Every marriage faces hardship. It’s a given. This list covers most of the common troubles, but your situation is unique. The key point here is to face the difficulty—whatever kind of struggle it is—together with your wife. Do you remember your marriage vows? “For better, for worse…” “In sickness and in health…” “For richer, for poorer…”
These promises presuppose tough times. We went into our marriage with our eyes open, so there’s really no excuse for not bringing everything we have to the table when things once in a while get dicey. Here are 4 marital hardships and how to overcome them.
Table of Contents
1. Financial Struggle
The stress associated with money problems can be overwhelming. But in the end, it’s only money.
- Commit to a plan.
- Live simply.
- Never keep financial secrets from each other.
2. Challenging Children
Even the best-behaved children in the world present challenges, and the number one casualty is always the relationship between their mom and dad. Nurture your relationship with your wife, and you will be better equipped to deal with whatever the kids dish out. For single dads, it’s increasingly important to stay connected with your child’s mother, as hard as that might be.
3. Immaturity
Great relationships are supposed to mature over time. If you still relate to one another the same way you did when you first married, then it’s past time for the marriage to grow up. Get involved in a couples group at your faith community. Love one another “out loud.” Invest in the marriage as if your life depends on it, because it does.
4. Unfaithfulness
Marriages run into this hardship often. We may not sleep with other women, but we’re all guilty of being unfaithful with our time, attention, priorities, the way we use our resources, and so much more. One way to deal with this is to recommit yourself to your wife. Woo her all over again. Make it clear where your priorities steer your time and attention.
