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GIVE FAMILIES HOPE this Christmas!

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Bill Arbuckle

Bill Arbuckle

Bill Arbuckle is the Special Projects Manager for the Marriage team at Focus on the Family.

A couple sits on a couch, heads in hands, backs turned to each other, and clearly annoyed with each other. Spouses can become rivals in politically divided marriages.

How to Avoid a Politically Divided Marriage

How do you avoid a politically divided marriage when the person on the other side of your bed is also on the other side of the political aisle?

Your Spouse’s Flaws – How and When to Give Grace

What should you do if your spouse’s flaws drive you crazy? Give grace? Or should you confront it because it’s missing God’s mark?

Marriage 911 – Caring for Yourself as a Mentor

As a Marriage 911 mentor, you spend time caring for others. Make sure you’re practicing godly self-care as well.

Marriage 911 logo on a red background

Marriage 911 – The First Phone Call

The church is ready. Your mentor team is trained. And you’ve just had a couple request a Marriage 911 mentor. Now what?

A husband and wife having a difficult discussion while sitting on the couch. The man holds up a calculator, pointing at it in frustration. The woman covers her mouth with her hand. He is having trouble forgiving his spouse for her reckless spending.

How to Forgive Your Spouse

Forgiving your spouse is never easy. It means letting go of an offense. It means giving grace instead of nurturing a grudge. How do you do that?

Marriage Conference Helps Couple Heal from Infidelity

Marriage conferences not only save marriages, they can help good relationships grow stronger. They made all the difference for this couple.

Marriage 911 – Honoring Walls and Managing Resistance

Adobe Image Stock/@Grustock Mentoring and Emotional Walls So, there you are. You’re finally sitting down for a Marriage 911 session with your mentee. There’s a bit of small talk, a few questions about the previous week, and then it’s time to talk about …

Marriage Conferences – Focus on the Family

Interested in attending a Focus Marriage Conference? Visit us at one of these locations. 2022 Events SEMINARDATELOCATIONCHURCHResGen ConferenceJanuary 27-28, 2022Sioux Falls, SDRestoration GenerationLove Laugh PursueFebruary 18, 2021Fulton, MOHam’s Pra …

11 Characteristics of Married Roommates

Catch all the foxes, those little foxes, before they ruin the vineyard of love, for the grapevines are blossoming! (Song of Solomon 2:15, NLT). What are married roommates? The phrase “married roommates” can look very different depending on the couple. …

A welcome sign on a door

At Home With the Smalleys

Join Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley on Facebook Live as they share ideas and insights to strengthen your relationship.

Reconnected Resources

Get the tools, assessments, articles and videos mentioned during the Reconnected Group Study.

a woman and a man talk to each other while leaning on pillows

Intimacy — A Perfect 10 Marriage Meditation

Intimacy is a lifelong invitation to let your spouse get to know the “real you” — your hopes, dreams, fears and secrets.

a couple cheers each other on while doing chores

Shared Responsibilities — A Perfect 10 Marriage Meditation

While are no spiritual laws for vacuuming or dusting, the Bible has things to say about how couples can deal with chores. But it’s not easy.

A family serves Thanksgiving dinner

How To Survive Thanksgiving Dinner With Family

Two things bring a chill to the Thanksgiving holiday: an unexpected blizzard and an invitation to the annual family dinner. While you may spend a few days digging out from the snowfall, the fallout from a family get-together can last several years. So, …

a gardener waters a plant in a garden

Marriage Meditation — Growing Together as a Couple Is Like Growing a Garden

Growing together as a couple is like growing a garden. Your spouse and your relationship need daily encouragement.

a young woman and man sit back to back after an argument

Conflict — A Perfect 10 Marriage Meditation

The sign of a healthy marriage is not the absence of conflict, but the love and respect shown amid the conflict.

A group of men and women hold hands and pray

Pastor Appreciation: Three Ways to Pray for Your Pastor’s Marriage

Pastor Appreciation is more than a once-a-year event. Start by praying for your pastor’s family and your pastor’s marriage.

a man and woman dance together in a kitchen.

Time Together — A Perfect 10 Marriage Meditation

There is no secret formula to a lifelong love. It takes commitment. It takes work. And it takes time. Time spent together.

a man and woman talk at the dinner table

Communication — A Perfect 10 Marriage Meditation

On a scale of one to 10 — with 10 being the highest — where do you rate your marriage? Good communication can make your marriage stronger.

Perfect 10 Marriage

Perfect 10

Join the Perfect 10 Marriage Event from Focus on the Family! Saturday, October 10, 8:30 p.m. EST. Premieres on YouTube.

a man and woman are showered with rice and confetti after their wedding

Marriage Meditation — Best Marriage Advice: You Can’t Change Your Spouse

The best marriage advice says you can’t fix your spouse. But God specializes in fixing broken things. He cares about your marriage.

A Black couple talks while laying across a bed

Marriage Meditation — Don’t Go to Bed Angry

Don’t go to be angry. You’ve heard it before. Why is it important? The Bible has much to say about anger and the damage it causes a marriage.

a mother holds a tiny baby's hand

It Wasn’t Supposed to End This Way

Life doesn’t always happen according to plan. This is our family’s story of an unexpected loss and the unexpected blessings we’ve received.

A man and woman dance among autumn leaves

Marriage Meditation – Love Is a Verb

Marriage begins with a promise to love. But promises are empty words unless the couple acts on them. Love is a verb. It requires action.

A man and woman enjoy the sunset on a beach

Marriage Meditation — The Fruit of the Spirit Is Self-Control

Getting Started Watch today’s Marriage Meditation video.Read today’s marriage devotion.Share today’s question with your spouse. https://youtu.be/LLEIEYRmMdg Today’s Devotion Scripture Reading Galatians 5:22-23 — “The fruit of the Spirit is … self-contr …

A man buys flowers from a woman in a shop

Marriage Meditation — The Fruit of the Spirit Is Gentleness

The Fruit of the Spirit is gentleness. Gentleness is often misunderstood, but when applied to your marriage, gentleness can strengthen your relationship.

Shadows of a man and woman arguing against a red wall. They have a lot of anger problems in their marriage and need to meditate on Bible verses for aid.

Six Scriptures to Help You Avoid an Angry Marriage

Learn how to avoid an angry marriage by memorizing these six verses and asking God to remind you of them when you’re tempted to lash out at your spouse.

A man and woman dance as they unpack boxes

Marriage Meditation – The Fruit of the Spirit Is Faithfulness

The fruit of the Spirit is faithfulness. Faithfulness means more than keeping your wedding vows. It involves being consistent, reliable and trustworthy.

a romantic couple hugging

Marriage Meditation – The Fruit of the Spirit Is Goodness

The fruit of the Spirit is goodness. What does goodness look like in our marriage? (Hint: It might be tougher than you’d think!)

A Man and woman walk together down a long path

Marriage Meditation – The Fruit of the Spirit Is Kindness

Kindness is “goodness in action.” You spouse has areas in his or her life where they need to see your kindness. Are you willing to give it?

a woman hugs her husband

Marriage Meditation: The Fruit of the Spirit Is Peace

If peace means resting in another’s promises, we can bring peace to our marriage by trusting our spouse and by becoming a trustworthy husband or wife.

A man and woman sit silently after arguing

Marriage Meditation: The Fruit of the Spirit Is Patience

It’s easy to be angry. But God challenges us to live differently. Galatians 5:22-23 tells us “The fruit of the Spirit is … patience.”

A man and a woman gaze over a canal and city lights

Three Ways to Invest in Your Marriage (and Have Fun Along the Way)

Investing in your marriage doesn’t have to be difficult. Start with a simple conversation every day, plan a weekly date night and then an annual adventure!

A man and woman ride bikes in a grassy area

Marriage Meditation: The Fruit of the Spirit Is Joy

Joy is a gift from God that — when we choose it — can fill our marriage with contentment, confidence and hope.

a man and woman study the Bible

Marriage Meditation – Devotional Library

Grow your marriage with these marriage devotions from Focus on the Family.

a man offers a gust a slice of pizza

You Might Feel Hungry After Reading This

It’s hard to imagine, but there’s a significant number of families who don’t have enough to eat. Maybe that’s an opportunity for couples who want to help.

Close up of a heart-shaped string of lights held up by a woman's hand

Marriage Meditation: The Fruit of the Spirit Is Love

Love is essential to marriage. It’s also one of the fruits of the Spirit. A life-long love requires God’s help to stay together when the feelings fade.

a woman and her daughter give dad a Father's Day gift

This Father’s Day, Give Your Husband the Gift of Trust

Trust is scary. It’s never easy to trust your husband. What should you do if God is asking you to trust your husband?

A man and woman standing outside laughing together; he's looking at her as she looks off in the distance

A Marriage Meditation: Kind Words

Kind words are important to our marriage. We can use words that encourage our spouse or we can use words that hurt them. Which words will you choose?

Doctors and nurses rush a man with a hurt wrist into surgery

Married to a Front-line Worker

If you’re a front-line worker, you and your spouse may be dealing with the extra stress caused by the coronavirus. Need help? Here’s where to start.

a man and woman are sitting on a mountainside and watching the sunset

A Marriage Meditation: Time

Your marriage needs commitment. Especially a commitment to time with your spouse. Make the most of the little moments and watch your marriage grow.

A young man and woman sit at a table and talk over a cup of coffee

A Marriage Meditation: Disappointment

When your marriage isn’t what you expected and you feel disappointed, how can you get back the spark?

Ceramic piggy bank on a kitchen table in the foreground, with young couple adding a coin from the background

Family Finances and COVID-19: Five Helpful Tips

Family finances are taking a hit during the COVID-19 crisis. If you and your spouse are facing financial changes, here are five tips to help.

A young couple is arguing

Will Divorce Rates Jump Because of Coronavirus?

Divorce rates in China have increased since the coronavirus lockdown was relaxed. Will America see a rise in divorce rates as well? What is the real story?

water splashes out of a full glass

Emotional Self-Care Is Important to Your Marriage

Marriage takes two, but for a marriage to succeed, both spouses need to practice emotional self-care. Here’s how to start.

domestic violence husband fist wife crying

Coronavirus and Domestic Violence

As more people are quarantined because of the coronavirus pandemic, authorities expect the number of domestic violence incidents to increase. Here’s what you can do.

a woman wearing a surgical mask shops at a grocery store

Coronavirus: How to Keep Your Family Finances Strong

COVID 19 — the “coronavirus” — is changing how we live, work and connect with others. It’s also affecting family finances as businesses close or reduce hours to help lower the risk of spreading the virus. Because the changes in the market will affect f …

a man and woman dance together in their home

How Respecting Your Husband Can Make Him a Better Leader at Home

It’s not easy to see your husband’s imperfections and then choose to let him lead your family. But respecting your husband can make him a better man.

Close up of a woman's hands counting out a stack of one dollar bills

Is Financial Infidelity Hurting Your Marriage?

A growing number of Americans hide credit cards and bank accounts from spouses. Financial infidelity can damage your bottom line and destroy your marriage.

a woman cries on her husband's chest

Should You Always Apologize for Words That Hurt Your Spouse’s Feelings?

Many spouses refuse to accept responsibility for hurtful words. But when those words create emotional barriers, it’s difficult to communicate.

A couple laughs while watching TV

Can Guys Watch Hallmark Movies and Keep Their Man Card?

Love is in the air, and Hallmark movies are on the air this Valentine’s Day. Is it possible to sit down and — gasp! — actually enjoy a romance movie with your wife?

Marriage 911 Training

Adobe Stock/Master1305 Bring a Marriage 911 Training to Your Church Focus on the Family offers online and in-person training for your Marriage 911 ministry. This day-long training gives leaders and mentors the tools to walk alongside a couple in crisis …

Colorful tags decorate a Valentine's Day gift.

4 Things Guys Need to Know Before Buying Valentine’s Day Gifts

Stressed about finding the right Valentine’s Day gift? Start with these four helpful hints that will remind your wife how much you love her.

Abandoned wedding rings on the ground show the loss depicted in the Marriage Story movie.

A Film Reviewer’s Thoughts on Marriage Story and Real Marriages

Critics praise the way Marriage Story portrays a couple in crisis, but film reviewer Paul Asay says there’s a powerful message behind Marriage Story.

A brightly-lit cathedral represents the discussion of traditional marriage

The Church of England Said This About Marriage

The Church of England announced its stance on sex and marriage. You might be surprised how they define it.

a man looks at his watch while looking at a computer

How to Find Work-Life Balance for Your Marriage

Finding work-life balance isn’t easy. But it’s important for the health of your marriage. Here are four ways to start.

Couple reading the Bible and praying together at home.

Marriage 911 – Getting Started as a Lead Mentor Couple

Follow these steps to get started as a Marriage 911 lead mentor couple.

A group of Christians pray near a Bible

Marriage 911 – Finding Mentors

After identifying a lead mentor couple for your Marriage 911 program, seek couples in your church who can mentor others.

Couples are sitting around a table studying the Bible.

Marriage 911 – Finding a Lead Mentor Couple

Finding a lead mentor couple is the first step to creating a successful Marriage 911 ministry in your church.

Businesswoman writing on personal organizer schedule

Marriage 911 – Weekly Planning

Mentors and mentees should schedule time each week to read through lessons and prepare for weekly meetings.

Adobe Stock

Marriage 911 – Dealing with Domestic Violence

Two-thirds of pastors see signs of domestic violence among attendees. Does your Marriage 911 team have a plan to help victims and families?

A young couple walks through a field of flowers and tall grass holding hands at sunset. Date night with your spouse makes a difference. Intentional pursuit of my husband is worth the effort. Our marriage is worth it.

Marriage 911 – Mentoring or Counseling?

What is the difference between a Marriage 911 mentor and a counselor?

a person holds up a crown

Harry and Meghan and Marriage

Harry and Meghan are special, but you don’t have to be a prince or princess to treat your spouse like royalty.

a man and woman hold hands during a wedding

Oprah, Marriage and Sacrifice

Did Oprah get it right? Does marriage mean sacrificing your goals, plans and identity? Or does marriage offer something more?

A man standing in front of a sliding glass door looking at his cell phone

Is Online Cheating Really Infidelity?

It’s just a TV show. Nothing that happens on “Real Housewives” is “real.” Right? Meghan King Edmonds seemed to think her husband’s problem was real. Real enough that it led to the couple’s separation. Edmonds announced via podcast she had separated fro …

Young, black newlywed couple standing outside. He's holding her hand and kissing it.

How to Divorce-Proof Your Marriage If You Just Got Engaged

Your wedding is a one-day event. Your marriage lasts a lifetime. Divorce-proof your marriage by answering these three important questions.

a married woman folds clothes to help with household chores

Married … With Household Chores

Couples come clean about household chores and share what they’re willing to trade to avoid cleaning house.

Close up of a woman's hands counting a stack of one dollar bills

How to Avoid Money Mistakes in Your Marriage

Once you identify these money mistakes in your marriage, you can take steps to get your finances — and your marriage — on track.

A man and woman hold hands and share coffee

The State of Florida Wants to Mandate Premarital Counseling. Will It Help Couples?

Surveys find that divorce rates drop by 30 percent or more when engaged couples seek premarital counseling.

Close up of a woman's hands tying a bow on one of several small Christmas packages

Advent Devotionals for Couples: Week 4 – Love

All lovers know there is a price for love. And God – who is love – knows more than anyone else the cost of great love.

Couple standing on the beach at sunset

How to Stop Fighting Your Spouse: Seven Steps to Win-Win Solutions in Marriage

If you and your spouse want to stop fighting, then it’s time to remember that you and your spouse are a team.

A man and woman dance in the snow

Advent Devotionals for Couples: Week 3 — Filled with Advent Joy

What difference might the joy of seeing Christ make in your home?

married couple waiting

Advent Devotionals for Couples – Week 2: Advent Preparation and Waiting for Jesus

Though He came to earth already, we’re waiting for Jesus to return. Waiting is difficult but not passive. It should involve preparation.

A Christmas nativity set

Advent Devotionals for Couples – Week 1: Advent Hope

Focus on the Family invites you and your spouse to celebrate Advent. To pause from the hectic pace of the holiday season and remember those who waited for God’s promised Son, to hope in His Word and to rest in His love.

A Christmas candle burns brightly near a branch and other candles

Advent Devotionals — Readings for Couples

Focus on the Family invites you and your spouse to celebrate Advent. To pause from the hectic pace of the holiday season and remember those who waited for God’s promised Son, to hope in His Word and to rest in His love.

Couple’s Devotional: Shared Goals

Has God given you and your spouse a shared goal or a vision for your marriage? It’s time to identify it and act on it together.

Young couple resting in comfortable hammock at green garden.

Couple’s Devotional: Godly Self-Care

Your spouse can’t meet all your needs. The remedy is godly self-care — seeking Him as your source of fulfillment.

The healthy marriage model - A bride and groom stand near a lone candle during their wedding ceremony.

Couple’s Devotional: The Healthy Marriage Model

A healthy marriage flourishes when both partners support each other’s growth while seeking God’s guidance.

A young man on one knee proposes to a girl at sunset.

Couple’s Devotional: God’s Design for Marriage

When the world asks us about marriage, let’s respond by pointing them to Jesus’ timeless words. God’s design is not just relevant; it’s essential.