In today's episode, Jon discusses some of the memories from his past that could have the ability to do destruction in his life.  He's done a few things to deter this from happening.

If you're like most, you already know that relationships are tough and it takes a bit of know-how to become successful in your relationship.  That's why it's very important that you get on the same page with each other.

Jon and Jess teach the biblical way to do this very strategy, God's way

With all the different opinions out there regarding the honeymoon, it's no wonder that more couples are opting to stay in a non-committed relationship.  But the reality is quite the opposite according to the Word of God.  

For those that want a better relationship, communication is a focal point that needs attention.

Here are 3 Communication Tips To Enrich Your Relationship

Show notes

Listen To Understand

I've heard so many people, now that we are in the holidays interrupt and speak what THEY wanted to get across instead of just listening to get understanding.

We have to remember that when we are communicating its a two-way street and if you're not allowing the other person to do his/her fair share of talking or listening, then you're not communicating. Instead, this is a type of communication that goes against every fiber of great communication. In the IT world, we would call that a DDoS attack. Translated this stands for Denial of service attack or the ping of death.

The point of this type of communication is to overwhelm and cause harm to the listening party.

When you allow the other party to respond and you're listening to understand, you make them feel worthy, appreciated and more willing to talk to you again in the same manner.

In the podcast, we mention Episode #2; where we talk about building each other up.

Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Your Anger

There's a bible verse that backs this one up.

²⁵ Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. ²⁶ “In your anger do not sin”^[a]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, ²⁷ and do not give the devil a foothold.

Ephesians 4:25-27

So why would we want to avoid anger before we go to sleep?

One train of thought is that when we are sleeping, our subconscious mind is not sleeping. In fact, our subconscious mind never sleeps.

if we are to be vigilant about improving our lives and relationships, we need to be thinking on things that are good.

⁸ Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Phillipians 4:8

Talk To Each Other During The Day

Many times we get wrapped up in our day and forget that we have a partner working hard as well to bring in the finances we need to live and enjoy our lives.

What would it mean to your spouse if you were to just send a simple text to them?

Do you ever think to call on a break or at lunchtime?

Now, these are just a couple of simple little things that can really turn around a day for your spouse. Use your imagination and be creative on how you can improve your partner's day.

If you are looking for solid strategies that will get your relationship to the next level, we encourage you to download our free ebook:

Adversity can make or break a couple – if they let it.

You’ve heard stories and seen movies about couples that go through adversity like caring for a sick family member over a long period of time or financial struggles and other seemingly insurmountable odds. The struggle was too much and they split up.

We’ve also heard opposite stories of couples banding together and becoming stronger as they weather the storm together.

What is the difference? What is their secret?

• Relationship with God – When we rely on God, we don’t have to shoulder the burden alone and feel the intense weight of it. It is important that we look to the One greater than ourselves.
• Look outward – When we go through struggle it’s tempting to look inward and think about how difficult times are and what we don’t have. In those times, we need to remember to look outward and see that others are going through a hard time, too. God will often ask us to help someone else when we are going through something difficult because he knows there is healing in it for us.
• Treat each other with kindness – Pain and discomfort often bring out the worst in our attitudes. It’s during times like this that we need to take a step back and have more patience with our loved ones, particularly or partners. It can be tempting to lash out with our words in a space that feels safe, but we need to remember that our significant other is most likely hurting as well and treat them with patience and kindness.
• Communication – We need to talk with our partners regularly to maintain an understanding of what we are feeling and what we need. Reach out and ask for help when necessary. Communication helps squelch added struggles that arise from lack of talking to each other.
• Equally yoked – Shoulder the burdens of the struggle together. Better yet, throw the burden on God’s shoulders and follow him together with your partner. God has the perfect plan for your life.

What are some strategies you have used that have helped you and your partner stick together during a struggle? Please leave a note in the comments below. Your message could help another couple in need.

Show Notes

Take time out to schedule vacations. It doesn't matter how short in the beginning. It's a win to get away but to get at least a days drive away is an even bigger win.

Start with weekend short trips to get out of the house and detox from the hustle of the day/week.

You need to have downtime for your own sanity. Getting downtime together is the best downtime. So set your goals for alone time with your mate.

Structure your priorities to get your relaxation time when you need it. That means lining up sitters for pets and children. Ask Family if available but do not expect them to watch your children and/or pets.

Plan on spending money on supervision and then whatever you plan on for vacation expenses.

Something we did not cover in this episode is should you be putting your kids first when it comes to your downtime and relaxation? Let us know in the comments what your take is on this subject.

Today we are delving into how to set yourself up for peace to rule in your household.  It's a key element to becoming a power couple in today's world.  Join us for todays episode #3.  United together in Peace.

Does God have control over all the details?

There are 2 trains of thought that we hear all the time about what God does for us. Most of the time if it fits into our way of doing things that is the story we believe.

So in todays podcast, we decided to talk about these 2 sides of the story and how only one of them makes the most sense.

The story that says God isn't in control of the details

Just like the title says above, we hear all the time that God isn't in control of our destiny. The defense that is offered is that God created us with free will.

That's true to a point.

But when you know the character of God, you also know that that very free will has to do with our decisions to walk away from what God has done for us already - making things much more difficult to live a prosperous life as stated in the new testament by Jesus.

The scripture to back up the story of God having control over your destiny.

Now if you're looking to have a relationship that gives glory to God, you know that there are at least one verse in the bible that will support God having control over the relationships you have.

Jeremiah 29:11 says...

This very verse states that He already knows the plans He has for you. Meaning he loves you so much that He's taken a vested interest in your future.

So, does he have control over the details in your life?

I'd say an emphatic, YES!

Show Notes

Talking about being equally yoked in relationship means so much.

What if God had someone else in mind for me but I'm already married?