We all have one, but how we share it with others either builds up or tears down marriage. What is it?

A story.

We love to get to know new couples and hear of their journey from their beginning to the present. Sometimes it’s brief and predictable, but more times than not it’s long and complicated. It takes time to get to know someone on this level, but it’s worth it.

For those who know Jesus the story has even more depth. Full of lessons learned and character forged for one purpose, to become more like Christ for God‘s glory.

It is helpful to remember not only do we belong to each other, but we are His. our love is triple braided cord that isn’t easily broken, as Ecclesiastes 4:12 says.

But we can live our lives frayed if we don’t allow the hard times to mold and shape us.

We have had our share of hardship these past 2 years. Many of which you all have heard of and prayed about with us. Thank you doesn’t begin to express our gratitude.

This is our story and it is still being written one painful stroke at a time. We don’t know where it will all go, but we do know the ending. This is what gives us hope.

What part of your story is being written today? Is it a good part where you can’t wait to see what happens next? Or is it so painful you’d rather not read the next line?

Know that in either scenario you are being guided by a loving Heavenly Father, the Author and Perfecter of your faith. When He is finished we will gasp at the amazing story He has completed. And as we share it with others we are amazed at how He brought us through.

Likewise, when couples openly share with us the details of their story—the good and the bad—we learn from what they’ve experienced and our friendship deepens.

Who are you currently getting to know on this level? We encourage you to seek couples—those older than you and younger, as well as those in your current season. We can learn so much by reading the stories of others. This is where lasting friendships are forged and marriages are built to endure no matter the circumstances.

We need friends for our marriage to grow!