Misunderstanding and poor communication in a marriage can create rifts in a couple’s stability and faith in one another. Although each couple will inevitably face trying times, there are simple things they can do everyday that will allow God to step in and heal the wounds in their marriage.

The following six actions can make a significant difference in the stability of your relationship with your spouse.

1. Admit you are powerless

The first step in allowing God to heal your marriage is allowing yourself to admit that you are not the one in power; God is. Understanding that you cannot manage your marital problems alone with your spouse will help the two of you seek the higher power in times of trouble.

Knowing that you do not have the power to control the way your spouse acts, thinks and reacts is pivotal in developing solutions that takes both party’s points of view into account.

“We saw how powerless we were to help ourselves; but that was good, for we put everything into the hands of God who alone could save us … ” 2 Corinthians 1:9

2. Pray in the morning and pray at night

Pray together and pray separately. During your intimate pleas with God, describe and discuss the specific aspects of your relationship you are grateful for, things you wish to improve upon and ask for guidance to act and live righteously. Together, strive to draw near unto God and this desire will help the two of you cleave unto one another on a different level of your relationship.

“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;” John 14:1

3. Listen for promptings

Be still, breathe and listen. When fighting with your spouse, allow God to step in and mediate the conflict. In the heat of the moment, you may want to lash out and release bottled-up emotions, but take a step back and seek to find a larger perspective on the situation.

Sometimes it is in the silent seeking for understanding that you are able to let go of the built-up resentment, jealousy, pain and anger that once consumed your thoughts. When you are still, you are allowing God to enter into your thoughts and guide you to the place and thoughts you ultimately need to experience.

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27

4. Remind yourself, “for better or for worse.”

You may want to run at the first sign of trouble instead of facing the trial head on, resist the urge. When you vow to stand by your spouse in times of ease and tribulation, you are allowing yourself to grow together as a couple. With the Lord by your side, you will be given the strength and courage you need to face the battles your marriage will encounter.

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” Romans 8:13

5. Be gracious

When you are thrown into uncanny situations, weather the storm with grace and faith that the tumultuous wind and cracking thunder will dissipate and the flowers will flourish from the moisture once again. Seek to find an emotional resistance to resentment and jealousy. Find the power within yourself to be kind and understanding in the wake of trials.

“And he said unto me, my grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Corinthians 12:8

6. Hold on to each other

For better or worse, in sickness and in health, hold on to one another and never let go. Face life as a couple; endure the hardships and joys as a unit and together you will create a relationship stabilized on dependency and love.

“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD.” Proverbs 18:22