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Julie Holmquist

Julie Holmquist is a content producer for the Focus on the Family marriage team. She’s been married to her husband, Jeff, since 1986 and is also the author of A Call to Love: Preparing Your Heart and Soul for Adoption.

wife being a controlling spouse by lecturing her husband sitting on couch. He looks away from her with his hands to his head

Is My Spouse Controlling or Just Caring?

Does someone you know wonder if they have a controlling spouse? Help them sort through their concerns by looking at characteristics of a controlling spouse and a caring spouse.

A man tenderly embraces his wife in a hospital bed, offering comfort during a deeply emotional moment, representing the journey of when your spouse has a terminal illness.

When Your Spouse Has a Terminal Illness

When you learn your spouse has a terminal illness, everything changes in an instant. What’s important to know as you begin this hard journey?

A couple sitting across from each other hold hands, in support of each other. Be on the lookout for warning signs of mental health issues.

Warning Signs that Your Spouse Has Mental Health Issues

When spouses stay alert to changes in each other, they can catch warning signs of possible mental health issues early on and seek the help they need. Watch for drastic emotional, cognitive, physical, behavioral, or spiritual changes. If a souse needs help, it’s wise to initiate a gentle conversation, ask questions, and get an outside opinion.

A couple is consulting with a doctor in an office, discussing their efforts to get pregnant. The doctor, wearing a white coat and glasses, listens attentively. The couple sits closely together, indicating support and partnership as they explore the do's and don'ts of trying to get pregnant.

Trying to Get Pregnant? 7 Do’s and Don’ts for Couples

If you’re trying to get pregnant, know that there are several things you can do to increase your likelihood of conceiving. Avoiding stress and planning intercourse around ovulation are practical steps, also realize that the process may take some time. Praying together and looking at all the potential factors are helpful as well.

A woman types on her smartphone in a bright kitchen, illustrating how to comfort someone over text with a calm and thoughtful expression.

How to Comfort Someone Over Text

With a simple text, you can comfort someone and pass along powerful encouragement, just as the apostle Paul did in his letters. Even a short text can lift spirits and express love. Say you’re praying. Let your friend know that you’re available to meet in person if possible and to provide any other tangible help.

A husband twirling his wife as they dance on the beach to rekindle their relationship.

5 Ways You Can Rekindle Your Relationship with Your Spouse

As Christians, we know that staying close to Jesus requires time and effort. So why do we think we can take our spouse for granted? Staying close to our spouse also takes time and effort. Try these five ways to rekindle your relationship.