Tying a Tight Knot

In my mind's eye, I can still see a cat poster my grandmother had hanging on her utility room wall. The bewildered kitten was hanging on a rope, and the caption read, "When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on." I only recently learned that those words are often attributed to Franklin Delano Roosevelt, a man who understood better than most the importance of hanging on in the middle of challenging circumstances. 

Marriage is one of the most challenging relationships we will ever experience. When we "tie the knot," we believe our love will last forever. But marriage is far from easy. It requires sacrifice, unselfishness, kindness, and love -- actions and attitudes that aren't necessarily easy to carry out when we're tired and stressed out.

Communication is key, which is the subject of my recent article, "Confront conflict with better communication in first year of marriage."

You can read more about premarital counseling and what the Bible says about marriage in The Alabama Baptist newspaper. 

Christian marriages are thriving despite the challenges, so if you're struggling, hang on to the knot you've tied. Don't be afraid to seek help from the experts and to open up to your friends. 

Resources:
Pathways Professional Counseling
Hope for the Heart ministries