Discover How Relying on God Can Strengthen Your Marriage During Difficult Seasons
Every marriage faces difficult seasons—whether it’s financial stress, communication breakdowns, illness, or emotional distance. No matter how deeply in love a couple may be, challenges are inevitable. But in a Christian marriage, there is a unique source of hope and strength available: faith. Relying on God’s wisdom, grace, and guidance can help you weather the storms of life and emerge stronger as a couple.
This article explores how faith can serve as a powerful foundation during tough times in marriage, offering practical advice and spiritual insights to help you navigate difficult moments with God at the center. Whether you’re currently facing a challenge or want to prepare for the future, these faith-based principles can guide you through any storm.
1. Lean on Prayer for Strength and Guidance
Prayer is one of the most powerful tools we have in marriage, especially during tough times. When challenges arise, turning to God in prayer—both individually and as a couple—can provide the strength, wisdom, and clarity needed to navigate difficult situations. Praying together creates a deeper spiritual connection and invites God into the center of your marriage, allowing Him to guide your path.
In moments of frustration or uncertainty, prayer can offer peace. It’s a reminder that God is in control and that His grace is sufficient for whatever challenges you face.
Tip: Set aside time each day to pray together as a couple, asking God for wisdom and strength to get through tough seasons.
Amazon.com Buys [ad]
52-Week Christian Couples Journal: Prompts and…
365 Days of Prayer for Couples: Daily Prayer…
2. Trust in God’s Plan, Even When It’s Hard to See
One of the most difficult aspects of tough times in marriage is not knowing how or when the situation will improve. During these moments, it’s essential to trust in God’s plan, even when it’s hard to see how things will work out. Romans 8:28 reminds us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love Him,” which means that even in the most challenging circumstances, God is working for your good.
Trusting in God’s timing and sovereignty helps couples find peace, knowing that He is in control. While you may not understand why something is happening, trusting that God is using it for growth and purpose can bring comfort and hope.
Tip: When things feel overwhelming, meditate on scripture that reminds you of God’s promises and His faithfulness during difficult seasons.
Amazon.com Buys [ad]
DIVERSEBEE Bible Verse Cards, 60 Unique, Assorted…
Mr. Pen- Prayer Cards, 70 Unique Bible Verse Boho…
3. Open Up to Each Other in Honest, Faith-Focused Conversations
During tough times, it’s easy for couples to become disconnected or emotionally distant. Faith can serve as a bridge, helping couples reconnect through open, honest conversations that focus on their spiritual growth and the strength of their relationship. Inviting God into your conversations by discussing your challenges in light of His word helps keep the conversation grounded in love, grace, and humility.
When you’re open with your spouse about your fears, struggles, and hopes, you create space for healing and understanding. Honest conversations, rooted in faith, can turn conflict into an opportunity for growth and connection.
Tip: Before having a tough conversation, pray together for guidance and peace. Ask God to give you both patience and understanding as you navigate difficult discussions.
Amazon.com Buys [ad]
Christian Art Gifts 88 Great Conversation Starters…
Christian Culture (Couples Edition) – Conversation…
4. Remember That Marriage Is a Covenant, Not a Contract
In a Christian marriage, the relationship is not simply a contract between two people—it’s a covenant with God. This means that even during tough times, the commitment goes beyond feelings and circumstances. Remembering that your marriage is a sacred covenant helps anchor you during hard seasons. It’s not just about whether things are easy or fun; it’s about honoring the vows you made before God.
This mindset encourages couples to persevere through challenges with grace and patience, trusting that God is working to refine their relationship for His glory.
Tip: When tough times arise, reaffirm your commitment to each other and to God. Reflect on your wedding vows and remind each other that you are in this together for the long haul.
Amazon.com Buys [ad]
Kaysen Personalized Wedding Photo Our Vows Poster…
Custom Wedding Vows Framed, Wedding Vows Gift,…
5. Seek Christian Counseling When Needed
Sometimes, navigating tough times in marriage requires outside support. Christian counseling offers couples the opportunity to work through their struggles with the guidance of a professional who also shares their faith. A counselor can provide tools and strategies for communication, conflict resolution, and emotional healing—all while keeping Christ at the center of the conversation.
Seeking help is not a sign of failure; it’s a sign of wisdom and humility. God often works through others to help us in our times of need, and a Christian counselor can be an invaluable resource for couples going through tough times.
Tip: If you feel stuck or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek Christian counseling. Look for a counselor who aligns with your faith values and can offer biblically grounded advice.
Amazon.com Buys [ad]
Caring for People God’s Way: Personal and…
NKJV, The Bible For Hope: Caring for People God’s…
6. Lean on Your Faith Community
In times of struggle, it can be easy to withdraw from your faith community. However, one of the blessings of Christian marriage is the support you receive from fellow believers. Don’t be afraid to lean on your church family or small group for prayer, encouragement, and practical help. Whether it’s seeking advice from an older couple or asking your group to pray over your marriage, your faith community is there to lift you up.
Being open about your challenges and allowing others to support you not only strengthens your marriage but also deepens your connection with your faith family.
Tip: If you haven’t already, consider joining a couple’s Bible study or a church group where you can receive encouragement and guidance from other Christian couples.
Amazon.com Buys [ad]
NIV, Couples’ Devotional Bible (Build a Biblical…
Mr. & Mrs. 366 Devotions for Couples Enrich Your…
Your Marriage God’s Way: A Biblical Guide to a…
7. Practice Gratitude to Shift Your Focus
During difficult seasons, it’s easy to become fixated on what’s going wrong in your marriage. Practicing gratitude helps shift your focus back to the blessings in your life and marriage, even when things feel tough. Take time to thank God for the good things in your relationship, whether it’s small acts of kindness, moments of laughter, or simply the fact that you’re committed to working through challenges together.
Gratitude helps reframe your mindset, reminding you that God is present even in the hard times. By thanking Him for His provision and focusing on the positive aspects of your marriage, you create space for healing and hope.
Tip: Start a gratitude devotional, or journal where you and your spouse write down things you’re thankful for each day. Share these reflections with each other regularly.
Amazon.com Buys [ad]
WorldBazaar Christan Greeting Cards Kraft 24 Pack…
Always Peachy: Living Happy When Life Hurts
Morning Gratitude: Inspiring Moments to Start Your…
8. Rely on God’s Word for Comfort and Direction
When marriage becomes difficult, turning to Scripture can provide comfort, guidance, and encouragement. God’s Word is full of wisdom for every season of life, including the challenges you face in marriage. Verses about love, patience, forgiveness, and endurance can help you navigate tough times with a sense of peace and direction.
Whether it’s reading the Bible together each day or memorizing key scriptures that speak to your situation, God’s Word will strengthen your faith and remind you that He is walking this path with you.
Tip: Choose a Bible verse that resonates with your current season and commit to memorizing it as a couple. Repeat it often, especially during tough moments, to remind yourselves of God’s promises and guidance. Consider placing scripture word art around your home to encourage scripture memorization.
Amazon.com Buys [ad]
Jetec Bible Verse Scripture Wall Signs, As for Me…
Yookeer Christian Wall Art Office Inspirational…
BBTO Bible Verse Wall Stickers Inspirational Quote…
9. Forgive Each Other as Christ Forgives You
One of the most challenging aspects of tough times in marriage is dealing with hurt, disappointment, or unresolved conflict. Forgiveness is essential to moving forward and healing as a couple. In Ephesians 4:32, we are reminded to “be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Forgiveness in marriage is not just about letting go of the offense but also about choosing to extend grace, just as Christ extends grace to us.
Forgiving your spouse may not happen instantly, but through prayer and focusing on Christ’s example, you can begin the process of healing together. Let forgiveness be the foundation of your journey through tough times, paving the way for reconciliation and growth.
Tip: When struggling to forgive, pray together for the strength to release bitterness and embrace grace. Ask God to soften your hearts toward one another.
Amazon.com Buys [ad]
The Forgiveness Journal: A Guided Journey to…
The Forgiveness Workbook: Cultivate Compassion,…
ESV Prayer Journal: 30 Days on Forgiveness…
10. Embrace Your God-Given Roles
In a Christian traditional marriage, embracing your God-given roles can provide stability and direction during tough times. Ephesians 5:22-33 gives clear guidance on the roles of husbands and wives in marriage. Husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loves the church, and wives are called to respect and support their husbands. By leaning into these roles, couples can work through difficulties in a way that honors God’s design for marriage.
It’s important to remember that fulfilling these roles doesn’t mean ignoring your individual feelings or challenges—it means working together as a team, each honoring the unique responsibilities God has given you. In times of difficulty, respecting these roles can provide clarity, purpose, and unity.
Tip: Take time to reflect on your role as a husband or wife. Ask God to help you fulfill your role in a way that brings peace and strength to your marriage during difficult seasons.
Amazon.com Buys [ad]
The Covering: The Role of a Biblical Husband
The Helper: The Role of a Biblical Wife – 7 Week…
Adam Loves Eve: The Bible’s Guide for Men Seeking…
In Praise of Stay-at-Home Moms
The Takeaway
Marriage is a beautiful covenant, but it isn’t always easy. Tough times will come, but with faith at the center, you and your spouse can face challenges together. Whether through prayer, scripture, forgiveness, or leaning into your God-given roles, faith provides the strength and guidance needed to weather the storms of life.
By keeping God at the heart of your marriage, you’ll not only survive difficult seasons but thrive as a couple. Trust in His plan, lean on each other, and walk forward together in faith, knowing that God’s grace is sufficient for every challenge you face.
Share
As always, I’d love to hear from you – leave a comment below and let us know your favorite tips for helping each other through difficult times.
Last update on 2025-04-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
