3 ways to bring hope into your marriage

Can you believe Advent is already here? This season is such a beautiful time to slow down, reflect, and prepare our hearts for Christmas. And as we light that first candle of Advent this week, we’re reminded of its theme—hope—something we can all use a little more of, especially in our marriages.

Hope is all about believing that the best is yet to come, even if things feel messy or challenging right now. In marriage, hope gives us the strength to hold on when life gets tough, to believe in each other, and to trust that with God’s help, things can always get better.

Just like how the season of Advent invites us to prepare for the joy of Christmas, hope invites us to invest in our relationship together, even in the small ways. It reminds us that love is a journey, and the little things we do today—kind words, forgiving moments, or even just laughing together—are seeds of something beautiful for the future.

Here are a few ideas to bring hope into your marriage this week:

1. Pray Together: Even if it’s just a quick moment before bed, say a prayer for your relationship. Ask God to fill your hearts with hope and help you grow closer to Him and each other.
2. Look Back and Look Forward: Take 5 minutes to share with each other something you’re thankful for from your journey together so far and one thing you’re looking forward to. Dreaming about the future is such a great way to feel connected!
3. Light a Candle Together: If you have an Advent wreath, let that first candle remind you of the hope you’re building together. Let its light be a little reminder that God is working in your relationship, even in ways you can’t see yet.

Advent is a season of anticipation and renewal, and it’s the perfect time to bring a little extra hope into your marriage. Remember, you’re not walking this journey alone—God is with you every step of the way.

Sending lots of love and blessings your way this Advent!

Together for marriage,

Mike and Holly