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