Do you ever wonder what it takes to have a perfect marriage? I’ll let you in on a little secret; there are no perfect marriages! Marriage is something that needs protection and tender care for a lifetime!
A refreshing read on how to restore or reboot your marriage, No More Perfect Marriages might be the perfect book for you. Jill and Mark Savage recently published this beneficial book regarding growth in marital intimacy.
As a result, Mark and Jill show us their vulnerable side. They share with the reader about their own journey through infidelity, harmful attitudes, and lessons God taught them. Especially relevant, they provide the tools and truths helpful in growing a marriage into something sweet and satisfying.
The Savages talk about the “Perfection Infection” that leads us to have unrealistic expectations of ourselves and of others. This infection leads us to unfairly compare ourselves to others. Perfectionism can wreak havoc on marriages. It tends to promote a low tolerance for the differentness of our mate. These types of unrealistic expectations can strangle affection and foster resentment.
Consequently, marriages can quickly drift into habits that draw us away from each other, rather than closer. These tendencies to drift are referred to as “slow fades.”
Slow Fades
- unrealistic expectations
- minimizing
- not accepting
- disagreement
- defensive responses
- naiveté
- avoiding emotion
Especially relevant, the author weaves in tools for overcoming the slow fades. These are called “God-Tools.” We are in the process of remodeling our master bathroom, and, I’m so thankful our contractor has the correct tools! It would be a very arduous experience without the proper equipment needed. The “God-Tools” are wonderful resources God has promised us in the Bible. Furthermore, especially needful when building a marriage that lasts a lifetime.
God-Tools
- courage
- grace
- love
- humility
- forgiveness
- wisdom
- acceptance
- compassion
I especially appreciate Mark and Jill’s description of twenty-one hedges of protection you can place around your marriage. These will help you keep your marriage strong and avoid the pitfalls that lead to disconnection. The more we grow apart, the easier it will be to become vulnerable and give in to tempting alternatives.
In conclusion, I commend this book to you! Whether you want to shore up your good marriage, repair a shaky one, or just set a strong foundation from the beginning, this book is for you. Happy reading!
Mark and Jill Savage are passionate about encouraging, educating, and equipping families.
After serving in church ministry for twenty years, the Savage’s are meeting the needs of families as authors and speakers through Hearts at Home, a ministry to moms.
Known for their honesty, humor, and practical teaching, Mark and Jill bring hope and encouragement to every audience.