When my husband and I became empty nesters, we really started seeing how different we are when it comes to hobbies. We struggled to find activities we’d both like, almost always coming away with nothing we could agree on. Even movies and tv shows wreaked dissension.
Then my husband started participating in skeet shooting competitions and really got into it. Because my son had been on the skeet shooting team in high school, I was familiar with how enjoyable a sport it was to watch. After all, it’s not hard to ride in a golf cart from station to station and click the button that throws the target. Even though I can’t shoot anymore (I used to do it some when I was younger but now my shoulder just can’t handle the kick!) I can enjoy being with John as he gets to shoot while I encourage him along the way. It’s a win-win for both of us and we’ve even tailored a few vacations around skeet shooting.
He’s also given in to doing a little antique shopping with me. So, we’ve both found a way to compromise.
Every marriage goes through seasons—some filled with laughter and connection, and others that feel dry, distant, or lonely. Maybe you’ve found yourself wondering, “What happened to us? Why can’t we enjoy doing things together like we used to?” The feelings you once had faded, and no matter how hard you try, it feels like you’re just going through the motions.
If that sounds familiar, you are not alone.
Dan and Danielle Macaulay, founders of MarriedUp.net and authors of The Triangle Effect, talk about what to do when love feels more like effort than emotion—and how inviting God into the center of your relationship can renew your faith, your hope, and your heart for each other.
If your marriage feels stuck, strained, or spiritually disconnected, this honest and encouraging conversation will remind you: your story isn’t over, and God can still bring beauty out of what feels broken. But before we get started, I just wanted to warn you that we do talk about intimacy some in this episode so you may not want little ears around.
Listen to When Feelings Fade: Hope for Your Marriage Through Everyday Moments with Dan & Danielle Macaulay
Watch on YouTube When Feelings Fade: Hope for Your Marriage Through Everyday Moments with Dan & Danielle Macaulay
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