Recently I have seen so many people go through problems with their marriage. Most people dream of a happy marriage where they can grow old with the love of their lives. However, the reality is that for many the hopes and dreams of yesterday have turned into a nightmare.

As I have talked with those who are going through problems in their marriage it seems like the same problems occur time and again. There are many different outcomes, situations and problems, but the root cause always seems to be the same. So, this week I am going to blog about 5 ways you can keep a healthy strong vibrant marriage, and no, date night is not one of them!

For those who do not believe in the institution of marriage, these are not for you, but I must say you are missing out on the best thing you could ever experience. So here’s my first step to a great marriage:

1. Believe in your spouse more than your spouse believes in their own self

Far too many people do not strive to achieve their dreams and aspirations because there is no-one to cheer us on. How many times have you heard someone make fun of their spouse when their spouse talks about their dreams in life. One wife might say, ‘I want to go back to school and become a fashion designer’, in response the husband may say, ‘no dear, that’s some far-fetched dream, the fashion industry is too competitive and your not a spring chicken anymore’. Really what the husband is saying is that he does not believe the wife has what is takes to make it in the fashion industry. How sad that the person who should be your biggest supporter is the one knocking you down.

Yes, there is always that element of reality and you must speak the truth, but far too often couples do not believe their spouse can really attain anymore than the place they are at in the present.

I believe I have a great marriage. This one of the things I see which we have that others who struggle don’t. We’re not perfect, but I have to honestly say that Raquel believes in me more than I believe in me. She sees things in me that I don’t even see. The feeling is mutual. If only she could see what I see in her. If she wanted to make a rocket to fly to the moon, I’d back her 100% because I know she could do it if she put her mind to it!

So today, ask yourself this one question, ‘Do I believe in my spouse more than they believe in their own self?‘ If the answer is no, start seeing what God sees in your spouse. An incredible person with the perfect personality and talents to accomplish what no-one else on this earth could accomplish, their God-given destiny!