Islands, Tides, and the Deep: A Marriage Message From the SeaSample

The Tide:

I told you yesterday that our Florida trip was disrupted by the massive waves crashing on the shore. At low tide, we could see the remnants of all that the tide had resurfaced. Strings of seaweed, pieces of trash, and decaying marine life left the once white sandy beaches covered. It wasn’t pretty to look at, and it was somewhat painful to walk on.

The tide has a way of stirring up what’s been sitting quietly beneath the surface. Things that have settled on the ocean floor — sand, debris, even hidden things — are brought up and exposed when the waters begin to shift. And honestly, marriage can be the same way. When the tides of life change — whether it’s stress, transition, or conflict — unresolved wounds and buried emotions can rise to the surface. Things we thought were "dealt with" or chose to ignore suddenly reappear, often at the worst moments.

Today’s reminder from the shoreline: don’t let things stay buried. Scripture tells us, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18). That includes your spouse.

When you’re hurting, when you're frustrated, don’t shove it down and hope it settles. Talk it through. Pray it through. Seek peace. And once it's healed, don’t keep dredging it back up. The enemy would love nothing more than to stir up division in your marriage. If there’s unresolved sin, hurt, shame, or grief sitting on the foundation of your relationship, he’ll try to bring it right back to the surface.

So stay alert (1 Peter 5:8). Stay humble (James 4:10). And keep short accounts (Matthew 18:15). Let the tide cleanse, not crush.

Challenge: Clear the Debris

Set aside intentional time with your spouse today — no phones, no distractions. Ask this simple but powerful question: “Is there anything we’ve let settle beneath the surface that we need to talk through or pray through?”

Then listen without interrupting and respond with humility and grace. Let this be a space of honesty, not accusation — of healing, not hurt.

If needed, ask for forgiveness, offer forgiveness, or commit to seeking wise counsel if the pain runs deep.

Invite Jesus into the process — and let Him bring peace to what’s been stirred up.