A fashion-conscious crowd waits to cross a busy street during a downpour. Their umbrellas dance against the backdrop of fog-draped buildings like a mosaic of mushrooms in a misty forest. Then, out of nowhere, a cab splashes through a puddle, drenching the unsuspecting group. Similar to merciless cab drivers in rainstorms, life sometimes brings a torrent of challenges into a marriage—a job loss, depression, debilitating sickness, or worse. Is it possible to minimize the stress of gloomy surprises? Here are two strategies couples can use to prepare for rainy days in marriage.
Learn from the Ant
Proverbs 30:25 describes ants as “creatures of little strength, yet they store up their food in the summer.” Like the far-sighted ant, astute couples anticipate hazards to marital harmony and prepare accordingly. Try this simple exercise, though it may seem awkward at first.
- Discuss undesirable situations that could occur in your marriage or family
- Seek the Lord’s wisdom as you review your list (James 1:5)
- Create a plan of action for each scenario
While many of your what-ifs may never come to pass, planning for unfavorable events creates an emotional insurance policy against the unexpected.
Watch for Early Warnings
People who live in storm-prone regions spring into action when tornado sirens crescendo to ear-piercing decibels. The ominous warning is disturbing for some people and annoying to others, yet it helps save lives. In marriage, signs of trouble may not be as jolting as an alarm. Often, spouses conceal their inner struggles from their partners for months or years. Can you tell when things are not quite right with your spouse? Attentive couples do the following for each other:
- Learn intimate details about tendencies, ambitions, likes, and dislikes
- Recognize subtle changes in behavior, appetite, and habits
- Discuss observations without accusations
- Pray with and for one another daily
Proverbs 22:3 advises, “The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” Wise couples can avoid needless suffering when they address marital threats before they arrive or before circumstances worsen.
All marriages experience stormy weather from time to time. What separates strong unions from struggling ones is the level of preparedness. Only God knows your marriage forecast. So, seek His guidance when life is sunny, and when storm clouds come, you won’t get caught without an umbrella.
