It’s the first episode of the Marital Arts Master Class and Pastors Ebenezer and Tina Quaye came out swinging! You and your spouse must agree. "Micro solo decisions can lead to macro division." BARS courtesy of the Quayes.

Resist the urge to simply let your marriage unfold. There’s undeniable value in seeking the vision for your marriage from God and being intentional about creating an environment for it to be made manifest.

In the words of the Quayes “we have defaults and then we have decisions”. What are the internal and external influences that you are deciding or allowing to shape your marriage? If your influences aren’t making you better as a unit, you might want to consider taking a step back.

Our partner may be the one to point out that we aren't the best communicator but it’s up to us to endure one of the hardest parts of communication – listening to understand. Better communication, better marriage.

The Quayes are talking all things intimacy in this episode of marital arts. And not just the act of intimacy but the essence of intimacy – vulnerability. There are levels to this!

Marriage is, of course, between two individuals. Of course there are individual priorities before the union, but sharing and agreeing on priorities with your spouse results in stronger foundation and knowledge about what’s needed to grow towards Gods vision for your lives.

Chiiillleee, we might as well give up the notion of ease right now. Marriage is a lot of work yet we have a tendency to think of it as a destination instead of a journey. There’s no win without doing the work.

Conflict doesn’t have to get ugly. In fact it’s an opportunity to educate and be educated when it’s done right. The Quayes are giving us strategies to disagreeing in a healthy way.

Exposing your wounds can be uncomfortable and just down right painful in some areas. But the willingness to address them and let your spouse know where you’re hurt allows for a stronger partnership.

One thing about life – there will be changes. Moving, having a baby, switching career paths are just a few areas of transition in ones life. When you add a spouse to the mix it heightens the need for the tools that will keep your union strong while life is out here lifing.