What does it really look like to leave your family and cleave to your spouse? In this episode of The Marriage Huddle, Dave and Jaclyn open up about the struggles and breakthroughs of prioritizing their marriage over old patterns and expectations. From navigating parents’ involvement to creating a cocoon for their relationship, they share the moments that tested their commitment—and the steps that brought resurrection to a marriage on the brink.

DQ1: In what ways might your family of origin’s expectations or traditions be unintentionally shaping your marriage? How can you identify where “leaving and cleaving” might cause division or conflict?

DQ2: Reflect on a time when external influences—parents, friends, or others—interfered with your marriage decisions. How could you have handled it differently?

DQ3: What are some practical ways you and your spouse can create intentional “cocoon” time to focus on your relationship without outside distractions? How could that be beneficial?

DQ4: How do you currently navigate loyalty between your spouse and your extended families? How does your spouse feel in relation to the loyalty you may hold for your own family?

DQ5: Are there any recurring patterns of conflict in your marriage that could be tied to old family dynamics?

DQ6: How could prioritizing your spouse above all others (except God) help develop unity, respect, and mutual submission?

DQ7: If one or both of you have felt secondary in your marriage, what steps can you take to rebuild trust, closeness, or security?

DQ8: As a couple, what is one actionable way you can “leave and cleave” this week—whether in conversation, decision-making, or boundary-setting?