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Julie Holmquist

Julie Holmquist is a content producer for the Focus on the Family marriage team. She’s been married to her husband, Jeff, since 1986 and is also the author of A Call to Love: Preparing Your Heart and Soul for Adoption.

A couple is consulting with a doctor in an office, discussing their efforts to get pregnant. The doctor, wearing a white coat and glasses, listens attentively. The couple sits closely together, indicating support and partnership as they explore the do's and don'ts of trying to get pregnant.

Trying to Get Pregnant? 7 Do’s and Don’ts for Couples

If you’re trying to get pregnant, know that there are several things you can do to increase your likelihood of conceiving. Avoiding stress and planning intercourse around ovulation are practical steps, also realize that the process may take some time. Praying together and looking at all the potential factors are helpful as well.

A woman types on her smartphone in a bright kitchen, illustrating how to comfort someone over text with a calm and thoughtful expression.

How to Comfort Someone Over Text

With a simple text, you can comfort someone and pass along powerful encouragement, just as the apostle Paul did in his letters. Even a short text can lift spirits and express love. Say you’re praying. Let your friend know that you’re available to meet in person if possible and to provide any other tangible help.

A husband twirling his wife as they dance on the beach to rekindle their relationship.

5 Ways You Can Rekindle Your Relationship with Your Spouse

As Christians, we know that staying close to Jesus requires time and effort. So why do we think we can take our spouse for granted? Staying close to our spouse also takes time and effort. Try these five ways to rekindle your relationship.

A couple sitting across from each other hold hands, in support of each other. Be on the lookout for warning signs of mental health issues.

Warning Signs that Your Spouse Has Mental Health Issues

When spouses stay alert to changes in each other, they can catch warning signs of possible mental health issues early on and seek the help they need. Watch for drastic emotional, cognitive, physical, behavioral, or spiritual changes. If a souse needs help, it’s wise to initiate a gentle conversation, ask questions, and get an outside opinion.

A man and woman smile and hold their wedding bands together as if they are interlocked, symbolizing prayers for marriage restoration.

4 Healing Prayers for Marriage Restoration

When you realize your marriage is in need of restoration, you can always turn to God. Asking God to heal the key aspects of your marriage like commitment, communication, connection, and intimacy, can refocus you on what really matters. The power of prayer can give you hope for a better marriage, and the courage to seek help.

Uncommon Evangelism - Tony and Lauren Dungy pose for a photo in front of a fountain

Lauren and Tony Dungy: Uncommon Evangelism

How Lauren and Tony Dungy use every opportunity to share the Gospel