We know many couples who have split up or who are seriously questioning their future together, and the one thing that is crystal clear with all of them is that their relationship did not break down overnight.

You may be wondering where your marriage will stand in 2023 or if you can overcome the hurts and conflicts that have happened in your marriage. If you have been looking for a change, but don’t know where to start, then you’ll want to pay special attention to this episode!

Our guests, Mark and Jill Savage, know the stress and pain that comes with a broken marriage. They know the habits, assumptions, and choices that can pull couples apart. Jill is the author of 14 books, two of which are co-authored with Mark. They frequently speak about marriage and offer coaching to other couples.

Mark & Jill share with us:

• Their personal story of repairing their marriage
• The slow fades that can erode a marriage
• The difference between forgiveness and making amends
• And ways to reignite your marriage!

We hope you enjoy this conversation!

Links:

• Empty Nest, Full Life by Jill Savage
• Connect with Mark and Jill on their website
• Join the 4 week email marriage challenge!

Our Takeaways:

1) Beware of the slow fades in your marriage. A slow fade is like the ocean waves eroding away a beach. While you can’t see it happening, you would see the proof if you were to return years later. Some of the biggest slow fades in our marriages are busyness, lack of intentional connection, and being too focused on our kids. We must fight to counter these slow fades, so they don’t overtake our relationships.

2) Forgiveness does not automatically rebuild trust. Contrary to popular belief, forgiveness doesn’t mean we immediately have restored trust, especially if the behavior has become a pattern. It’s essential to communicate to your spouse areas where there is a pattern of broken trust. This helps them become aware and to take the first step in changing. Don’t be surprised if it takes time to restore it fully.

3) Don’t try to do this alone. You may want to keep this between just the two of you, but I urge you to get help from a therapist, counselor, pastor, or trusted friend to work through these issues. So much of our own past impacts our marriage and how we behave. A good support system can help you navigate your way back to each other.

4) Be led by God’s word, not your emotions. It’s easy to be swept up by how hurt we feel or betrayed. It’s alright to feel that way, but we need to be careful not to be solely led by our emotions. Instead, we need to lean on God’s truth and let that guide our actions. Trust us when we say this isn’t an easy thing to do! It is only possible through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Meet Our Guests