Episode

Marriage

Episode

129

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Does One Spouse Have the Power to Positively Affect the Marriage?

Watch Intro Video

Emerson and Jonathan challenge couples to reconsider their perspectives on marital issues, looking beyond negative aspects and exploring the front-side strengths of each spouse. The influence of individual choice and free will in a marriage is discussed, with a focus on whether one person's positive choices can impact a relationship when the other remains negative. Drawing on biblical references, particularly Peter's advice on positive behavior influencing a disobedient spouse, and discussing the concept of the "Rewarded Cycle," the emphasis is on the importance of positive choices, patience, and personal control over actions and reactions.

Emerson Eggerichs, Ph.D.

Author, Speaker, Pastor

Jonathan Eggerichs, Psy.D.

Psychologist

Questions To Consider

Reflecting on your own marriage, when was a time that one spouse’s positivity affected the marriage in a good way even though the other spouse was more negative on the matter? How was the negative spouse won over or swayed to the more positive side?
First Thessalonians 5:18 instructs us to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Why does a believer in Christ always have reason to give thanks and remain positive? Can this person give thanks for the front sided positives?
Have you seen 1 Peter 3:1-2 or 1 Peter 3:7 prove true in your own marriage? How so? How have you seen God’s favor according to 1 Peter 2:19,20?
How does the story of Job and his wife encourage you? How does it give you a new perspective when it comes to the conflicts you most often have with your spouse? Do you believe God will favor you?

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