The Worst Marriage Advice

What is the worst marriage advice you have ever received?

Once, I was told, in a round-about way, to respect my husband by biting my tongue and not addressing his offenses toward me.  I can tell you with 100% certainty that I would not have the incredibly close and loving (32-year) marriage relationship I have today had I followed this person's guidance.

Women in crisis have shared all kinds of crazy “Christian” counsel they have received, and I often just shake my head in disbelief.  I think what grieves me the most is that the followed advice led straight to marital disaster.

There is no shortage of marriage advice available to us.  Some good, some bad.  However, I found that focusing on these few key components have made the biggest difference in my marriage:

• Communication.

  Marriage is messy at times, and nothing ever gets resolved silently.  Talking through our issues and quickly reaching a resolution is a non-negotiable component of marriage.

• Forgiveness.

  Learning to forgive each other from the heart is a pre-requisite for a godly, healthy marriage.  Otherwise, bitterness, resentment, and hatred take root and ultimately erode the relationship.

• Quality Time.

  Spending one-on-one time nurturing your bond helps keep the relationship fresh and exciting while deepening your emotional connection.  Neglecting each other over time only increases the distance of your paths and leads to relational detachment.

Marriage is supposed to be a blessed union.  But it requires effort on our end to help facilitate that outcome.  So, try not to overcomplicate things but stick to the basics and enjoy the fruit they produce.

What about you?  What is the worst marriage advice you have received?