstanding of Biblical Submission**: Many people, including some pastors and church leaders, do not fully understand what biblical submission entails. This misunderstanding can lead to a variety of issues, including: - **Unbiblical Restrictions on Women**: These restrictions can prevent women from fulfilling the roles and callings God has for them. - **Misinterpretation of Scripture**: Misunderstandings can lead to incorrect interpretations and doctrines, which misrepresent Christ and hinder outreach efforts. **The Problems with Misunderstanding Submission** When people dismiss biblical submission as harmful, they often draw false conclusions about Jesus and Christianity, missing the beauty and truth of God's teachings. Misunderstanding biblical submission can result in: 1. **Unbiblical Restrictions**: Preventing women from achieving their full potential in Christ. 2. **Misinterpretations of Scripture**: Leading to flawed doctrines that can distort the gospel. 3. **False Representations of Christ**: Making it harder to attract others to God's kingdom. **Understanding Biblical Submission (Ephesians 5)** To clarify what biblical submission really means, Bryon and Jen turn to one of the most commonly discussed passages: Ephesians 5:15-28. They emphasize that: 1. **Continuity of Thought**: Many Bibles incorrectly separate verse 21 ("submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ") from verse 22 ("Wives, submit to your husbands"), but these verses are part of the same continuous thought. Verse 22 and beyond, often referred to as the household code, provide practical applications of the preceding teachings within the home. 2. **Submission vs. Subservience**: Submission is often overemphasized in verse 22, leading to misunderstandings. Paul’s teachings in this passage do not suggest that women are inferior or that submission equates to subservience. Instead, biblical submission is about mutual respect and love, modeled after the relationship between Christ and the Church. 3. **Submission Does Not Define Roles**: Submission does not dictate that women must be homemakers or refrain from working outside the home. It is also not something that can be forced; Christ doesn’t force the Church to submit, and the Church submits out of love, not fear. 4. **Headship as Responsibility, Not Privilege**: Headship is often misinterpreted as a position of privilege, but Paul presents it as a position of responsibility. Husbands are called to serve their families as Christ served the Church, even to the point of self-sacrifice. **Conclusion** In conclusion, Bryon and Jen encourage listeners not to look for a prescribed way to live out submission and headship in their marriage because the Bible doesn’t offer a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, they urge couples to seek understanding and guidance from Scripture and to work together to apply biblical teachings in their unique circumstances. When submission and headship are understood correctly, they become a way to glorify Christ rather than a burden to bear. If you have questions or need further guidance on this topic, we encourage you to seek godly counsel from your local church community. Remember, living out biblical principles in your marriage isn’t about following cultural norms; it’s about following Christ. Thank you for listening to *Operation: Thriving Marriage*. Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode, and leave us a review. See you next time!…

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Ep 70 - Sex After Kids 14:29

منذ عام واحد14:29

14:29

**Episode 70: Sex After Kids** In this episode of *Operation: Thriving Marriage*, we tackle the challenge of keeping intimacy alive after having children. Sex is essential for a strong marriage, fostering connection, happiness, and intimacy. However, once kids enter the picture, maintaining a healthy sex life can feel nearly impossible. Privacy disappears, interruptions are constant, and bedtime routines become a battle. Yet, a thriving sex life is crucial for a thriving marriage, and we’re here to help. Tune in as we share practical strategies to protect your intimacy. Learn how to plan sex dates, enforce bedtime rules, and prioritize your relationship, even in the midst of parenting. Don’t let kids be the reason your connection suffers—discover how to keep the romance alive and ensure a strong, lasting marriage.…

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Ep 69 - I Feel More Like a Roommate than a Spouse 21:04

منذ عام واحد21:04

21:04

In this episode of the Operation: Thriving Marriage Podcast we answer another listener question. In this episode Deanna asked how to deal with the dreaded roommate phase. She says she feels more a roommate than a wife. This is a difficult but common experience for couples especially after 3 - 5 years of marriage. It’s uncomfortable in the moment, but as you build your communication skills you will find new ways to connect and build intimacy that will make your marriage stronger than it was before. This episode provides insight and advice on how to do exactly that.…

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Ep 68 - Friends, Finances, and Your Marriage 25:15

منذ عام واحد25:15

25:15

In Episode 69 of Operation: Thriving Marriage, we focus on how friendships impact the financial health of a marriage. Jen shares personal stories about how her friends influence her relationship and finances, reflecting Jimmy Evans' insight from XO Marriage that our friends shape our future. We delve into Biblical teachings that highlight the importance of healthy, God-designed relationships, emphasizing that financial decisions are crucial within these dynamics. We address the challenge of friends who negatively affect our finances, especially in today’s social media-driven world. Friends often showcase their extravagant lifestyles online, leading to feelings of inadequacy and financial strain. We discuss the pressure to match their spending on dinners, activities, and vacations, which can cause tension and stress in marriages. To navigate these challenges, we offer practical solutions. Your financial decisions as a couple should reflect your values, goals, and the example you wish to set. We emphasize the importance of contentment and aligning financial goals with Scripture. Learn to celebrate your friends' successes without falling into discontentment and make wise choices about the people who influence your financial habits. In conclusion, as Christians, we are called to be different through how we live and manage our finances. Let your financial decisions glorify God and reflect His kingdom. Tune in for insightful discussions on managing friendships and finances in your marriage. **Keywords: Financial Health in Marriage, Marriage and Finances, Social Media Influence, Biblical Financial Guidance, Christian Financial Management, Contentment in Marriage, Marriage Advice Podcast**…

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Ep 67 - Through the Eyes of a Child 22:54

منذ عام واحد22:54

22:54

In this enlightening episode of the Operation: Thriving Marriage podcast, we turn the spotlight on our first guests - our kids! Join us as we dive into the world of marriage from a child's perspective, exploring their candid thoughts, heartfelt observations, and innocent wisdom about what it takes to build a thriving marriage. Our kids share their views on love, partnership, and what they've learned from watching us navigate the ups and downs of married life. This heartwarming and insightful episode offers a refreshing look at marriage through the eyes of the next generation. Whether you're a…

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Ep 66 - Spicing Things Up 19:22

منذ عام واحد19:22

19:22

In this episode of the Operation: Thriving Marriage Podcast, we answer a listener question. Megen asked “How to spice things up in marriage without cheating.” Marriages all go through phase in sex and intimacy. There are times when sex is less frequent than one or both of you desire. There are also times when the sex is not as fulfilling as one or both of you would like it to be. These are normal struggles in marriage. Cheating will not solve those problems. Cheating can only lead to hurt and pain in a marriage. In this episode we talk about different ways to spice up the sex in your marriage. One of the most important things is to discuss sex together and communicate what you want and need. Other ideas include ways of being more sexy towards each other and planning a sex date. Please keep the questions coming. We love to hear from you. You can contact us at OperationThrivingMarriage.com. We hope you enjoy this episode and come up with new ways to spice things up in your own marriage.…

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Ep 65 - Flood of Anger 19:43

منذ عام واحد19:43

19:43

Welcome to Operation: Thriving Marriage. In today's episode, we address a common marital issue—anger. Often, we blame our spouse for making us angry, creating a cycle of blame and frustration. But here's the truth: it's not our spouse who controls our emotions; it's us. We dive into how to break this harmful cycle by taking responsibility for our feelings. Understand that your emotions are shaped by your personality, genetics, and past experiences, not by your spouse's actions. Recognize that incidents, not people, incite anger. Learn practical steps to manage your anger: pause, pray, or take a walk to calm down. Communicate with your spouse without blaming them. Instead of saying, "You make me angry," say, "When this happens, I feel..." Join us as we explore these insights and offer tools to transform how you handle anger, fostering a loving and peaceful marriage. Tune in to Operation: Thriving Marriage and start building a stronger relationship today!…

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The So What from BCG

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Ep 54 - Praying as a Couple