Today’s episode of the Married and Lovet It Podcast focuses on the importance of being fully committed to your marriage, encapsulated in the idea of being "all in." Greg and Linda Smith share six actionable steps to align with God's plan for a fulfilling marriage, emphasizing that enjoyment and love are choices that require active decision-making. Drawing from their 47 years of marriage, they highlight the significance of dressing up for your marriage—not just externally, but internally by embodying qualities like love, kindness, and patience. The couple also encourages listeners to evaluate their internal "closet" of attitudes and behaviors, urging them to let go of negativity and embrace a loving mindset. As the holiday season approaches, they remind us to pack extra doses of love and kindness to navigate the hustle and bustle while strengthening our relationships.



Takeaways:

• Investing in your marriage is essential, and listening to this podcast is a great start.
• Enjoying life with your spouse requires a conscious decision to prioritize your relationship.
• Being 'all in' means committing to your spouse through all of life's challenges.
• Dressing up for your marriage involves both external appearances and internal attitudes of love.
• Letting go of negative behaviors is crucial for a healthy and happy marriage.
• Taking time for small gestures, like a 10-second kiss, can strengthen your bond.

This episode continues their 'Making Marriage Great' series with a focus on six key action steps rooted in the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 9:9, which urges couples to enjoy life together every day.

The Smiths dive into the first two action steps: making a conscious decision to enjoy married life and the necessity of saying goodbye to the overwhelming 'crazy busy' lifestyle. They candidly share their own experiences, illustrating how even the best relationships require ongoing effort, especially during hectic times like the holidays. The couple’s discussion is filled with relatable anecdotes, highlighting the everyday challenges that couples face and the decisions they make to prioritize their marriages. They emphasize that in the midst of life's distractions, intentionally choosing joy can significantly transform a couple's dynamic.

As they explore the next steps, they delve into the concepts of being 'all in' and dressing up for your marriage. This metaphor extends beyond physical appearance to encompass emotional and spiritual readiness within the relationship. The Smiths urge couples to foster an environment of kindness, patience, and understanding, which requires a proactive approach to love. The episode wraps up with actionable homework, guiding listeners to reflect on their commitments and behaviors, ultimately reinforcing the idea that a successful marriage is built on daily choices that prioritize love, connection, and mutual respect. Through their engaging discussion, Greg and Linda inspire couples to embrace the journey of marriage with enthusiasm and purpose.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.marriedandloveit.com

This episode focuses on the importance of managing time effectively to combat the "crazy busy" lifestyle that many couples face, which can lead to feeling disconnected in marriage. Greg and Linda Smith share insights on how to avoid the drift in relationships by prioritizing what truly matters and creating intentional time for one another. They emphasize the need for couples to coordinate their schedules and responsibilities, ensuring that housework and other tasks are shared to free up quality time together. The couple also discusses actionable steps, such as using daily commutes to listen to enriching podcasts or audiobooks, to deepen their connection. By being proactive and mindful about how they spend their time, couples can strengthen their marriages and enjoy a more fulfilling partnership.

In an enlightening episode of the Married and Love It Podcast, hosts Greg and Linda Smith navigate the often turbulent waters of marital life in a world filled with distractions and busyness. Drawing from their rich background in both marriage and ministry, they provide listeners with a blueprint for creating a balanced and fulfilling relationship. Central to their discussion is the theme of intentionality, particularly when it comes to prioritizing one’s marriage amidst the chaos of everyday life. The Smiths echo the sentiment found in Ecclesiastes 9:9, urging couples to relish their time together and enjoy life fully, thus laying the foundation for a vibrant partnership.

The couple shares a compelling analogy of being caught in an ocean current, illustrating how couples can drift apart without even realizing it. Through relatable examples, they emphasize the importance of awareness and proactive engagement in one’s marriage. The Smiths outline actionable steps that couples can take to combat the effects of a busy lifestyle, such as remembering their shared goals and working together as a unified team in managing household responsibilities. They highlight how sharing tasks not only alleviates stress but also creates more opportunities for quality time together, affirming that marriages thrive on mutual support and cooperation.

As the episode progresses, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their time management and to engage with their spouses on a deeper level. The Smiths conclude with practical exercises—including the '10-second kiss'—to foster connection and intimacy. These exercises serve as reminders that love is not just an emotion but an ongoing commitment that requires nurturing through consistent actions. The overall message of the episode is clear: a successful marriage is one that is intentionally cultivated, where both partners actively choose to invest time and effort into their relationship, leading to a joyful and fulfilling partnership that stands the test of time.

Takeaways:

• Investing time in your marriage through intentional communication and shared experiences is vital.
• Avoid the 'crazy busy' lifestyle by prioritizing and remembering what you truly want.
• Distractions can lead to a drift in your marriage, so be proactive in planning.
• Make time for date nights by coordinating schedules and sharing responsibilities at home.
• Set specific goals for your marriage and create action plans to achieve them.
• Utilize everyday moments, like commutes, to listen to marriage-focused podcasts or materials.

Takeaways:

• Investing time in your marriage through intentional communication and shared experiences is vital.
• Avoid the 'crazy busy' lifestyle by prioritizing and remembering what you truly want.
• Distractions can lead to a drift in your marriage, so be proactive in planning.
• Make time for date nights by coordinating schedules and sharing responsibilities at home.
• Set specific goals for your marriage and create action plans to achieve them....

This episode of the Married and Love It Podcast tackles the pressing issue of busyness in marriage and how it can lead couples to drift apart. Greg and Linda Smith emphasize the importance of recognizing the warning signs of being "crazy busy," which can create feelings of exhaustion and disconnection in relationships. They encourage listeners to evaluate their lives and identify areas where they may be overextending themselves, ultimately highlighting the need for balance and intentionality. Through personal anecdotes and biblical references, the hosts provide actionable steps for couples to prioritize their marriage and reconnect. Listeners are reminded that by making small adjustments and being mindful of their schedules, they can transform their busy lives into fulfilling and joyful experiences together.

The podcast presents a candid exploration of the challenges couples face as they juggle the demands of modern life. Greg and Linda Smith introduce the theme of busyness, a common struggle that many couples experience, especially during the fast-paced holiday season. They liken the feeling of being overwhelmed to being caught in a dizzying current at the beach, which can gradually pull couples away from each other. This metaphor serves to illustrate how easily partners can drift apart when they become too engrossed in their individual responsibilities and lose sight of their relationship.

The Smiths delve into the implications of this busyness, discussing how it can lead to emotional disconnection, dissatisfaction, and a sense of merely coexisting as roommates. They emphasize the need for couples to recognize the signs of drifting apart and to confront the reality that they may be sacrificing vital aspects of their marriage for the sake of convenience or societal expectations. The conversation encourages listeners to engage in self-reflection and prioritize what truly matters in their relationship, advocating for intentionality in scheduling quality time together and nurturing emotional intimacy.

As the episode progresses, the hosts provide actionable insights and practical steps to help couples reclaim their connection amidst the chaos. They stress the importance of setting non-negotiable times for each other, creating shared rituals, and communicating openly about their needs and desires. By doing so, couples can resist the currents of busyness and instead create a fulfilling partnership that thrives even in the busiest of seasons. This episode serves as a timely reminder that even in the midst of a hectic life, prioritizing one’s marriage is essential for long-term happiness and stability.

Takeaways:

• Investing time in your marriage through podcasts can help strengthen your relationship.
• Recognizing the signs of busyness in your marriage is crucial for maintaining connection.
• Balancing your busy life is essential to enjoy special moments with your spouse.
• Prioritizing your marriage over other commitments can lead to a happier relationship.
• Taking time to evaluate your marriage goals can help prevent drifting apart.
• Making intentional choices during busy holiday seasons can enhance your relationship significantly.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.marriedandloveit.com

This podcast episode focuses on the vital concept of enjoying your marriage and emphasizes that it's a decision couples must actively make. Greg and Linda Smith discuss the importance of setting high expectations for your relationship, rather than settling for mediocrity. They introduce practical steps to enhance marital enjoyment, including the idea of a "10-second kiss" to foster connection and intimacy. The episode highlights the need for couples to break out of the routine and inject fun and creativity into their relationship, encouraging listeners to change their perspectives and actions towards each other. By engaging in meaningful communication and shared experiences, couples can cultivate a vibrant and fulfilling marriage.

Takeaways:

• The Married and Love It Podcast emphasizes the importance of making a conscious decision to enjoy your marriage every day.
• Communication is vital for a successful marriage; it acts as lubrication for both intimacy and daily interactions.
• Focus on creative ways to keep the romance alive, such as spontaneous date nights or simple gestures like a kiss.
• The hosts share that addressing foundational principles in marriage will lead to better communication and intimacy later on.
• Action step number one is to actively decide to enjoy your marriage and not settle for less than God's best.
• The podcast encourages couples to engage in fun activities together to break the routine and foster connection.

The Married and Love It Podcast articulates an inspiring vision of marriage through the lens of Greg and Linda Smith’s rich experiences as a couple and ministry leaders. This episode is particularly focused on the transformative power of intentionality and action in nurturing a marital relationship. The Smiths introduce listeners to six key steps that align with God’s plan for marriage, emphasizing that couples should not settle for mediocrity but instead strive for an extraordinary partnership. The hosts encourage couples to cultivate a mindset of joy and fulfillment, sharing insights that highlight the necessity of viewing marriage as an evolving journey rather than a static state. Through their engaging dialogue, they invite listeners to recognize the potential for a vibrant marital life filled with love, adventure, and mutual respect.

A central theme in this episode is the vital role of communication, which Greg and Linda liken to lubrication that keeps the gears of love turning smoothly. They discuss how effective communication fosters both emotional and physical intimacy, encouraging couples to openly discuss their desires and needs. The hosts provide practical examples and relatable anecdotes, illustrating how small, everyday gestures can lead to a stronger connection. They also address the challenges couples face in maintaining a sense of romance, often succumbing to the roommate syndrome where partners feel more like acquaintances than lovers. By sharing their personal experiences, the Smiths deliver a heartfelt reminder that enjoyment in marriage requires effort, creativity, and a willingness to prioritize one another.

Listeners are prompted to reflect on their marital dynamics and consider how they can infuse their relationship with new energy and excitement. The Smiths offer actionable homework assignments designed to inspire couples to take initiative in their marriages, whether through simple acts of affection or more adventurous outings. They stress the importance of being intentional about creating enjoyable experiences together, urging listeners to engage in fun conversations that strengthen their bond. As the episode draws to a close, the Smiths reaffirm the idea that with God’s guidance, couples can navigate the complexities of life and emerge with a flourishing relationship. Their message is clear: by choosing to invest in each other and actively pursue enjoyment, couples can...

This podcast episode focuses on the crucial theme of "Better You, Better Marriage," emphasizing the importance of personal growth and self-improvement in nurturing a healthy relationship. Hosts Greg and Linda Smith share insights on how working on oneself can lead to a more fulfilling marriage, rather than attempting to change one's spouse. They introduce ten commitment keys designed to help couples enhance their relationships, starting with being open, teachable, and honest, while also highlighting the significance of forgiveness and vulnerability. The discussion includes biblical references and personal anecdotes, reinforcing the idea that a strong marriage is built on mutual support and understanding. By the end of the episode, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own behaviors and commit to being the best partners they can be.

Throughout the episode, Greg and Linda incorporate biblical references, illustrating how scripture can guide couples in their journey toward betterment. They encourage listeners to engage in prayer, asking God to reveal areas in their lives that need growth. This spiritual dimension adds depth to the conversation, reinforcing the idea that seeking divine guidance is fundamental to personal and relational transformation. The hosts also tackle the often difficult subjects of forgiveness and vulnerability, explaining how these qualities can foster deeper emotional connections and promote healing within the marriage. Their candid discussions about the challenges of opening up and the fear of rejection resonate with many listeners, making the content relatable and impactful.

By the end of the episode, listeners are equipped with actionable steps to enhance their relationships. The Smiths encourage couples to practice small gestures of affection, such as the 'ten-second kiss,' which serves as a daily reminder of love and connection. They also stress the importance of letting go of past hurts, emphasizing that holding onto grievances can hinder growth and joy in the marriage. The episode concludes with a call for couples to actively choose love as a daily decision, setting a positive tone for their future together. Overall, this podcast episode not only provides practical advice but also inspires couples to embark on a journey of self-discovery and mutual support, ultimately leading to a richer, more fulfilling marriage.

Takeaways:

• Investing time in your marriage through education can lead to a stronger relationship.
• Focusing on personal improvement rather than trying to change your spouse is essential.
• The process of forgiveness is crucial in keeping your marriage free from baggage.
• Being vulnerable with your spouse opens the door to deeper connection and understanding.
• Letting go of past grievances is necessary for moving forward in your marriage.
• Always maintain a vision for the future of your marriage and personal growth.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.marriedandloveit.com
• marriedandloveit1977@gmail.com

This podcast episode focuses on the crucial theme of "Better You, Better Marriage," emphasizing that personal improvement directly enhances the quality of your marriage. Hosts Greg and Linda Smith share their insights on the importance of individual growth and self-awareness in fostering a stronger partnership. They discuss the necessity of preventive maintenance for marriages, likening it to tending to a garden that requires regular care to thrive. The episode also delves into ten key commitments that individuals can adopt to cultivate a healthier relationship, such as being open, teachable, and honest. Throughout the conversation, they offer relatable anecdotes and practical advice, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own behaviors and attitudes to improve their marriages.

This episode serves as a continuation of their series on Making Marriage Great, with a focus on the theme of 'Better You, Better Marriage'. Through personal anecdotes and relatable examples, the Smiths explore how neglecting personal growth can lead to marital challenges, reinforcing the idea that a thriving relationship is built on the foundation of two individuals striving to be their best selves.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own behaviors and attitudes within the context of their marriage. The discussion touches on the necessity of being open and honest with oneself and one’s spouse, as well as the vital role of forgiveness in maintaining a healthy relationship. The couple shares practical advice, including the importance of regular communication and the courage to address difficult topics, as demonstrated by a memorable hotel story that underscores the value of prioritizing meaningful conversations over fleeting desires. Ultimately, the episode advocates for intentional actions that nurture both individual and collective growth, leaving the audience with actionable insights to implement in their own relationships.

Takeaways:

• Investing time in your marriage is crucial for maintaining a strong and loving relationship.
• Individual personal growth directly contributes to the improvement of your marriage as a whole.
• Preventive maintenance in marriage, like regular communication, helps avoid future conflicts and issues.
• Being open, honest, and teachable are essential qualities for fostering a healthy marriage.
• Forgiveness is vital for healing and moving forward in any relationship, including marriage.
• Regularly check in with your spouse to ensure both partners feel heard and valued.
• Scripture references. Matthew 7:3-5; Psalms 139:23-24; Ezekiel 36-26

This podcast episode emphasizes the importance of putting your marriage into God's hands to strengthen your relationship and navigate challenges effectively. Greg and Linda Smith, who have over 46 years of experience in marriage and ministry, share insights on how involving God in your marriage can lead to transformation and growth. They discuss the significance of abiding in the vine, drawing strength and guidance from scripture, and the necessity of intentional actions to cultivate a thriving partnership. The episode covers practical tips on prayer, communication, and maintaining a positive outlook amidst life's storms, encouraging couples to actively work on their relationship. Ultimately, the Smiths inspire listeners to embrace the God factor in their marriages, fostering a loving environment that can positively impact their families and communities.

https://youtu.be/-16khN_AdSU Gary Dunham- Happy Family

SCRIPTURES -John 15:5&7, Romans 10:17, Jeremiah 29:11 John 10:10, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Ephesians 3:20

Greg and Linda Smith, seasoned marriage mentors with over 46 years of experience, delve into the profound theme of placing one’s marriage in God’s hands in this enlightening discussion. They emphasize the importance of involving God in every aspect of marriage, citing their personal journey through relationship challenges, financial strains, and health issues. The couple shares their belief that by adhering to Christian principles and actively engaging in prayer, couples can navigate the complexities of marriage with grace and resilience. The podcast discusses the concept of ‘abiding in the vine’ as described in John 15:7, where the Smiths illustrate how this spiritual connection fosters growth and strength within a relationship. They encourage couples to pray together and engage with God’s word, asserting that faith is nurtured through hearing and applying biblical teachings, which in turn empowers couples to face life’s challenges together.

Through heartfelt anecdotes, Greg recounts crucial moments in their marriage that required them to lean on their faith, highlighting the transformative power of prayer and mutual support. Linda amplifies this sentiment, pointing out the necessity of intentional actions in nurturing a healthy marriage. The couple provides practical advice for couples to avoid the pitfalls of negativity and external influences that can undermine their relationship. They stress the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive voices and engaging in positive, faith-driven discussions. By sharing their own struggles and triumphs, the Smiths aim to inspire listeners to cultivate their marriages actively and intentionally, ensuring they can declare, 'we are married and love it.'

Takeaways:

• Greg and Linda Smith emphasize the importance of putting your marriage in God's hands for lasting success.
• The couple shares their personal journey through struggles, highlighting the necessity of faith and prayer.
• Abiding in the vine, or staying connected to God, is crucial for marital growth and strength.
• Effective communication and prayer together can help couples navigate challenges and improve relationships.
• The importance of intentional effort in marriage; great marriages don't just happen by chance.
• Maintaining a positive attitude

Greg and Linda Smith share their heartfelt journey of overcoming challenges in their marriage, emphasizing that a successful relationship requires continuous effort and commitment. After nearly separating early in their marriage, they found strength in applying Christian principles and prioritizing their relationship. The episode focuses on the importance of making marriage a priority, highlighting practical applications of biblical teachings to improve communication and intimacy. They invite couples to engage in spontaneous, meaningful moments together, like a simple walk in the rain, to strengthen their connection. The Smiths encourage listeners to seek God’s guidance in their marriages, reinforcing that with faith and effort, every couple can aspire to be "married and love it."

Scripture references -Joshua 1:8, Proverbs 15:1; Proverbs 5:18-19; Philippians 4:13; Matthew 18:19; Matthew 11:28-30; John 15:7

Greg and Linda Smith, a couple with over 46 years of marriage, share their personal journey and the lessons they've learned in their podcast, Married and Love It. They emphasize the importance of maintaining a loving relationship through challenges such as health issues, financial stress, and near separation. The Smiths believe that all marriages can thrive with commitment and the right tools, which they aim to provide through discussions on various topics such as communication, intimacy, and conflict resolution. Their teachings are grounded in Christian principles, and they encourage couples to prioritize their marriage by actively working on it rather than passively allowing it to deteriorate.

The podcast delves into practical applications of scripture that can guide couples in their daily lives. For instance, the Smiths reference Proverbs 15:1, which highlights the power of gentle communication in diffusing conflict. They explore the concept of taking a proactive approach to relationship-building, suggesting that if couples are not actively nurturing their bond, they may be inadvertently working towards a separation. The episode encourages listeners to reflect on their own marriages and consider how they can introduce more intentionality into their interactions, such as through daily expressions of affection or spontaneous shared experiences.

As the Smiths navigate through their experiences, they remind listeners of the importance of divine guidance in marriage. They discuss the God factor—how integrating faith into their relationship has provided them with strength and hope during difficult times. By inviting God into their union, they have found a source of power that has helped them overcome obstacles and has enriched their lives together. The episode concludes with a call to action for couples to engage in prayer together, reinforcing the idea that a shared spiritual journey can enhance intimacy and strengthen their bond. The Smiths leave listeners with practical homework: to commit to a daily ten-second kiss, which serves as a simple yet profound way to connect amidst the busyness of life.

Takeaways:

• Greg and Linda Smith emphasize that every couple should strive to say, 'We are married and love it' regardless of their current situation.
• The couple shares their personal experiences of overcoming relationship challenges, including a near separation after eight years of marriage.
• Practical applications of biblical principles can significantly enhance communication and intimacy within a marriage.
• Regularly taking time for spontaneous, fun activities as a couple is essential for nurturing love and connection.
• The Smiths encourage couples to actively work on their marriage, stating that neglecting it can lead to divorce.
• A strong marriage requires both partners to pray together and agree on important matters, inviting God into their relationship.