“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Bible Verses For A Struggling Marriage
Understanding and Compassion
In any relationship, especially in a marriage, we might hit some rough patches. During these times, understanding and compassion can go a long way. We need to remember that our partner is human too, with their own struggles and feelings. When things get tough, let’s remind ourselves to be gentle and considerate. This is part of developing a strong bond that withstands trials. The Bible encourages us to show compassion towards each other, fostering a loving environment where both individuals can feel heard and valued. It’s crucial for our struggling marriage to prioritize understanding, even when things aren’t perfect. Finding grace in our emotions and showing empathy can help us navigate through rough waters and strengthen our connection.
1 Peter 3:8
“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.” – 1 Peter 3:8
Colossians 3:12
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10
Communication Basics
When our marriage feels like it’s struggling, we need to prioritize our communication. Good conversations are the foundation of a healthy relationship. We should strive for open, honest talks, where both partners feel safe expressing their feelings and thoughts. The Bible speaks often about the significance of our words. How we communicate can either build up our relationship or tear it down. By practicing effective communication, we reduce misunderstandings and make our connections stronger. Let’s remember that communication is not just about talking, but also about listening to each other, showing respect, and validating our partner’s feelings. By nurturing this aspect of our struggling marriage, we can create a space where love thrives.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
Proverbs 18:21
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21
Ephesians 4:15
“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” – Ephesians 4:15
Proverbs 25:11
“Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a ruling rightly given.” – Proverbs 25:11
Ecclesiastes 3:7
“A time to tear, and a time to mend; a time to be silent, and a time to speak.” – Ecclesiastes 3:7
Forgiveness and Healing
In our marriages, there will be times when we hurt each other, whether intentionally or unintentionally. It’s essential to understand that offering forgiveness is a profound act of love. Holding onto grudges or resentment only festers and makes our struggling marriage harder to manage. Instead, let’s embrace the power of forgiveness, reflecting the grace God shows us every day. The Bible talks about forgiveness as a way to heal and rebuild. By forgiving each other, we open a path for healing and renewal in our relationship. It’s a journey that may take time, but it’s also a beautiful opportunity for growth and deeper love.
Matthew 6:14
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” – Matthew 6:14
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Ephesians 4:31-32
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:31-32
Mark 11:25
“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” – Mark 11:25
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16
Building Trust
Trust is the backbone of any marriage, and in times of struggle, it becomes even more crucial. Trust allows us to feel secure in our relationship and ensures that we can share our hearts without fear. As we work through challenges in our marriage, let’s focus on building and restoring trust. The Bible teaches us to be trustworthy and encourages us to honor our commitments. By being honest and transparent, we create a safe environment where love can flourish. It’s important to honor each other’s confidences and remain loyal, even when the going gets tough. Together, we can create a secure foundation for our struggling marriage, paving the way for a healthier future.
Proverbs 3:5
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
Psalm 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.” – Psalm 37:5
Proverbs 11:13
“A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” – Proverbs 11:13
Ephesians 4:25
“Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” – Ephesians 4:25
1 John 1:7
“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” – 1 John 1:7
Quality Time Together
In the hustle and bustle of life, we sometimes forget to carve out time just for each other. Quality time is essential for nurturing our marriage, especially when things feel rocky. Let’s remember that love grows in the moments we share, whether big or small. The Bible illustrates the importance of togetherness and shared experiences. By prioritizing moments of fun and laughter, we can rejuvenate our connection. This doesn’t have to be extravagant; even simple activities can make a world of difference. By consciously setting aside time for each other, we lay the groundwork for a stronger relationship, inviting God’s presence into our struggles.
Ecclesiastes 4:9
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9
Mark 6:31
“Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.'” – Mark 6:31
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Philippians 1:3
“I thank my God every time I remember you.” – Philippians 1:3
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Praying Together
Prayer connects us not only with God but also with our spouse. When our marriage struggles, praying together can be a powerful way to realign our hearts and minds. As we turn to God in prayer, we invite His guidance and strength into our relationship. The Bible emphasizes the importance of prayer in every aspect of our lives, including our marriage. Praying allows us to express our worries, seek comfort, and share our joys together. Let’s not underestimate the power of joining in prayer; it can transform our pain into purpose. By praying together, we are not only inviting God into our struggles but also fostering unity and love that is essential for overcoming challenges.
Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20
Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16
Colossians 4:2
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” – Colossians 4:2
Love Languages in Action
Understanding how we express and receive love is vital in any relationship, especially when faced with struggles. Recognizing our love languages can help us communicate our feelings better and strengthen our bond. The Bible teaches us to love one another, but it also encourages us to be thoughtful about how we go about showing that love. Whether it’s words of affirmation, acts of service, or quality time, our love languages should be celebrated and nurtured. By making an effort to speak each other’s love language, we create a warm environment where love can flourish, even in the midst of challenges. Embracing this concept can be a lifeline for our struggling marriage and a source of inspiration for new beginnings.
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
Romans 13:10
“Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” – Romans 13:10
Galatians 5:13
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
1 Thessalonians 3:12
“May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.” – 1 Thessalonians 3:12
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on our journey through these Bible verses for a struggling marriage, we realize just how essential understanding, communication, forgiveness, trust, quality time, prayer, and love languages are in nurturing our relationships. Each aspect plays a vital role in guiding us through the storms and towards calmer seas. Together, we can embrace these principles to strengthen our bonds, open our hearts, and restore hope. Marriage, like any relationship, requires commitment and care. With a firm foundation in faith and love, we can find our way back to each other, even in challenging times.
Let’s commit to nurturing these practices, reminding ourselves that it’s normal to face struggles. By leaning into God’s word, we can find inspiration to hold on, work together, and walk through life’s challenges hand in hand. Each day is a new opportunity to grow closer and more resilient as a couple.
Ultimately, we are not alone in this journey. With God’s guidance and each other’s support, we can look ahead with hope, ready to fill our marriage with love, joy, and an unbreakable bond.
Further Reading
5 Ways You Can Make a Difference to Change the World!
30 Powerful Best Bible Verses For Good Morning (With Commentary)
30 Powerful Best Bible Verses For God’S Love (With Commentary)
30 Powerful Best Bible Verses For Girls (With Commentary)
30 Powerful Best Bible Verses For Girlfriend (With Commentary)
30 Powerful Best Bible Verses For Funerals (With Commentary)