If you know me well, you probably aren’t shocked to hear that I tend to talk more than I listen. My wife, Marilyn, graciously reminds me of this from time to time. She’s even said I’ve gotten better—and I have—but I still have a long way to go. I try to stay self-aware and keep a mental governor on my words, but sometimes, that filter just slips.
Last night was one of those moments. We had dinner with a group of people I really enjoy, and I got comfortable. Too comfortable. The conversation flowed, but so did my words—unchecked. Afterward, Marilyn kindly affirmed me but also gently suggested that listening more and talking less would’ve been the better choice.
That landed with me this morning. And here’s the tough truth: you can’t hit rewind and undo a mistake. What’s done is done. But the grace of God? It’s fresh every morning. Scripture reminds us that God will complete the work He started in us—and that gives me hope.
So today, I’m leaning into grace. I’m choosing to let go of regret and move forward. More importantly, I’m choosing gratitude. I’m grateful for a wife who loves me enough to speak truth in love, who helps me grow—not just as a husband and friend, but as a follower of Christ.
Key Takeaways for a Healthy Marriage:
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Live in God’s grace. Romans 8:1 reminds us that there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. Mistakes don’t define us—God’s mercy does.
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Don’t take offense when your spouse gives feedback. Correction, when given in love, is a treasure. It’s painful to the proud, but gold to the humble.
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Bring your spouse’s counsel before the Lord. Don’t just dismiss it. Pray about it. Let it stir growth and deepen your connection with both God and your spouse.
It’s hard to be confronted with our flaws, especially by the person we love most. But when we drop our defenses and open our hearts, something powerful happens: we grow. We become more compassionate, more Christ-like, and better equipped to love well.
Today’s Anchor Verse:
“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19 (NIV)
A Word to Pastors and Church Leaders
As shepherds of God’s people, you pour into others daily—encouraging growth, accountability, and grace within the body of Christ. But let’s not forget: that same grace is for you, too.
Encouragement for Your Own Marriage:
Your marriage is not a platform to perform on—it’s a sacred space to be real, vulnerable, and growing. Take time to invite your spouse’s honest input. It may sting at times, but it’s God’s refining fire, helping you lead your home with the same humility you encourage from the pulpit.
Encouragement for Your Congregation:
This message isn’t just for the home—it’s for the whole church. Encourage your people to:
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See correction as a gift, not a grievance.
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Cultivate humility in relationships.
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Value emotional safety in marriage by promoting truth spoken in love.
Remind them that strong marriages are built not on perfection, but on grace, patience, and a willingness to grow. When couples embrace this, it creates a ripple effect of healthier families, deeper discipleship, and a more unified church.
Brad Rhoads is co-founder of Grace Marriage.
Brad Rhoads is co-founder of Grace Marriage.