Want a marriage that thrives, not just survives? Join Brian Mayer from Love How Deep as he dives into 7 science-backed strategies to strengthen your relationship! Drawing from the renowned research of Dr. John Gottman, this episode reveals the secrets to building a "Sound Relationship House." Learn how to:

• Build Love Maps: Truly know and understand your partner on a deep level.
• Share Fondness & Admiration: Express appreciation and affection in ways that resonate.
• Turn Towards: Respond positively to your partner's bids for connection.
• Manage Conflict: Navigate disagreements constructively and avoid the "Four Horsemen" that can destroy your relationship.
• Support Each Other's Goals: Foster open communication about individual dreams and aspirations.
• Create Shared Meaning: Align on core values and life philosophies.
• Cultivate Trust & Commitment: The essential foundation for a lasting partnership.

Brian also shares practical tips and insights on improving communication, handling conflict, and reigniting the spark in your marriage. Whether you're just starting out or have been married for years, this episode is packed with valuable advice to help you build a stronger, more fulfilling relationship.

Ready to take your marriage to the next level? Claim your FREE guide, "10 Practical Communication Strategies," to start improving your communication today! Visit:

https://love-how-deep.kit.com/practical-communication-strategies

Connect with Love How Deep:

• Visit our website: www.lovehowdeep.com

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Episode Summary:

When was the last time you and your spouse had a truly meaningful conversation? In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to get stuck in surface-level exchanges. On this episode of Love How Deep, Brian and Heather Mayer share 10 key questions designed to spark deep, meaningful conversations and revitalize your marriage. These questions will help you reconnect, rediscover each other, and strengthen your bond.

In this episode, you'll discover:

Brian and Heather model how to ask and answer these questions, sharing personal anecdotes and creating a vulnerable and relatable atmosphere. The 10 questions explored are:

1. What is a favorite memory you cherish of us?
2. If we could relive one day together, which would it be?
3. What's a dream you have for our future together?
4. What's something you wish I knew about you right now?
5. What's a small thing I do that makes you feel loved?
6. If you could change one thing about how we communicate, what would it be?
7. What's a way we can make more time for each other?
8. What's something new you'd like to try together?
9. How do you feel God is working in our marriage right now?
10. What is one thing you're grateful for about me today?

Key Takeaways:

• Meaningful conversation is crucial for a thriving marriage.
• Asking intentional questions can lead to deeper connection and intimacy.
• Sharing memories, dreams, and vulnerabilities strengthens your bond.
• Regularly checking in with each other helps maintain a strong and healthy relationship.
• Even small changes, like setting aside dedicated time together, can make a big difference.

Actionable Steps:

• Schedule a date night (or "date time"): Set aside dedicated time to connect with your spouse without distractions.
• Choose a few questions: Don't feel pressured to ask all 10 at once. Start with a few that resonate with you and your spouse.
• Listen actively and respond with empathy: Focus on truly understanding your spouse's perspective.
• Be vulnerable and share openly: Create a safe space for honest and authentic communication.
• Follow up: Continue the conversation beyond the initial discussion.

Resources:

• Free Resource: Download our free printable with all 10 questions to use in your own marriage: [Link to Free Resource - If available]

Special Offer:

Forgiveness Online Course: Only $19!

Are you and your spouse struggling with past hurts, betrayals, or unresolved conflict? Our Forgiveness Online Course provides practical tools, biblical insights, and proven strategies to help you navigate the journey of forgiveness and healing. This course will help you:

• Understand the power of forgiveness
• Learn practical steps to forgive and be forgiven
• Break free from resentment and bitterness
• Rebuild trust and intimacy in your relationship

For a limited time, get our Forgiveness Online Course for only $19! Visit www.lovehowdeep.com/forgiveness [invalid URL removed] [invalid URL removed] [invalid URL removed] [invalid URL removed] [invalid URL removed] and use code fg19 at checkout.

Connect with Us:

We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts on this episode and connect with us on social media:

• Instagram: @lovehowdeepmarriage
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/lovehowdeep
• Website: lovehowdeep.com

Subscribe to the Love How Deep Podcast:

Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to the Love How Deep podcast wherever you listen to podcasts:

• Search "Love How Deep" on your favorite podcast app.

Thank you for listening!

Welcome to the Love How Deep Podcast with Brian and Heather Mayer

"Love conquers all," "Happy wife, happy life," "Opposites attract"—we've all heard these marriage cliches. But are they true nuggets of wisdom, or harmful myths that set unrealistic expectations? In this episode of Love How Deep, Brian and Heather Mayer dive into some common marriage cliches, separating fact from fiction and offering practical, biblical advice for building a stronger, more fulfilling relationship.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• "Love means never having to say you're sorry": We debunk this myth and discuss the importance of apologies and forgiveness in a healthy marriage.
• "Happy wife, happy life": We explore the dangers of a one-sided approach to marriage and emphasize the importance of mutual respect and consideration.
• "Only opposites attract": We examine the role of similarities and differences in attraction and long-term compatibility.
• "Marriage is a 50/50 partnership": We challenge this common notion and explain why giving 100% is crucial, even when it's not reciprocated.
• "You complete me": We discuss the importance of individual wholeness and how God, not our spouse, is the ultimate source of fulfillment.
• "Never go to bed angry": We offer a balanced perspective on conflict resolution and the importance of addressing issues constructively.
• "The honeymoon phase doesn't last": We explore how to maintain romance and passion throughout the different seasons of marriage.
• "Love conquers all": We clarify the true meaning of love as an action and its power to overcome challenges when combined with effort and commitment.
• "Marriage is a ball and chain": We challenge this negative view and highlight the joys and benefits of a healthy, fulfilling marriage.
• "Happy couples never fight": We debunk this myth and explain that conflict is normal and can even strengthen a relationship when handled constructively.

Key Scripture:

• James 5:16
• Ephesians 5:25
• Amos 3:3
• Philippians 2:3-4
• Colossians 2:10
• Ephesians 4:26
• Song of Solomon 2:16
• 1 Corinthians 13:7
• Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
• Proverbs 15:1

Actionable Steps:

• Reflect on your own beliefs: Consider which marriage cliches you've internalized and how they might be affecting your relationship.
• Communicate openly: Discuss these myths with your spouse and share your perspectives.
• Focus on action: Remember that love is a verb. Show your love through actions of service, kindness, and understanding.
• Seek godly counsel: If you're facing significant challenges in your marriage, seek guidance from a trusted pastor, counselor, or mentor.

Resources:

• (Optional) Link to any related blog posts, articles, or resources on your website.

Special Offer:

Forgiveness Online Course: Only $19!

Are you and your spouse struggling with past hurts, betrayals, or unresolved conflict? Our Forgiveness Online Course provides practical tools, biblical insights, and proven strategies to help you navigate the journey of forgiveness and healing. This course will help you:

• Understand the power of forgiveness
• Learn practical steps to forgive and be forgiven
• Break free from resentment and bitterness
• Rebuild trust and intimacy in your relationship

For a limited time, get our Forgiveness Online Course for only $19! Visit www.lovehowdeep.com/forgiveness and use code fg19 at checkout.

Connect with Us:

We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts on this episode and connect with us on social media:

• Instagram: @lovehowdeepmarriage
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/lovehowdeep
• Website: www.lovehowdeep.com

Subscribe to the Love How Deep Podcast:

Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to the Love How Deep podcast wherever you listen to podcasts:

• Search "Love How Deep" on your favorite podcast app.

Thank you for listening!

Welcome to the Love How Deep Podcast!

Do you ever feel like you and your spouse are just skimming the surface in your conversations? Like you're not truly connecting on a deeper level? You're not alone.

In this episode of Love How Deep, Brian and Heather Mayer explore the 5 Levels of Communication, providing practical tools and biblical wisdom to help you cultivate true intimacy in your marriage.

We dive into each level, from casual greetings to sharing your deepest dreams, explaining why each one is important and how to move through them effectively.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Cliche Conversation: Why these surface-level exchanges are still important and how to make them more meaningful.
• Facts: How to go beyond just sharing logistics and connect on an emotional level.
• Opinions: How to navigate differing viewpoints with grace, understanding, and respect.
• Feelings: The vital importance of creating a safe space for vulnerability and emotional connection.
• Peak Communication: Reaching the highest level of connection by sharing your deepest dreams, visions, and vulnerabilities.

Brian and Heather share personal stories, practical tips, and powerful scripture to illustrate these principles and help you transform your communication.

Key Scripture:

• Proverbs 15:23
• Luke 10:38-42
• Ephesians 4:2-3
• Psalm 34:18
• Genesis 2:24
• Colossians 4:6

Actionable Steps:

• Be Intentional: In your everyday conversations, strive to be more present and genuinely interested in what your spouse has to say.
• Listen Actively: Practice active listening by giving your full attention, making eye contact, and asking clarifying questions.
• Create a Safe Space: Encourage vulnerability by responding with empathy and understanding, even when you disagree.
• Schedule Dedicated Time: Set aside regular time for meaningful conversations, free from distractions.
• Start Small: Begin by focusing on one or two levels of communication and gradually work your way up.

Resources:

• Free Resource (Optional): If you created a downloadable guide or worksheet related to the 5 levels, link to it here. For example: [Link to Free 5 Levels of Communication Guide]

Special Offer:

Forgiveness Online Course: Only $19!

Are you and your spouse struggling with past hurts, betrayals, or unresolved conflict? Our Forgiveness Online Course provides practical tools, biblical insights, and proven strategies to help you navigate the journey of forgiveness and healing. This course will help you:

• Understand the power of forgiveness
• Learn practical steps to forgive and be forgiven
• Break free from resentment and bitterness
• Rebuild trust and intimacy in your relationship

For a limited time, get our Forgiveness Online Course for only $19! Visit www.lovehowdeep.com/forgiveness and use code fg19 at checkout.

Connect with Us:

We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts on this episode and connect with us on social media:

• Instagram: @lovehowdeepmarriage
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/lovehowdeep
• Website: www.lovehowdeep.com

Subscribe to the Love How Deep Podcast:

Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to the Love How Deep podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

• Search "Love How Deep" on your favorite podcast app.

Thank you for listening!

Strengthening Your Marriage and Overcoming Rejection with Dr. Gary Lawrence

In this podcast episode, Brian and Heather Mayer discuss the complexities of marriage and overcoming the impact of past rejection with special guest Dr. Gary Lawrence. Dr. Lawrence, a seasoned counselor and best-selling author of the book 'Rejection Junkies,' shares his extensive experience in helping couples strengthen their marriages and their connection to God.

The discussion explores the formation of emotional patterns by age eight, the consequences of past rejection on marital relationships, and the importance of understanding and addressing these underlying issues. Dr. Lawrence provides insightful advice on identifying, isolating, and eliminating emotional problems, offering practical tools for couples to rebuild their lives and nurture a healthy, loving relationship.

The episode also tackles misconceptions about performance-based acceptance in Christian life and emphasizes the role of grace. Through personal anecdotes and professional wisdom, Dr. Lawrence illustrates how to overcome bitterness and rejection, making this a valuable conversation for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of emotional health in marriage.

Please check out Dr. G's website at https://rejectionjunkies.com/ where you will find his bestselling book called "Rejection Junkies."

Podcast Outline: What Mary and Joseph Teach Us About Marriage

• "How does the story of Joseph, Mary, and the birth of Jesus shine a light on our marriages today? Their journey teaches us about trust, obedience, worship, support, and faith in the face of the unknown."

• Overview: This episode explores the Christmas story from a fresh perspective, drawing lessons for couples to apply to their relationships.

2. Theme 1: OBEDIENCE to God’s Will and Stepping Out in FAITH

• Scriptural References:

• • Luke 1:26-38: Mary’s obedience to follow God’s will, saying, “May your word to me be fulfilled,” despite not fully understanding how it would unfold. It’s impossible. (I am not worthy).

  • Matthew 1:18-25: Joseph’s obedience after God’s message in a dream, trusting Mary’s story and God’s plan. This is not allowed. (We will be despised).

• Marriage Application:

• • Obedience in marriage means aligning your relationship with God’s will, even when the path is unclear.

  • Like Joseph and Mary, couples can choose obedience by supporting one another and walking in faith, even in the face of uncertainty.

• Discussion Prompt: How can couples encourage one another to hear and follow God’s voice?

3. Theme 2: TRUSTING God and SUPPORTING Each Other (The Journey – Nazareth, Bethlehem, Egypt, Nazareth)

• Scriptural References:

• • Luke 2:1-7: Trust in God to guide them safely during Mary’s pregnancy.

  • Matthew 2:13-15: Trust in God’s guidance as Joseph obeys the dream to flee to Egypt, stepping into the unknown to protect his family. Angel of the Lord continues to come to Joseph – spiritual leadership.

• Marriage Application:

• • Marriage thrives when both partners trust God and trust each other to hear from Him.

  • Trusting God involves believing He will care for your family, even when you can’t see the full picture.

  • A supportive partnership strengthens a marriage during life’s challenges.

  • Couples are called to persist together, even when the way forward seems impossible.

• Discussion Prompt:

• • What steps can couples take to deepen their trust in God and each other?

  • What are some practical ways to support your spouse during a challenging season?

4. Theme 3: Worship and Gratitude in the Midst of Trials

• Scriptural References:

• • Luke 1:46-56: Mary’s song of worship (The Magnificat) praises God’s faithfulness even as she faces the uncertainty of her role in His plan. She is still in a place where this has not completely unfolded yet (praise in the midst of trials! (while she was with Elizabeth).

  • Luke 2:19: Mary treasured and pondered all the events surrounding Jesus’ birth, seeing the unfolding of God’s vision.

• Marriage Application:

• • Worship during trials brings perspective and strength to a marriage.

  • Gratitude shifts focus from the challenges to God’s blessings and faithfulness.

• Discussion Prompt: How can couples create moments of worship and gratitude, even in difficult seasons?

7. Practical Takeaways for Marriage

• Lesson 1: OBEDIENCE to God’s will builds trust and unity. This also includes FAITH

• Lesson 2: TRUST God and your spouse to hear from Him, especially during difficult times. This also means SUPPORTING each other in the midst of challenges.

• Lesson 3: WORSHIP together as an act of gratitude, even in trials.

• Please share this episode and subscribe to our podcast through:

• • Apple Podcasts

  • YouTube www.youtube.com/@lovehowdeep

9. Closing

• Thank you for joining and encourage them to tune in next week for more biblical marriage insights.