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| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Ready to Wed Greg Smalley, Erin Smalley, 2015-04-16 Are You Planning a Wedding or Preparing for a Marriage? Like most engaged couples, you’re researching venues, trying on dresses and picking out tuxedos or suits, tasting sample dishes, dreaming of honeymoon destinations, and doing everything to ensure your wedding day is the event of a lifetime. But as more seasoned couples will tell you, there’s more to a marriage than a wedding. A lot more. How do you build a marriage that you’ve dreamed of? Dr. Greg Smalley, vice president of marriage at Focus on the Family, and his wife, Erin, along with 14 marriage experts, serve as your marriage guides as you prepare for life beyond the wedding day. From how to handle those everyday conflicts to how to better connect on a spiritual level, they’ll show you how to get ready for a lifetime of commitment. When the flowers have faded and the last morsel of cake has been eaten, you’ll stand with your new spouse, ready to face life together. Equip yourself for a marriage that lasts by learning: How to leave your parents (while still honoring them) and cleave to your spouse Why spiritual intimacy is key to a lasting relationship Why the language of love is communication (and how to build it) How to manage conflict in a healthy, God-honoring way Why sexual intimacy in your marriage will be the gift that keeps on giving Invest in a marriage that will last for decades. Are you ready? |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Reconnected Greg Smalley, Erin Smalley, 2020-04-21 Are You Married to Your Roommate . . . or Your Lover? Whether you’ve been married for six years or six decades, you may wake up one day to discover that the person sleeping next to you has become a stranger. Between work, kids, financial woes, and the busyness of everyday living, your marriage may feel like it’s on life support. You and your spouse love each other, but you’re both barely hanging on. How do you find your way back? How do you reconnect with your spouse and capture all that marriage is intended to be? Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley understand. Despite being hailed as marriage experts, they found themselves living more like roommates than lovers. Through intentional work, they fought their way back, and you can too. In Reconnected, they’ll walk alongside you and your spouse as you learn to reconnect by: Sharing life-giving communicationDreaming together about your futureRekindling romance and passionEmbracing your individuality while coming together as a coupleTransforming your life from one of busyness to one of connection Take your marriage from surviving to thriving. Reconnect with your first love. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Anatomy of an Affair Dave Carder, 2017-09-05 When it comes to adultery, never say, “It won’t happen to me.” Just when you think your marriage is safe from adultery is when you may be the most vulnerable. With eye-opening stories, clinical insights, and up-to-date data, Dave Carder reveals what adulterers learned the hard way—and what they want the rest of us to know to save us the pain. Dave Carder, counselor and author of the bestselling Torn Asunder (100,000 in print), is a sought-after expert on issues of adultery. Here he helps you make your marriage adultery-proof by showing you: How attractions can lead to affairs Ways you may be vulnerable to affairs The common ingredients of adultery How to restore intimacy to your marriage How to make wise, protective decisions Marriage is too sacred to be taken casually. Affairs are a very real threat, and they can destroy lives and families. For this reason, Anatomy of an Affair should be on every church leader’s and marriage counselor’s required reading list, and in the home of every married couple. Includes charts and assessments to understand and guard against affairs. This book is the revised edition of Close Calls (2008) |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: I Choose You Today Deb DeArmond, 2015-01-06 Married for nearly 38 years, author Deborah DeArmond and her husband have made the spoken declaration, “I choose you today” a regular part of their communication. It’s when we least feel like saying it that we need to remind ourselves that love is a choice, not a feeling. I Choose You Today features 31 scriptural principles that support marriage and help couples develop healthy biblically based behavior. Built on an introductory anecdotal story, each chapter has an inspirational takeaway of not only what to do, but how to begin applying the principles immediately. Thought provoking questions create talking points for couples to explore their own choices and experiences in each area serve to generate open dialogue of discovery. I Choose You Today is not a book of shoulds, but one of clearly identified choices that each individual can make to grow their marriage and align it with the word of God. Every saying ends with a conventional wisdom quote. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: The Emotionally Healthy Marriage Dr. David Stoop, Dr. Jan Stoop, 2020-05-19 When it comes to a successful, satisfying marriage, it's not about how many workshops you've attended, how many counseling sessions you've experienced together, or which conflict resolution tools you've been taught. What it really all comes down to is emotions--understanding your own and your partner's, and then walking hand in hand through those inevitable situations where emotions run high. In The Emotionally Healthy Marriage, Drs. David and Jan Stoop take you and your spouse through a 5-step process of developing the emotional intelligence you need to stay strong and stay together. With personal inventories that help you discover where you are doing well and where you need improvement, as well as practical action steps you can take now to implement what you've learned, this book is perfect for couples, counselors, and pastors. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Bless Your Husband Angela Mills, 2018-10-16 Sometimes, choosing to love your husband is hard. Whether you've been married one year or 31 years, chances are he's done things that have frustrated you, angered you, hurt you, or flabbergasted you. But after arguing over how to load the dishwasher yet again, you might be wondering how you can show him that you really do love him. In as little as 15 minutes a day, you can do something meaningful for your husband and grow in your faith. From washing his car to writing a positive post about him on social media to watching his favorite movie with him, these pages are full of creative, simple, and interactive ideas on how to bless your husband. You'll discover daily Scripture verses, inspirational readings, and journaling prompts to encourage you as well! |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Kingdom Marriage Tony Evans, 2016-01-01 What happens when a kingdom man marries a kingdom woman? Kingdom Marriage: Connecting God's Purpose with Your Pleasure helps couples grow together as a kingdom couple to fulfill God's design and purpose for their marriage. Through practical insights and powerful stories, Dr. Tony Evans inspires and instructs so couples will discover the hope, challenge, and guidance God's Word provides for their journey together. You can reflect the glory of God and the unity of the Trinity through your shared purpose, honor, and love as a true kingdom couple. --Tony Evans Kingdom Marriage shows couples that the key to influencing our society and world with lasting impact is found in solidifying biblical marriage in the way God intended. It starts with both wife and husband reflecting God and His image and modeling that reflection within the roles and responsibilities of their union. This is based on a correct understanding of God's kingdom and their responsibilities in it. Kingdom Marriage and the Kingdom Marriage devotional and video resources are part of an entire line of Kingdom products by Tony Evans, including Kingdom Man, Kingdom Woman, Raising Kingdom Kids, and the Kingdom Quest strategy guides for kids and teens. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Money Problems, Marriage Solutions Chuck Bentley, Ann Bentley, 2017-09-05 It’s not just about the money... Arguments about money are by far the top predictor of divorce, says Sonya Britt, a professor at Kansas State University. “It's not children, sex, in-laws, or anything else. It's money—for both men and women. Satan seeks every means possible to destroy marriages, and creating conflict around finances is one of his favorite tactics. But there is more to money problems than not sticking to the budget. Chuck and Ann Bentley reveal the underlying issues of financial and relational discord—and show how it robs couples of joy, intimacy, and marital satisfaction. Money Problems, Marriage Solutions presents seven keys to peace in marriage and helps couples unite and conquer to resolve financial issues together. Through real-life stories, a solid foundation from Scripture, and practical steps for application, this book gives a plan for getting back on the same team. Here is a clear and lasting way forward for couples struggling with money problems. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: If I Had a Parenting Do-Over Jonathan McKee, 2017-02-01 Ever wish parenting came with a do-over button? “Here’s where I messed up. . . Whenever I say those words during my parenting workshops, you can hear a pin drop. Parents are on the edges of their seats. “And here’s what I’d do differently next time. . . That’s when every pen in the room begins writing furiously. Let’s face it. Hindsight is 20/20. If you ever find yourself saying I wish I had a do-over. . . You're not alone! Join author and youth culture expert, Jonathan McKee, as he shares from his own personal parenting experiences of raising three kids, while making purposeful, effective tweaks along the way. Delivered with a refreshing blend of humor and vulnerability, the author's candid style and real-world application will equip you with solid, helpful practices you can actually use in your own home. With chapters like Let It Go, Press Pause, and Tip the Scales, McKee provides the honest answers you're seeking as you parent your kids. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Thriving in Love and Money Shaunti Feldhahn, Jeff Feldhahn, 2020-03-03 Over 90 percent of couples experience some level of tension around money. In fact, money issues are the number one stressor in relationships. So many books try to fix the surface problems, such as how to budget and what to prioritize when it comes to finances, but the issues go much deeper than just a simple spreadsheet. How do men and women view money differently? What do most couples fight about? How can they get on the same page? What questions should men/women ask their significant others before marriage? There are emotional and spiritual components to finances that most couples ignore. How can you agree on a budget if you disagree with each other on the basic purpose of money? Thriving in Love and Money is based on original research Shaunti and Jeff Feldhahn have conducted to get to the heart of these issues. And just as they did with their bestselling books For Women Only and For Men Only, they will use this research to provide the answers and insights you need to break the tension and provide the unity you're looking for. Let this book deepen your understanding of each other, leading to clear communication, peace as a couple, and better financial decision-making. Also available: video curriculum and workbook. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Desperate Forgiveness Al Robertson, Lisa Robertson, 2019-06-04 Duck Dynasty stars Al and Lisa Robertson were desperate for their love to survive—and with God’s help, they realized the only answer to marital and family betrayal is all-consuming, life-altering, desperate forgiveness. In their new book, they share this message with anyone who wants to exchange broken relationships for healing. The Robertsons know what they’re talking about: They have lived through the pain of adultery and lack of communication in their marriage. And thanks to the healing they’ve experienced, they now help other couples find their own path to forgiveness. This former pastor of 22 years and his wife want you to arrive at a place where you, too, can give and receive forgiveness and find the beauty of reconciliation. By sharing true stories from friends and family, as well as biblical examples, Desperate Forgiveness provides the support you’ll need on the hard road to forgiveness. You’ll learn about the necessity and power of humility; the freedom found in letting go of bitterness; and the restoration and reclamation on the other side of desperation. Al and Lisa Robertson are living proof that choosing and living out forgiveness is worth the effort. Let Desperate Forgiveness show you the way to a changed life and revitalized marriage. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: SMART Love Dr. David Stoop, Dr. Jan Stoop, 2017-02-14 The principles of emotional intelligence have long been applied to the business world with remarkable results. But what would happen if they were applied to that most important of relationships--marriage? SMART Love is a system for understanding emotions--both your own and your spouse's--managing those emotions, and walking hand in hand through those situations when emotions run high. Drs. David and Jan Stoop break the book into five sections: - Self-awareness of your emotions - Managing your emotions - Accountability to yourself, your spouse, and others - Reading the other person's emotions - Together in the land of emotions A SMART Love inventory helps readers see where they are strong and where they need improvement, and each section includes action steps couples can take to implement what they've learned. Perfect for couples' counseling, small groups, and anyone who wants to connect with their spouse more deeply. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: The Wholehearted Wife Erin Smalley, Greg Smalley, Gary Smalley, 2014-06-20 Although it takes two to have a great marriage, an important truth for any marriage partner to realize is that he or she can really change no one other than him or herself. Nevertheless, changes in just one person can have an amazing impact on a marriage relationship! Instead of focusing on “How do I have a better marriage?” this book embraces that truth, and helps women ponder the question, “How can I be the best wife I can be?” It provides every woman with skills, information, and encouragement to make a positive difference to this and future generations, by wholeheartedly investing in her marriage and her relationship with her husband today. The Wholehearted Wife is written by Erin and Greg Smalley, along with Gary Smalley, the creator and presenter of Keys to a Loving Relationship, one of the best-selling video series of all time. Recognizing that most if not all married women have either experienced a time when her marriage felt lifeless—or sat with another female friend or family member who was experiencing that situation—this book is also a wonderful resource for those times. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: 7 Traits of Effective Parenting Daniel P. Huerta, 2020-08-18 What does it look like to parent well in today’s world? In today’s complex world, parenting is a tough job regardless of whether your child is a baby or a teenager. Beyond the difficulties of navigating the changing world we live in, there are also the daily frictions of imperfect people sharing a home together. In 7 Traits of Effective Parenting, Daniel P. Huerta offers hope and parenting guidance for you to become a thriving parent. Based on extensive research, Huerta presents a collection of seven powerful character traits designed to help parents grow and thrive as they take on the task of nurturing and raising kids. Parents will be encouraged to navigate family life with grace and love so that their kids ultimately see God’s transformative power, love, and influence. In this book, parents will learn the necessity of adaptabilitythe foundational nature of respectthe importance of intentionalitywhy parenting requires steadfast love and connectionto set healthy boundarieshow to keep imperfections from hurting your relationship with your kids |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: The Marriage Knot Ron Zappia, Jody Zappia, 2019-01-01 What exactly does it take to make marriage strong? Ron and Jody Zappia were on the brink of divorce. It was their first year of marriage and already things were falling apart. They desperately searched for anything that would help. And then, suddenly, everything changed. Today, the Zappias lead The Knot Marriage Conference where they present seven transformative principles that saved their marriage. The Marriage Knot teaches these same principles to new audiences. Full of wisdom, humor, and refreshing transparency, The Marriage Knot unpacks the choices successful couples make. Marriage, like a knot, has to be kept tight. Left to itself, it loosens over time and can completely unravel. This highly practical book focuses on the everyday decisions you can make to rejuvenate and restore your marriage. Delving into topics like communication, sex, conflict resolution, and more, it offers the tools you need for life-long marriage health. Whether you’re engaged, newlyweds, or seasoned marriage veterans, this book will help make your marriage strong, no matter what pressures attempt to unravel it. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: The Five Love Languages Gary Chapman, 2009-12-17 Marriage should be based on love, right? But does it seem as though you and your spouse are speaking two different languages? #1 New York Times bestselling author Dr. Gary Chapman guides couples in identifying, understanding, and speaking their spouse's primary love language-quality time, words of affirmation, gifts, acts of service, or physical touch. By learning the five love languages, you and your spouse will discover your unique love languages and learn practical steps in truly loving each other. Chapters are categorized by love language for easy reference, and each one ends with simple steps to express a specific language to your spouse and guide your marriage in the right direction. A newly designed love languages assessment will help you understand and strengthen your relationship. You can build a lasting, loving marriage together. Gary Chapman hosts a nationally syndicated daily radio program called A Love Language Minute that can be heard on more than 150 radio stations as well as the weekly syndicated program Building Relationships with Gary Chapman, which can both be heard on fivelovelanguages.com. The Five Love Languages is a consistent New York Times bestseller - with over 5 million copies sold and translated into 38 languages. This book is a sales phenomenon, with each year outselling the prior for 16 years running! |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: A Wife’s Secret to Happiness Jen Weaver, 2017-03-14 The path to marital happiness is different than you think. When our plans for marriage improvement begin with “If my husband would . . .” or “If, as a couple, we could . . .” we’re missing the secret. Despite her man’s flaws and failures, the Lord plans to bless a wife’s marriage through her husband. A Wife’s Secret to Happiness shares eleven powerful, practical blessings that God wants to pour into your lap like sweet spiritual confetti, and the wifestyle habits that will attract or reject this divine provision. No matter your title—from stay-at-home mom to business executive to ministry leader—you can celebrate God’s role for you as a wife and learn how to •Embrace vibrant marital roles without getting stuck in gender ruts •Reduce stress and busyness by building intimacy and strength •Boost love, support, and encouragement in your communication •Deepen your spousal connection so you won’t feel alone •Restore dreams for your life with your spouse Through thoughtful exploration of biblical promises, humorous hope-filled stories, and compelling testimonies, Jen shares how God empowers her life as a submissive millennial wife, and inspires readers to experience the same freedom. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: From This Day Forward Craig Groeschel, Amy Groeschel, 2014-10-28 A must-read for pre-married as well as long-married couples, Craig and Amy Groeschel explore the time-tested wisdom able to guide you and your spouse into the marriage you've always wanted. Everyone dreams of a fairytale marriage--the perfect spouse, the perfect home, the perfect family. But reality tells us that these expectations don't hold up very long. Many studies indicate that close to fifty percent of marriages don't make it. With those odds, is it even possible to have a good marriage--let alone a great one? New York Times bestselling author and pastor Craig Groeschel insists you can . . . but not if you approach it like everyone else does. Perfect for single adults, engaged couples, and married couples alike, Craig and his wife, Amy, show you how to conquer the odds and find the joy, passion, and strength of a marriage built by God. Craig and Amy open their hearts, share personal experiences, and walk you through five powerful commitments you can make to fail-proof your marriage: Seek God Fight fair Have fun Stay pure Never give up If you earnestly choose to do all five of these things, you will discover a richer, deeper, more authentic marriage. Starting right now--from this day forward. Spanish edition also available, as well as a video study and study guide. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Love in Every Season Debra Fileta, 2020-01-14 An Invitation to Love Well Through the Four Seasons Every relationship goes through four life-changing seasons that play a pivotal role in taking your relationship to the next level. But depending on how you navigate each season, your relationship will either strengthen and grow, or it will slowly begin to fade. Maybe your relationship is in the first blooms of spring, when friendship takes root and attraction blossoms. Maybe you’re in the season of summer, and things are starting to heat up—spiritually, emotionally, and physically. Maybe you’re deep in fall, and your true colors are starting to shine through. Or maybe you’re in winter, when the passion cools down and it would be all too easy to let the relationship freeze over. Whether you’re single, dating, engaged or married, join author, counselor, and relationship expert Debra Fileta, creator of TrueLoveDates.com, as she takes you on an eye-opening psychological and spiritual journey through the four seasons of every healthy relationship. You’ll learn to… Recognize each season as it comes and navigate it with intention, focus, and practical steps. Avoid the pitfalls of each stage by preparing for the hard moments and seeing them as opportunities to grow and connect. Celebrate not just the magical moments of each season, but the day-to-day choices that pave the way for a lasting relationship. No matter what your relationship status, you’re invited on a journey to strengthen and grow your love in every season. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: The Kindness Challenge Shaunti Feldhahn, 2016-12-20 Have we ever needed kindness more? Learn which ways of acting, speaking, and thinking will improve your relationships and make the greatest difference for your life. “This book has the potential to change the emotional climate of our culture.”—Gary Chapman, New York Times bestselling author of The Five Love Languages Think of your toughest relationship. Think of a relationship that is good but could be great. Think of a group of people that drives you nuts. You want to show more kindness and generosity, but sometimes you’re just tired, stretched, and frustrated. Besides, would small actions make that big a difference? Yes! After years of extensive research, Shaunti Feldhahn has concluded that kindness is a superpower. It can change any relationship, make your life easier and better, and transform our culture. But how does it work? And how can you show kindness when you don’t feel like it? In The Kindness Challenge, Shaunti explores . . . • Three simple acts that make all the difference in any relationship (with a spouse, child, co-worker, brother-in-law . . .) • Whether kindness is ever the wrong approach • The seven ways you may be unkind and never realize it • Eight types of kindness—and which might be the best fit for you • Ten sneaky obstacles that get in the way of giving praise • Practical ways to persevere when kindness is tough • How kindness in marriage leads to benefits in the bedroom (yes, really!) • Why your acts of kindness today can help transform the world With self-assessments, day-to-day tips, a 30-day challenge, and specific kindness ideas, The Kindness Challenge can make your toughest relationships better and your good relationships great—starting today. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Confessions of a Happily Married Man Joshua L. Rogers, 2019-12-17 Discover God in the messiness of your marriage, as popular marriage and family columnist Joshua Rogers offers spouses hope with real-life stories from his own marriage and helps you see how God is at work in the ordinary and extraordinary of your relationship. Confessions of a Happily Married Man is a husband's painfully honest account of his first ten years of marriage. It offers a window into the perspective of a man who went from hello to I do in nine months and then figured out how hard marriage could be. When Joshua Rogers thought back on the marriage books he had read or sermons about marriage he had heard, it occurred to him that he could only remember one thing about them: the stories. That's why this book is anchored by stories that other couples will relate to and can easily learn from. The stories are cringe-worthy, humorous, inspiring, heart-breaking, and full of wisdom--but the author isn't telling the reader what to do with that wisdom. He's letting the reader learn along with him as he's gradually becoming more self-aware, increasingly grateful for his wife, and surprised to discover what God is doing in the middle of it all. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: No More Perfect Marriages Jill Savage, Mark Savage, 2017-02-07 “Many people say you can fix a broken marriage, but Mark and Jill show you how.” —Dr. Juli Slattery, psychologist, author, and president of Authentic Intimacy No marriage is perfect. But every marriage can get better. Do you feel like the spark is gone? Like a critical spirit has invaded your marriage? Like you want more intimacy, but something is in the way? You could be suffering from the Perfection Infection. The Perfection Infection happens when we cultivate unrealistic expectations of ourselves and our spouse, gradually leading to intimacy-killing behavior, also known as the “Seven Slow Fades.” That was the case for Jill and Mark Savage, and it eventually led to infidelity. In No More Perfect Marriages they speak honestly about their struggles, how they came back from betrayal, and the principles keeping their marriage strong today. They guide you in everything you need to know to kick the Perfection Infection right out and return to intimacy. In their warm, honest, personable style, Jill and Mark discuss: How the Perfection Infection invades a marriage—even a good marriage How to detect and correct the Seven Slow Fades How to set and communicate realistic expectations What to do if your spouse just won’t change How to guard your marriage from the Perfection Infection for good Hurting marriages can heal, and good marriages can become great. It takes work, yes, but No More Perfect Marriages will give you the insights, language, and roadmap you need for the journey. So start today. GROUP RESOURCES: A leader’s guide is included in the back of the book. FREE video curriculum and additional group resources are available for No More Perfect Marriages at www.NoMorePerfect.com. _____ “[Replaces] the Hollywood mirage of a storybook romance with a healthy blueprint of a real and rock-solid relationships. If you're looking for an authentic story, practical how-to, and hope to build true and lasting love, you've found it. — Michele Cushatt, author, Undone: A Story of Making Peace With An Unexpected Life “… Will empower readers to create healthier responses when facing marital challenges… Excited [to add it] to our recommended resources for couples. — Michelle Nietert, licensed counselor “Vulnerable, honest, and helpful… If you want to improve, save, restore, or renew your marriage, read this book.” — Mike Baker, sr. pastor, Eastview Christian Church, Normal, Illinois “Encouraging and very practical!” — Shaunti Feldhahn, social researcher and bestselling author of For Women Only and For Men Only |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: The 4 Seasons of Marriage Gary Chapman, 2012 Compares the transitional cycles of marriage to those of nature, describes the attitudes and emotions of each season, and offers seven strategies that enable couples to enhance and improve their marital relationship. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Surviving a Spiritual Mismatch in Marriage Lee Strobel, Leslie Strobel, 2002 The author of The Case for Christ now presents thoughts on the spiritual aspects of marriage. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: 31 Days to Becoming a Happy Wife Arlene Pellicane, 2014-02-01 You don’t have to be married very long to discover that your husband will not live up to all your expectations. And even if he is Mr. Wonderful, he will still do things that disappoint you...and even make you unhappy. But being a happy wife has more to do with choice than circumstance. It begins with your personal decision to choose happiness. And it’s characterized by a thread of thanksgiving that runs through your life, bringing with it contentment and cheerfulness. In 31 Days to Becoming a Happy Wife, Arlene Pellicane explores five character traits you can choose to develop in your journey toward happiness. Organized into 31 daily readings, her biblically based insights will show you the way to become Hopeful—believe that a happy marriage is within your reach Adaptable—learn to be open to change Positive—choose to be more optimistic Purposeful—discover a new vision for your role as a wife Yielded—experience joy as you submit to God’s plan Commit yourself to this month-long quest to becoming a happy wife and discover newfound joy for yourself and for your husband. The book includes a “Happy Wives Club Discussion Guide,” filled with thought-provoking questions for each daily reading that will enhance your personal or group study. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Vertical Marriage Dave Wilson, Ann Wilson, 2019-01-29 For anyone who is married, preparing for marriage, or desperate to save a relationship teetering on the brink of divorce, marriage coaches Dave and Ann Wilson offer hope and strategies gleaned from personal experience and Scripture that really work. Vertical Marriage will give you the insight, applications, and inspiration to transform your marriage into everything you hoped it would be. Honest to the core and laugh-out-loud funny, Dave and Ann Wilson share the one secret that brought them from the brink of divorce to a healthy and vibrant relationship. If you had asked Dave how their marriage was doing on the night of their tenth wedding anniversary, Dave would have rated it a 9.8 out of 10, and he would have even guaranteed that Ann would say the same. But instead of giving him a celebratory kiss, Ann whispered, I've lost my feelings for you. Divorce seemed inevitable for the Wilsons, but starting that night, God began to reveal to Dave and Ann the most overlooked secret of getting the marriage we are looking for: a horizontal marriage relationship just doesn't work until your vertical relationship with Christ is first. As founders of a multi-campus church and marriage coaches with 30 years of experience, Dave and Ann share the hard-earned but easy-to-apply biblical principles that ensure a strong marriage. Written in a highly relatable dialogue between both husband and wife, Vertical Marriage will guide you toward building a vibrant relationship at every level, giving you the tools you need to embrace: Effective communication Fair conflict True romance A deeper connection Through their unique perspectives, Dave and Ann share an intimate, sometimes hilarious, and at times deeply poignant narrative of one couple's journey to reconnecting with God and discovering the joy and power of a vertical marriage. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: The Argument-Free Marriage Fawn Weaver, 2015-08-04 Is an argument-free marriage possible? Fawn Weaver’s answer is yes, absolutely, even when one or both partners are strong willed, independent, and opinionated. (She admits to being all three.) In this groundbreaking book, the best-selling author and award-winning marriage blogger asks readers to invest twenty-eight days in learning how to live together without bickering, blame, angry outbursts, or silent treatments. Fawn begins with the startling premise that, contrary to popular opinion, conflict in marriage is not necessary or inevitable. Then she leads readers on a day-by-day journey toward a more peaceful and supportive relationship. Chapter by brief chapter, she offers fresh perspectives and practical strategies for communicating effectively, building understanding, and defusing anger while at the same time nurturing honesty, vulnerability, and mutual support. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Loving My Actual Life Alexandra Kuykendall, 2016-04-26 Feel Satisfied with Who and Where You Are In a world of comparison and discontent, it can feel impossible to be happy with life as we know it. Other people seem to have it all together, to be finding success, to be having more fun. But we weren't meant for a life characterized by dissatisfaction. In this entertaining and relatable book, Alexandra Kuykendall chronicles her nine-month experiment to rekindle her love of her ordinary actual life. After wiping her calendar as clean as a mother of four can, Kuykendall focuses on one aspect of her life each month, searching for ways to more fully enjoy her current season. By intentionally adding one thing each month that will make her jump for joy, she provides a practical challenge women can easily replicate. With humor, poignancy, and plenty of personal stories, Kuykendall weaves together spiritual themes and practical application into a holy self-awareness, showing women how a few small changes in their routines can improve their enjoyment of this crazy-busy life. Endorsement If you ever get the chance to read anything written by Alexandra Kuykendall, take it. She is a gentle, trustworthy storyteller who lives the words she writes about.--Emily P. Freeman, author of Simply Tuesday |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: His Brain, Her Brain Walt Larimore, Barb Larimore, 2009-07-13 She reads people, and he reads manuals. He doesn't ask for directions, and she doesn't appreciate his advice. She is so mysterious, and he is so practical. He does not seem to listen, and she seems so emotional. The list goes on and on . . . In a world where men and women are constantly told they are not different, His Brain, Her Brain shows couples what they instinctively know--men and women are different, and these divinely designed differences, when understood, make a marriage stronger and happier. Combining the latest brain research along with their experiences in over three decades of marriage and counseling, Dr. Walt and Barb Larimore explain how the unique design of each sex, particularly the unique brain and hormones of each, results in different habits, tendencies, and nuances of thought and action. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: The Intimate Connection Dr. Kevin Leman, 2019-04-30 Creating a happy, lifelong marriage is about much more than physical compatibility. It's about a lifestyle of 24-7 intimacy that bonds couples in a mutually satisfying relationship. In The Intimate Connection, bestselling marriage expert Dr. Kevin Leman explores key secrets to the love life couples crave. He helps readers - understand each other's needs, backgrounds, and personalities (and how those factors influence every marital interaction) - talk so their spouse really listens - turn negative game-playing into positive behaviors that help couples grow closer - create deep, long-lasting intimacy that's divorce-proof Whether couples are new to marriage or have been married a long time, Dr. Leman's time-tested strategies will create the kind of exciting intimacy, mutual respect, and fulfilling communication that will keep husbands and wives in each other's arms for a lifetime. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: How We Love, Expanded Edition Milan Yerkovich, Kay Yerkovich, 2009-01-20 Did you know the last fight you had with your spouse began long before you even met? Are you tired of falling into frustrating relational patterns in your marriage? Do you and your spouse fight about the same things again and again? Relationship experts Milan and Kay Yerkovich explain why the ways you and your spouse relate to each other go back to before you even met. Drawing on the powerful tool of attachment theory, Milan and Kay explore how your childhood created an “intimacy imprint” that affects your marriage today. Their stories and practical ideas help you: * identify your personal love style * understand how your early life impacts you and your spouse * break free from painful patterns that keep you stuck * find healing for the source of conflict, not just the symptoms * create the close, nourishing relationship you dream about Revised throughout with all-new material and additional visual diagrams, this expanded edition of How We Love will bring vibrant life to your marriage. Are you ready for a new journey of love? Note: The revised and expanded How We Love Workbook is available separately. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts Les Parrott, Leslie Parrott, 2015-10-27 OVER ONE MILLION COPIES SOLD! With this updated edition of their award-winning book, Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott help you launch lifelong love like never before. This is more than a book--it's an experience, especially when you use the his/her workbooks filled with more than 40 fun exercises. Get ready for deeper intimacy with the best friend you'll ever have. Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts, which has been translated into more than 15 languages, is the most widely used marriage prep tool in the world. Why? Because it will help you . . . Uncover the misbeliefs of marriage Learn to communicate with instant understanding Discover the secret to resolving conflict Master the skills of money management Get your sex life off to a great start A compelling video, featuring real-life couples, is available, and with this updated edition, Les and Leslie unveil the game-changing SYMBIS Assessment. Now you can discover how to leverage your personalities for a love that lasts a lifetime. Make your marriage everything it is meant to be. Save your marriage--before (and after) it starts. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage Focus on the Family, Greg Smalley, Erin Smalley, 2016-01-01 Every couple who wants a happy marriage will appreciate the revitalizing secrets in Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage. In it, Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley explore the traits of a healthy and thriving marriage. Based on research of thousands of strong couples across the country, the twelve essential elements outlined are not only biblically based; they also chart a course for a romantic adventure that will last a lifetime. With practical advice and stories from their own marriage and counseling experiences, Greg and Erin guide couples to find ways to work around roadblocks in their current relationship and to intentionally create communication patterns that will take them to emotionally safe places. Yes, marriage can have its twists and turns. But the detours don’t necessarily have to lead couples off course. Greg and Erin help couples map out a journey for their marriages so that they can enjoy the passionate and intimate relationship that God has promised. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Fight Your Way to a Better Marriage Greg Smalley, 2013-07-02 In this counter intuitive book, author Dr. Greg Smalley maintains that fighting is actually good for a marriage. Couples will learn how to fight their way to a better marriage, using the skills, concepts, and exercises shared in this remarkable book. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Praying for Girls Teri Lynne Underwood, 2017-07-18 Scripture-Based Prayers for Your Daughter's Specific Needs Instead of feeling overwhelmed by concerns for your daughter, enjoy the peace that comes when you pray targeted prayers for her straight from the Bible. No matter your girl's age, pray confidently about struggles she may be facing now and in the years to come. Covering five vital areas of a girl's life--her identity, heart, mind, relationships, and purpose--this easy-to-use book is ideal for anyone who feels intimidated or uncertain about what to pray for the girl they love. Rounding out the book are conversation starters and fun activities to help you guide your daughter into becoming a godly woman. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Finding the Hero in Your Husband, Revisited Juli Slattery, 2021-10-19 In an update of the groundbreaking original title, Dr. Juli Slattery illuminates the power of women in marriage, with an emphasis on the uniqueness of a woman’s capacity to build intimacy. What do you do if your husband won’t get a job? When you don’t like the way he's parenting the kids? How do you know when to stand up to a controlling husband—or if you’ve become a controlling or manipulative wife? Many women feel lost in their marriages. They don't know what to do with their disappointment, when to ask for help, or what it looks like to let go of the need to control. Yet, God has given women incredible power in marriage—but they have to learn how to use it. In a complete rewrite of her bestselling book, Finding the Hero in Your Husband, psychologist Dr. Juli Slattery gently guides women to see how their attempts to manage or fix the messiness of marriage may actually undermine the very connection they want to build. As you read this book, you will: See how disappointment in marriage isn’t the end of intimacy, but an opportunity to build true intimacy that will go the distance. Learn to use your relational power in a way that builds intimacy—instead of sabotaging it. Recognize the ways you unknowingly sabotage intimacy by using your power to take over in marriage. Understand what biblical submission isn’t and be empowered to step into the influence and responsibility you have within marriage. Solidly grounded in biblical truth, Juli covers topics such as work, home life, conflict, and intimacy. As a mentor and friend, she offers explanations of God’s design, healthy expectations, and relatable applications that women of faith can practice to influence their marriage and deepen their relationship with God. Ultimately, Finding the Hero in Your Husband, Revisited, will help a wife more clearly see and encourage the hero within her husband by examining her own heart. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: A Lifelong Love Gary Thomas, 2021-04-01 A good marriage isn’t something found; it’s something made. In this revised and updated edition of the bestselling book A Lifelong Love, author Gary Thomas shares that when couples pursue spiritual purpose and worship it builds lasting intimacy and friendship between them. In A Lifelong Love, Thomas takes couples on three essential journeys leading to a strong marriage: The journey toward each other The journey toward God The journey toward love Whether readers are feeling discouraged about their marriage or simply want to infuse their relationship with greater spiritual and relational passion, A Lifelong Love offers the guidance they need to embrace the eternal intentions that God has for them. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: I Wish He Had Come with Instructions Mike Bechtle, 2016-08-02 What Is He Really Thinking? When a woman begins a relationship with a man, she may think she's found her knight in shining armor. As the relationship continues, that armor can begin to feel like a barricade she just can't get past it. What's he hiding in there, anyway? Relationship and communication expert Mike Bechtle offers women an insider's guide to the puzzling male brain. Simple and practical, this book provides women with a roadmap for better conversations and improved relationships. Bechtle reminds readers that men and women share many similarities, and by embracing those similarities they can better deal with differences. He explains how men think, act, communicate, and grow in relationships, and even offers tips for communicating in a toxic relationship. Wives, girlfriends, mothers, daughters, friends, and coworkers will find real help within these pages. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: Facebook and Your Marriage Kelli Krafsky, 2010 Provides information on the features of Facebook along with advice on how to use the social networking site to strenghten one's marriage. |
| focusonthefamily com marriage assessment: The 10 Habits of Happy Mothers Meg Meeker, M. D., 2020-02-21 ”Sekiranya kita sanggup bersusah payah menolak lapan kilogram tembikai melalui bukaan sebesar lapan inci, kita boleh melakukan apa sahaja yang kita mahukan. Apa sahaja.” Kita akan belajar 10 tabiat baru yang membawa keseronokan, ketertiban, dan ketenangan dalam hidup kita semula. |
A Couple's Discussion Guide - Focus on the Family
FOCUS MARRIAGE ASSESSMENT Review Schedule Discuss Review your assessment results and then share them with your spouse. Set up a time to talk with your spouse. Plan on an …
A MARRIAGE PREPARATION INVENTORY - Focus on the Family
This questionnaire is designed to help identify strengths and potential trouble-spots in your relationship. Most of the questions have no “right” answers; the important thing is for you to …
Building Healthy Marriages - Charis: A Counseling and Care …
Online Marriage Assessments Marriage assessments provide opportunities for couples to answer questions and receive feedback about the strengths and challenges of their marriages. The …
Resource List: Marriage Materials - Focus on the Family
Focus on the Family Marriage Series (2014) This Bible study series gives couples a better understanding of God’s plan for marriage. The flexibility of each study allows for small group …
MARRIAGE - Focus on the Family
1. How is nourishing your spouse and your marriage different from cherishing or honoring your spouse? 2. What does it mean to care for your spouse in the same manner that Christ loved …
God's Design for Marriage - iteenchallenge.org
God created marriage as a loyal partnership between one man and one woman. Marriage is the firmest foundation for building a family. God designed sexual expression to help married …
Marriage is a special relationship ordained by God love and …
The two most common marriage assessments are the Focus on Marriage Assessment, developed at Focus on the Family and based on materials originating with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley, …
Before You Talk to Your Spouse - Hope Restored
Are you ready for a Hope Restored® intensive? Is your spouse? No matter what issues you’re both facing or how desperate your relationship seems, this guide will help you think about how …
The Online Assessment - Focus on the Family
We've designed this tool to help you evaluate your unique conflict style and gain a new perspective on your emotions and reactions. When you and your spouse identify what you're …
Marriage Resources - FOCUS ON THE FAMILY®
Learn how to stop the cycle. Creating greater love and passion in your marriage. Make conflict a constructive part of your marriage. should i Get a divorCe? Read this before you make your …
AMAZING AND FREE COUNSELING RESOURCES - Bible …
Focuses on preventing and healing sexual brokenness through relationships, including people in relationship with those ensnared by destructive sexual behaviors. Provides multiple resources …
FOCUS ON MARRIAGETM - Focus on the Family
Seriously dating, engaged or recently married, our Couple Checkup might be the best thing you do for your marriage! This online assessment tool will bring out the areas where you really …
Resource List: Marital Challenges - Focus on the Family
Hear tips for dealing with conflict, adultery, forgiveness, and how to know if you can trust your spouse again.
Creative and practical ideas - Daily Citizen
Our companion resource, “Raising Children Who Honor Marriage,” looks at God’s design for marriage; explains why marriage matters for kids, adults and society; and offers practical ideas …
JTU BREAKOUT QUESTIONS - Focus on the Family
In this season of your marriage, what can things can you do to care for yourself (emotionally, spiritually, mentally and physically)? How can your spouse best support you in this activity? …
discovering your core fear - Focus on the Family
Jun 11, 2015 · If your marriage is in crisis, contact Focus on the Family’s National Institute of Marriage, www.nationalmarriage.com, (866)875-2915
Building a Thriving Church Marriage Ministry - Focus on the …
have a successful thriving marriage ministry in their church, reach married couples, and have an outreach within their community because of it. Our hope is that this book will also start a …
Jo˜ney˚ Us C˛f˝ence - Focus on the Family
president of Marriage and Family Formation at Focus on the Family in the United States. In this role, he develops and oversees initiatives that prepare individuals for marriage, strengthen and …
MARRIAGE - Focus on the Family
See if you recognize some of these popular marriage scams: Marriage is easy when you find “the one.” Conflict is a sign of a troubled relationship. Romance and passion will always be alive in …
RECONNECTED EXPERIENCE STUDSTUDY GUIDEY GUIDE
Your marriage is not a safe haven where you feel unconditionally loved and accepted. VISIONLESS You don’t share a clear dream for the life you’re building together. From time to …
A Couple's Discussion Guide - Focus on the Family
FOCUS MARRIAGE ASSESSMENT Review Schedule Discuss Review your assessment results and then share them with your spouse. Set up a time to talk with your spouse. Plan on an hour. Talk …
A MARRIAGE PREPARATION INVENTORY - Focus on the …
This questionnaire is designed to help identify strengths and potential trouble-spots in your relationship. Most of the questions have no “right” answers; the important thing is for you to …
Building Healthy Marriages - Charis: A Counseling and Care …
Online Marriage Assessments Marriage assessments provide opportunities for couples to answer questions and receive feedback about the strengths and challenges of their marriages. The two …
Resource List: Marriage Materials - Focus on the Family
Focus on the Family Marriage Series (2014) This Bible study series gives couples a better understanding of God’s plan for marriage. The flexibility of each study allows for small group …
MARRIAGE - Focus on the Family
1. How is nourishing your spouse and your marriage different from cherishing or honoring your spouse? 2. What does it mean to care for your spouse in the same manner that Christ loved the …
God's Design for Marriage - iteenchallenge.org
God created marriage as a loyal partnership between one man and one woman. Marriage is the firmest foundation for building a family. God designed sexual expression to help married couples …
Marriage is a special relationship ordained by God love and …
The two most common marriage assessments are the Focus on Marriage Assessment, developed at Focus on the Family and based on materials originating with Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley, and the …
Before You Talk to Your Spouse - Hope Restored
Are you ready for a Hope Restored® intensive? Is your spouse? No matter what issues you’re both facing or how desperate your relationship seems, this guide will help you think about how and …
The Online Assessment - Focus on the Family
We've designed this tool to help you evaluate your unique conflict style and gain a new perspective on your emotions and reactions. When you and your spouse identify what you're really dealing …
Marriage Resources - FOCUS ON THE FAMILY®
Learn how to stop the cycle. Creating greater love and passion in your marriage. Make conflict a constructive part of your marriage. should i Get a divorCe? Read this before you make your final …
AMAZING AND FREE COUNSELING RESOURCES - Bible …
Focuses on preventing and healing sexual brokenness through relationships, including people in relationship with those ensnared by destructive sexual behaviors. Provides multiple resources …
FOCUS ON MARRIAGETM - Focus on the Family
Seriously dating, engaged or recently married, our Couple Checkup might be the best thing you do for your marriage! This online assessment tool will bring out the areas where you really shine as a …
Resource List: Marital Challenges - Focus on the Family
Hear tips for dealing with conflict, adultery, forgiveness, and how to know if you can trust your spouse again.
Creative and practical ideas - Daily Citizen
Our companion resource, “Raising Children Who Honor Marriage,” looks at God’s design for marriage; explains why marriage matters for kids, adults and society; and offers practical ideas …
JTU BREAKOUT QUESTIONS - Focus on the Family
In this season of your marriage, what can things can you do to care for yourself (emotionally, spiritually, mentally and physically)? How can your spouse best support you in this activity? How …
discovering your core fear - Focus on the Family
Jun 11, 2015 · If your marriage is in crisis, contact Focus on the Family’s National Institute of Marriage, www.nationalmarriage.com, (866)875-2915
Building a Thriving Church Marriage Ministry - Focus on the …
have a successful thriving marriage ministry in their church, reach married couples, and have an outreach within their community because of it. Our hope is that this book will also start a …
Jo˜ney˚ Us C˛f˝ence - Focus on the Family
president of Marriage and Family Formation at Focus on the Family in the United States. In this role, he develops and oversees initiatives that prepare individuals for marriage, strengthen and …
MARRIAGE - Focus on the Family
See if you recognize some of these popular marriage scams: Marriage is easy when you find “the one.” Conflict is a sign of a troubled relationship. Romance and passion will always be alive in a …
RECONNECTED EXPERIENCE STUDSTUDY GUIDEY GUIDE
Your marriage is not a safe haven where you feel unconditionally loved and accepted. VISIONLESS You don’t share a clear dream for the life you’re building together. From time to time, all married …
