“Counting trouble a thing of joy does not require that we feel happy about our difficulties but that we understand that ultimately and finally God’s good hand will make the experience worthy of joyful praise and thanksgiving. This mental outlook keeps our focus not on the moment of pain but on the culmination of the process.”

“A Christian marriage involves more than the blending of two people. It includes a third person—Jesus Christ—who gives meaning, guidance and direction to the relationship. When He presides in a marriage, then and only then is it a Christian marriage.”

“Communication is an essential aspect of marriage, because everything else depends on it, especially during a deployment.”

“It’s so okay to be sad about deployments or infertility or any kind of disappointment. But it’s not okay to drown in them. We have to help our kids learn how to lean on Jesus. And we have to be willing to share our hearts a little when they’re heavy so that our friends can help us bear these loads. No matter how old you are – Jesus is your best friend and He will carry all your cares. Let Him do so now. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. (I Peter 5:7)”

“Separations are the times that will make or break your marriage. They are the times you will be asked to be the ‘selfless giver.’ Your service member may ask you to sacrifice your career, schooling or friends and being close to family—the list could go on. Mostly, you will be asked to give of yourself and your time. As a military spouse, you will make these sacrifices as your part in supporting your service member’s patriotism, courage, and commitment to something he or she believes in.”

“Make a commitment to daily let go of unrealistic expectations and become your spouse’s greatest encourager. And the person they’re created by God to be will begin to emerge with new confidence and love for you.”

“Wise counsel can be found in those who have weathered the storms of life and can steer you away from bad decisions. They can pray with you and for you when you feel discouraged. They can encourage you not to give up when all seems hopeless. They can be your cheering section—your “fan club”—to encourage you to persevere under trial. They can offer perspective when these days of being geographically separated during wartime seem like they will never end.”

“Lasting friendships are built in foxholes. Nothing binds two people together faster than a common struggle against the enemy.”

“When you work to connect with God and with each other, you have the opportunity to experience true oneness—the type that comes from spiritual intimacy.”