About This Love Online

Insights from Our Journey

What keeps us grounded during difficult times in our marriage? When we face challenges or don’t feel the lovey-dovey vibes, what prevents us from walking away? What gives us hope and keeps us together?

One thing that keeps me here with my wife is God. I know it sounds cliché, but it’s true. Growing up, my mother instilled in my siblings and I the importance of endurance. She wouldn’t let us quit anything mid-season, teaching us to see things through to the end. This lesson has stayed with me and has become crucial in my marriage. I made a commitment to God, and even though I’ve had thoughts of walking away, I believe in enduring and working through our issues.

When Charel and I covered this topic in episode 19, she mentions how she has had moments too, where she thought about throwing in the towel. But seeking wise counsel from older, more mature couples reminds us that our feelings can be fleeting and that our commitment to each other and to God is what truly matters.

It took me three years to realize that our emotions can betray us. They can make us want to leave over small things, but it’s important to remember that how we feel in a moment isn’t always reality. It’s about pushing through those emotions and staying committed.

One thing I’ve focused on is communicating even when it’s difficult. Avoiding tough conversations doesn’t make problems go away. It’s about facing them head-on and working through them together. Marriage is about growing and learning from each other, even when it’s hard.

Difficult times aren’t necessarily bad when they’re viewed as opportunities to learn and grow. It’s sad to see two people who lack the ability to articulate their emotions without the issue escalating out of control. If we let it, marriage can teach us how to handle our spouse better and to grow from our mistakes.

Engage With Us

We’d love to hear from you! How do you and your partner practice endurance in your relationship during challenging times? Can you share a moment when you had to push through a difficult period in your marriage or relationship? What helped you stay committed? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Your insights could be the encouragement someone else needs. Let’s continue this journey together, learning and growing as a community of love and faith.