In this week’s episode of the Grace Marriage podcast, Brad and Marilyn, alongside co-host Rick Dayton, dive into the importance of fun in marriage. Life can easily become a routine of responsibilities, but keeping joy and laughter alive is crucial for a thriving relationship. In this episode, they discuss practical ways to bring playfulness back into your marriage, share personal stories, and provide encouragement for couples looking to reconnect through fun.
Remember Cyndi Lauper’s hit song Girls Just Want to Have Fun? Well, it’s not just girls—everyone wants to have fun, especially in marriage! But as life gets busier and responsibilities pile up, fun often takes a backseat.
Laughter and playfulness aren’t just nice additions to a marriage; they’re essential for connection and joy. If you’ve noticed that your relationship feels a bit routine or predictable, it’s time to be intentional about bringing fun back into your marriage.
Why Fun Fades (and Why It Shouldn’t!)
As we get older, fun can take a hit. Responsibilities increase, exhaustion sets in, and routines become predictable. Without intentional effort, marriage can start to feel like Groundhog Day—repetitive and uninspiring.
But here’s the good news: fun doesn’t have to fade with age. In fact, research shows that play and laughter strengthen relationships, reduce stress, and enhance emotional connection. A playful marriage is often a strong marriage.
How to Infuse More Fun Into Your Marriage
If you’re wondering how to bring the spark of fun back into your relationship, try these ideas:
1. Shake Up Date Night
Date nights are great, but if they’ve become routine (dinner and a movie on repeat), it’s time to switch things up. Try a new restaurant, take a cooking class together, go on a spontaneous road trip, or even do something as adventurous as hang gliding (just make sure your in-laws don’t find out!).
2. Make a Bucket List Together
Sit down with your spouse and create a list of fun activities you both want to try. It could be as simple as hiking a new trail, attending a comedy show, or having a progressive fast-food dinner where you get different items from different places.
3. Do Something Unexpected
Surprise your spouse with something fun and out of the ordinary. Maybe it’s a late-night picnic, a dance party in your living room, or even an at-home spa night. Spontaneity keeps the relationship exciting!
4. Recreate a Special Memory
Revisiting your first date, complete with the same restaurant and music, can bring back those early butterflies. One couple even borrowed back an old car they used to own just to make their date extra special!
5. Laugh More
Laughter is truly good medicine. Whether it’s watching a funny movie, pulling harmless pranks, or sharing inside jokes, laughter builds connection and lightens life’s burdens.
6. Be Playful with Everyday Life
Fun doesn’t have to be extravagant. Play together in small ways—race each other to the car, challenge each other to silly competitions, or make even mundane tasks more enjoyable by doing them together.
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A Word to Church Leaders
As leaders in the church, your marriage sets an example for those you shepherd. A joyful, thriving marriage isn’t just a personal blessing; it’s a testimony to others.
Encouragement for Your Own Marriage:
It’s easy to prioritize ministry over marriage, but don’t forget that your relationship is your first ministry. Find ways to enjoy your spouse, laugh together, and protect your time as a couple. A marriage full of joy and fun will spill over into all other areas of your life and ministry.
Encouraging Your Congregation:
Many couples in your church are struggling with monotony in their marriage. Use your platform to encourage them to be intentional about fun. Consider hosting marriage nights that include games, laughter, and activities that help couples reconnect. Remind them that a marriage built on joy and intentionality reflects God’s goodness and grace.
Final Thoughts
Marriage is a lifelong journey, and fun should be a key part of that journey. If life feels heavy, let fun and laughter be the breath of fresh air your marriage needs. Be intentional, be playful, and most of all—enjoy the gift of your spouse!
What’s one fun thing you and your spouse can do this week? Pick something and go for it!
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