Embracing Differences in a Christian Marriage

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Embracing Differences in a Christian Marriage

Let me begin this writing with the title from the 1987 movie “classic,” Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. It was and is a favorite of mine, and starred Steve Martin and the late John Candy. Without going into a movie critique, let me simply borrow two modes of transportation and portray a silly conversation.

Imagine the plane saying this to the train:

“You’re so slow, cautious and rigid! All you can do is conform and stay on one course (the tracks). ...

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18
JUN
0

Blog, Marriage Counseling

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The Characteristics of Loving Homes: Part 2

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The Characteristics of Loving Homes: Part 2

In my last article, I cited seven characteristics of successful and happy marriages. In this writing I would like to continue with TWO more observations. I have found that how a couple allows each other “Voice” and “Vote” matters.

What Is Voice?

One of the hallmarks found in a marriage and outside of the home is the freedom to share one’s point-of –view with each other. I call this having a voice.

Sharing one’s voice includes the following:

  • Communicating personal thoughts, feelings, mood, and ...
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28
MAY
0

Blog

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Characteristics of Loving Homes: Part 1

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Characteristics of Loving Homes: Part 1

In over 30 years serving homes as a Christian counselor, I have noticed some qualities that are found in loving and “successful” homes. Here is Part 1 of an ongoing series on the characteristics of these marriages.

The Characteristics Found in Loving Homes

Several characteristics are shared among the loving and successful homes that I’ve observed through my career as a Christian counselor. These include:

Respect – Partners value the other and express dignity towards each other.

Appreciation – Thankfulness is presented in words, ...

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21
MAY
0

Christian Counseling

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The Importance of Prayer to Couples

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The Importance of Prayer to Couples

On April 22, 2015, my father-in-law, Don, died just a month shy of his 90th birthday. On the day of his funeral, it was estimated that almost 450 people attended his memorial service. If one counted the many others who attended his wake the night before, sent cards or left phone messages the night before but could not attend, then one can only imagine the actual turnout. What a testimony to those who knew Don and were touched in many ...

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14
MAY
0

Blog

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Christian Counseling, Communication and Mondegreens

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Christian Counseling, Communication and Mondegreens

Since this is an article on communications, it is important to define and clarify this word: mondegreens. Mondegreens are mangled song lyrics that a listener might mishear or misunderstand.

Here are some examples:

“I’m just a girl” by No Doubt has been misheard as, “I’m just a squirrel”.

Our Star Spangled Banner begins with the words “O, Say can you see?” not “Jose can you see?”

The Beatles sang about “Paperback writer” not “Pay for ...

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23
DEC
0

Blog

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Christian Marriage Counseling

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Christian Marriage Counseling

People often wonder about the difference between a “Christian marriage counselor” and other types of good marriage counselors. While all types of marriage counselors discuss communication, conflicts resolution, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and encouraging ways partners can show love and respect to each other, Christian marriage counselors offer a unique, Biblical approach to counseling.

Christian Marriage Counseling Based on Biblical Principles

The Apostle Paul wrote this about a Christian marriage:

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself ...

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21
OCT
0

Blog, Marriage Counseling

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Who Should You Choose for Christian Marriage Counseling?

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christian marriage counselingWhat Is a Christian Marriage Counselor?

Christian marriage counselors may be pastors or individuals with both seminary training and counseling training. Many pastors offer marriage counseling as part of their ministry. Their goal is to help each partner get closer to God, pursue a mutual understanding and find unity together as a couple, and be discerning of God’s will for their lives and their marriages.

But it is important to note that ...

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20
FEB
0

Blog

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