Divorce: 5 Red Flags your spouse wants a one (and how to prevent it)

Is divorce in your future?

Marriage is a sacred bond that requires continuous effort and attention. No relationship is without its challenges, but when certain warning signs emerge, it’s crucial to address them promptly. In this article, we’ll delve into the red flags that may indicate your spouse is contemplating divorce and offer practical strategies, including a Christian perspective, to prevent it.

Don’t feel like reading the whole blog post? Check it out in video form!

Divorce Red Flag #1: Arguing Over Anything & Everything

Ask yourself? Does your spouse seem to constantly be at their tipping point?

We’re not talking a disagreement here or there – that’s totally normal. In fact, a healthy couple can have their share of arguments as long as they’re sorting things out and not holding onto grudges. What we’re talking about here is going at it every other day and blowing up over the tiniest stuff. If so, that’s when you need to take a closer look. For instance, if forgetting to turn on the dishwasher at night into a major shouting match and you end up going to bed mad for the third or fourth time that week, that’s a red flag.

Constant bickering and arguments over trivial matters can be a clear indication that something deeper is amiss. Often, external stressors like work pressure or financial concerns exacerbate these conflicts. To counter this, fostering healthy communication is key. Engage in open conversations about each other’s stresses and concerns. Seek compromise rather than trying to win the argument, and remember that understanding your partner’s perspective can go a long way in diffusing tension.

Usually, if a couple is generally good but fights a lot, fixing it isn’t rocket science. If you’re stuck in this loop of constant arguments over trivial things, it’s time to learn how to sidestep the useless battles and deal with the big disagreements in a more grown-up and constructive way.

+ Check out this super helpful video on arguing better (and more) – it’s seriously worth a watch.

Now, let’s talk about something even more serious – when you or your partner just stop trying to fix things. Which brings us to the next point…

Divorce Red Flag #2: No Longer Willing To Resolve Conflict or Find Solutions

Ask yourself, is your partner giving Up on Working Things Out?

If your partner doesn’t seem to care how your fights end anymore, or if they act like trying to find solutions is a lost cause, that’s a big red flag. When this kind of “what’s the point” attitude kicks in, your partner might start pulling away even more, thinking there’s just no way you two can ever get along. That’s not good news, and it’s something you gotta address ASAP.

When the willingness to resolve conflicts diminishes, resentment and dissatisfaction can grow. Unresolved issues can fester and erode the foundation of your marriage. Tackle these problems head-on by dedicating time to address lingering concerns. Embrace conflict resolution strategies such as active listening, and be prepared to forgive and move forward. Remember that effective conflict resolution often leads to a stronger bond.

Divorce Red Flag #3: Lack of Emotional Connection and Withdrawal of Affection

If your wife is getting distant and you’re not feeling the affection like before, that’s a clear signal that she might be mentally checking out of the marriage. Emotional intimacy is the bedrock of a healthy marriage. If you notice a decline in affection and emotional connection, it’s time to take action.

Trust me, this is like a neon sign that things are going south. But don’t panic, usually it’s a symptom of deeper issues rather than the main problem. Fixing the real problems in your marriage can usually help rebuild the emotional bond and get those warm fuzzies flowing again. Prioritize quality time together, engage in heart-to-heart conversations, and express your love through service, words and actions. Simple acts of kindness and thoughtfulness can reignite the spark that initially brought you together.

+ If this vibe is mixing with other signs, it’s time to get moving and rescue your relationship. Watch this quick video to learn three tricks for patching things up (even if your partner seems totally uninterested).

Divorce Red Flag #4: Rarely or Never Having Sex

Ask yourself, does the bedroom’s seem a bit cold recently. Are you very rarely or just not having sex at all?

Let’s talk about sex. It. holds a significant role in the marriage covenant and is central to a husband and wife becoming one flesh (Genesis 2:24). If you and your partner are always at each other’s throats and the emotional connection is zilch, it’s pretty likely that the action between the sheets is gonna fizzle out too. But sometimes, a lack of action in bed is a problem all on its own, and it can put your marriage on the express train to divorce, whether it’s because the spark’s gone or someone’s libido took a nosedive.

Physical intimacy is a significant aspect of a marital relationship. A lack of sexual intimacy might stem from various factors, including stress, emotional disconnect, or even physical health concerns. Address these issues through open dialogue, understanding, and empathy. Explore ways to rekindle the passion in your relationship, keeping in mind the importance of intimacy in strengthening your bond.

In any case, a marriage without any action in the bedroom is usually a marriage on a one-way track to divorce. So, if your partner is not into it or keeps finding excuses, you’ve got a clear sign that things are rocky.

Divorce Red Flag #5: Your Spouse Is Absent More Often or Seems Preoccupied

Ask yourself, is your spouse often MIA or just zoned out?

Physical and emotional absence can be worrisome signs of marital trouble. If your partner’s pulling disappearing acts or seems totally wrapped up in something else, it could be a sign that they’re not thrilled with the way things are going at home. Or it might mean they’re mentally prepping for a life on their own, making new friends or possibly even testing the dating waters.

But don’t jump to conclusions just yet. Often, the demands of daily life can cause partners to drift apart. It’s essential to identify the underlying reasons for your spouse’s absence and work together to create a healthier balance between individual pursuits and shared time. Dedicate moments to connect and engage in activities that foster togetherness.

Preventing Divorce Through Communication and Understanding

Open communication is the cornerstone of any successful marriage. Actively listen to your partner’s concerns, fears, and desires. If you find yourselves unable to resolve issues on your own, seeking professional help, such as couples counselling, can provide valuable guidance. Infuse your marriage with Christian values like forgiveness, compassion, and selflessness. Allow your faith to guide your actions and decisions, strengthening the spiritual dimension of your relationship.

So, What’s Next?

Marriage is a journey filled with ups and downs, but recognizing and addressing warning signs early on can prevent deeper issues from escalating. By nurturing healthy communication, prioritizing emotional and physical intimacy, and aligning your actions with Christian principles, you can create a lasting and fulfilling partnership.

Just because your partner’s showing a few of these signs doesn’t mean they’re already packing their bags. These can be more like caution lights hinting that things could get rough. But if you’re seeing a bunch of these signs and you’ve got that gut feeling that things aren’t right, it’s time to step in and make some changes before things get worse.

Start off by checking out this down-to-earth video by marriage expert Brad Browning. He’s got some solid advice on what you might be doing wrong and how to get your wife to fall back in love with you.

+ Click here to watch the video now.