What does it look like to practice biblical intimacy skills when you’re married to an addict? In this episode, I talk with Ashley, a homeschooling mom who shares her honest journey of learning to fight for peace in the middle of hard circumstances. You’ll hear how daily self-care, journaling, and letting go of control have shifted her marriage and her heart—bringing her back to dignity, hope, and even joy.

What we cover

• Why “fighting for peace” became Ashley’s daily practice—and how skills made it possible

• How she journals daily wins and uses the Six Intimacy Skills to stay grounded

• The real cost of not holding her tongue (and the reward of choosing silence wisely)

• Why self-care really is the answer—especially when her husband’s choices trigger anxiety

• Collecting evidence for Spouse-Fulfilling Prophecies to combat fear and resentment

• Learning to release control in small decisions as practice for trusting in bigger ones

• Building safe, supportive friendships that fuel her ability to show up differently at home

• A story of choosing dignity in the moment—and being surprised by her husband’s care

Listener takeaways

• Use a 6-line daily journal: wins, self-care, and one example of each skill.

• On overwhelming days, pick one spoke of the wheel—self-care is often the gateway.

• Review your Spouse-Fulfilling Prophecies to reset your perspective when fear rises.

• Build routines and support (friends, childcare, planned self-care) for your hardest times.

• Practice releasing control in small household choices to rebuild trust step by step.

Quotes to remember

• “Self-care is the answer. What’s the question?”

• “Even if the first step is the same as it’s always been, I can change the next step of the dance.”

• “Let him wrestle with himself—my job is to stay on my paper with dignity.”

If this episode blessed you…
Inside Strength & Dignity, I help women walk out these biblical skills with ongoing support and encouragement. If you’re married to an addict—or just facing really painful circumstances—you don’t have to do this alone. With practical tools, spiritual depth, and a sisterhood around you, peace and dignity really are possible.

👉 Join the Strength & Dignity waitlist here