When Your Marriage Isn't What You Thought It Would BeSýnishorn

Day 3: Release but Respect

Marriage can throw some heavy stuff our way, and having someone to lean on can make all the difference. I bet you feel the same way – that need for a confidant, someone who gets it, who you can vent to without judgment. We all need our people, whether it's a best friend, a family member, or someone else who's got our back.

Who's your go-to for your frustrations? Have you got someone wise in your corner? Maybe someone who's walked the marriage path—ever thought about giving counseling a shot? And, who's praying for you?

Having a supportive community is like having a lifeline during tough times, but let's also remember what God says about seeking wise counsel. As you navigate through the twists and turns, be mindful of who you confide in when it comes to your marriage.

When deciding to confide in someone, consider these thoughts. Is this person going to give wisdom, and are they trustworthy enough to keep your private matters private? Are you seeking genuine help, or is it veering into gossip territory? Do you feel better or worse after spilling your heart out to them?

What about your family? Well, they are here for us no matter what and have been our backbone in so many situations. But sometimes, they struggle to move forward even after you've patched things up with your spouse. Of course, in emergencies, they're the cavalry, but oversharing might paint your spouse in ways you didn't intend. Keep this in mind when you go to them for support. Ask God to give you wisdom on what to divulge and what are taboo areas.

Consider this: counseling. It's a safe space where you can pour out your feelings, get some advice, and find solutions. It's about helping your marriage, not unintentionally hurting it. Let's face it; God's big on us honoring our marriages and spouses.

Before you pour out your soul to someone, ask yourself this: "Am I giving my marriage a boost or toss into decline? Am I opening up for comfort or stirring up a gossip storm?"

Also, don't forget the power of prayer. A trusted prayer partner can work wonders. As you seek guidance, make sure they're not just offering a listening ear but also sending prayers up for you and your marriage. I love submitting prayers to our church prayer list. They have a neat app that you can use to submit prayers. There's something about knowing multiple people are praying for you. It truly gives you hope and makes you feel as if someone is carrying the weight with you.

Remember, you're not alone in this journey. We're all figuring it out together.

Reflection:

Who do you currently go to about your frustrations? Do you have someone wise? Are they married? Could you potentially consider counseling? Who can pray for your marriage?