Strengthen Your Marriage Sample

Communicate With Each Other

You have the power to bring life or death to your marriage from the words you speak. Proverbs 18:21 tells us that the power of life and death are in the tongue and that applies to every area of your life, including your marriage! Whether you’re talking to your spouse, about your spouse, or about your marriage, what you say is either breathing life or bringing death to it.

Everything you say about your spouse or your marriage should be life-giving, but speaking directly to each other is where it matters the most. If you’re wondering how to “speak life” into your spouse, look to 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.” We find this easier to do with friends, colleagues, or someone we look up to, but when it’s the person whose flaws we see on a daily basis, it takes extra intentionality to offer grace, forgiveness, and words of kindness. Wholesome words of encouragement is what will build up your spouse and your marriage.

On the other hand, as much as it is important to be careful about what you say, it’s even more important to not say anything at all and just listen. When two become one, it’s also the coming together of two languages. A man not only leaves his father and mother but also their communication styles and their familiarity with each other. What seems obvious to you, because of the family you grew up with who might understand what you mean by what you say, might not seem as obvious to your spouse, who grew up in a different environment. Ask questions, listen, and may the words you exchange bring life to your marriage.

Is there something you say that your spouse doesn’t seem to respond to in the way you would like? Try sharing what you’re thinking and what you mean, and then ask for their feedback. When they say something that doesn’t sit well with you, try asking what they mean or why they said that before you respond.