Adore each other, and by the way, let it show
I adore John, and I know that he adores me, and I assume that my girls know this.
It’s so important for husband and wife to build each other up in front of their kids, especially during their teen years.
I’ve always wanted my girls to think the sun rises and sets in their daddy.
It not only fosters confidence and security in your kids, it impacts your marriage in a positive way, because we all want is adoration, don’t we? Especially when it comes from our spouse.
Be authentic (to a certain extent)
First of all, give your teens some credit. They’re not stupid. They know when they’re problems.
I’m certainly not suggesting that you air all of your dirty laundry to your children when it comes to your marriage. But I am suggesting that they see as many aspects of your relationship as possible, the good and the bad.
I want my daughters to take marriage seriously. I want them to know that marriage is one of the most rewarding relationships that they will ever have.
I also want them to know that it takes hard work and tenacity. So, how do they learn that if all they see are the good, happy aspects of our relationship?
There are times John and I argue and tension arises. That is normal because we are human and we are two different personalities trying to navigate life together.
We don’t hide this from them.
All couples in marriage are going to go through hard times. Some of those hard times may lead to divorce and some couples may choose to stay together for the sake of the kids. They choose this and then go through the motions without ever addressing the issues in their marriage. This leads to discontentment.
So, can I offer something else? Don’t stay together for the sake of the kids.
Rather, for their sake, stay together and do the hard work to restore your marriage.
When our marriage went through hard-core devastation, we had to fight to keep it alive.
They know how to fight.
They know that marriage takes work and is not easy, but they also know that doing the hard work can be so very rewarding.
Lastly, and most important, let God be the center of your home. Our family wouldn’t be where it is today without God. He deserves all the credit. When you put Him as center, you cannot fail!
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This article originally appeared at LoriSchumaker.com.
