When I picked up this book and thumbed through the chapters, I was especially intrigued by Chapter 12: “Are You Ready to ‘Get Naked’?” When I flipped to it and began reading, I had to laugh. The first sentence reads, “When Charie and I were writing this chapter, we knew it would be the first one the guys would turn to.” Well, I’m not a guy, but I confess that I did read this chapter first! Preparing for your Marital Sexual Relationship Eric and I tell the couples we work with to prepare for their wedding night. No, I don’t mean practice, but mentally and emotionally prepare to give yourself … [Read more...]
Are You Ready to Marry an Entire Family? (Book Review, 12 Questions to Ask Before You Marry, Part 2)
This can be a tough question to answer. Some of us have been blessed with incredibly loving and giving in-laws, but we've all heard in-law horror stories. In-laws can be immense blessings to us or they can provide us with several growth opportunities (i.e., trials); but, whether your future in-laws are a blessing to you or a gargantuan challenge, you are still marrying your future spouse's entire family. Family Will Always Be There “Wait a minute! I thought the Bible clearly stated that men were supposed to leave their parents and cleave to their wife?!” (Gen. 2:24) Scripture does indeed say … [Read more...]
How to Get Your Partner to Always Tell the Truth (Book Review, 12 Questions to Ask Before You Marry, Part 1)
This week, we’ll be reviewing a few content areas from Clayton and Charie King’s book, 12 Questions to Ask Before You Marry. This is an excellent read and a good resource to work through! Nothing kills a relationship faster than dishonesty. Even seemingly small lies infect a healthy relationship. Sometimes relationships begin with an honesty only policy, but then one or both people decide it's easier to tell white lies. “If she knew I was late because I ran into my ex at the grocery store, she'd be furious. So, I'll just tell her I got stuck in traffic.” “If he knew that I spent over $60 on … [Read more...]