36 Ways to Make Your Marriage Solid part3

36 Ways to Make Your Marriage Solid part3

By: Kristen Welch

I’ve been married for 6,408 days, and I’ve learned a few things in that time. A good marriage doesn’t just happen. It requires consistent hard work, forgiveness, and the ability to be quiet. And when in doubt, remember that sex always helps! 36 Ways to Make Your Marriage Solid part3 36 Ways to Make Your Marriage Solid part3

Just like any fire, the intensity of married love is prone to die down. It never hurts to stoke the embers and stir things up a bit. Journalist and author Mignon McLaughlin once said, “A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.” I completely agree. But I’m also thankful for those flailing moments in-between the falling.

Try these 36 ways to make your marriage solid

1. Don’t nag each other. The Bible compares nagging to dripping water: constant, irritating, and wasteful. Nothing good comes from it. Instead, make a list of what needs to be done, be a part of completing it, or pray about the issue.
2. Compliment each other. Tell him when he looks good. Thank her for a good meal. Be nice to each other. Kindness goes a long way! 36 Ways to Make Your Marriage Solid part3
3. Touch your spouse several times throughout the day.
4. Unplug together. Set a day when everything is turned off. Take a break from phones, technology, TV, and so forth. 36 Ways to Make Your Marriage Solid part3
5. Choose not to be annoyed by an irritating behavior or disappointment. He might never pick up his dirty clothes. She may never organize the dishwasher the way you like it. Some things are worth letting go. 36 Ways to Make Your Marriage Solid part3
6. Share a secret your spouse doesn’t know about you. Does he know you had a perm-gone-bad in eighth grade? Share some ancient history. You might be surprised at what you discover about your spouse. 36 Ways to Make Your Marriage Solid part3
7. Sit on the same side of a booth at a restaurant. I love it when Terrell slides into the booth beside me. This small act sends a big message to my heart and to those around us.
8. Lie in bed together and stare into each other eyes without talking. This quiet, intimate act might give you a lot to talk about! 36 Ways to Make Your Marriage Solid part3
9. Learn or do something new together. Take an art class or cooking lessons or go dancing. Eat dinner on the trampoline. Shake up the norm and do something different.
10. Know when to talk and when to hush. Most arguments are from saying too much. When you hold your tongue and listen, you get much more accomplished. This isn’t an easy task, but asking God for self-control is a good place to start.
11. Bring your wife a small gift (even when she says not to). Small thoughtful presents like her favorite drink, flowers, a handwritten note, or chocolate can be just what she needs.
12. Remember that your spouse rocks, even when he or she doesn’t. You love your spouse and are committed, but in the heat of the moment, it’s easy to react. Keep the small things small and remember why you love your mate!