Today Karen and Emily dive into the dynamics of marriage and parenting by reminding us that we are not our husband's Holy Spirit! Karen shares her own story about letting go of the urge to control her husband's spiritual journey and offers practical wisdom for managing the emotional ups and downs that come with doing life together. Lean in for practical advice about navigating differences with your spouse, remembering that it is God who ultimately guides our faith journey!

Episode Recap:

1:49 We diminish God’s power when we try to control our husbands

6:10 How do I let go of my husband’s lack of a quiet time? 

9:05 Allow the Holy Spirit to do its job, your job is to love and respect your husband

10:15 My husband is harsh when he disciplines, what do I do? 

14:10 How can I get my husband to take more initiative and help me more?

17:30 Be specific when you ask for help

18:45 My husband’s moodiness brings me down! 

Scripture for Reflection:

1 Corinthians 3: 6-7 (NIV): "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow."

Questions for Discussion:

1. Can you relate to the feeling of wanting to control your husband's spiritual walk? When has this happened in your own marriage, and how have you handled it?
2. How do you and your spouse parent differently? What strengths does your husband’s style bring to the family? What strengths does your style bring? Do you think you make a good team or is there a lack of balance?
3. Do you ever struggle with resentment or feeling overwhelmed in your role as a wife and mother? What steps have you taken to address these feelings, and how did your husband respond?
4. When your husband is in a "blue mood," how do you typically react? Have you found any strategies that help both of you during those times, and how do you maintain your own emotional balance?
5. Have you or your husband used this idea of space to deescalate tension in your relationship? Was it effective?

Resources:

• Looking for a summer study? Check out Peace for the Anxious Mom: https://boaw.teachable.com/p/peace-for-the-anxious-mom
• Sign up for Soar at Sea: https://www.soaratsea.com