Practice the 5-year Marriage Plan

Use the 5-year marriage plan.

It's advice I've given to couples who are going through a rough patch. Experiencing a period in their marriage when they are considering ending it.

In my 40+ years of ministry, and in my own marriage, I've learned that every marriage has its ups and downs. It's a reality of married life!

What exactly is the 5-year marriage plan?

It's this. If you are going through a rough spot, commit to remaining married for five years. Close and lock the door from the outside. Restate your covenant vows to one another.

God never intended marriage to end in divorce (Malachi 2:16).

But you must also do this: during the five years, choose to love the other. Be patient and kind. Not selfish, jealous, or rude. Not storing up the memories of past wrongs. But instead practicing biblical love as defined for Christ-followers in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.

After committing to this plan, I've had several couples – even those who were contemplating divorce - find they love each other like never before. And they're now happily married. They've come to realize that love is what you do, not what you say.

Use the 5-year marriage plan.

You will likely find yourselves happier and enjoying love like never before.