Navigating the Shifting Tides of Marriage

"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth." I Corinthians 4:4-6

Embrace the New Season (Without Clinging to the Old One)

Navigating the shifting tides of marriage Marriage in your 50s (and beyond) is a bit like finding an old love letter—familiar, treasured, but sometimes hard to read. The kids may be grown, careers are winding down (or shifting gears), and suddenly, you find yourself staring across the dinner table at a person who has changed—just like you have.

The dynamics of marriage naturally shift over time, but here’s the good news: change isn’t the enemy. In fact, God designed marriage to grow, stretch, and deepen over the years. So, how do you navigate this season with love, laughter, and a whole lot of grace? Let’s dive into what Scripture says about navigating the shifting tides of marriage so we can not only survive but thrive.

Communicate Like You Mean It (Because Mind Reading Still Isn't a Thing

You’d think after decades together, you’d be able to read each other’s minds. Spoiler alert: You can’t. And unmet expectations often lead to resentment.

Ephesians 4:29 reminds us, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up.” That means speaking and listening with grace. Instead of assuming he knows what you need, tell him. Instead of dismissing his concerns, lean in. Healthy communication is a lifelong skill—and one that keeps marriage strong.

Handle Change with Grace (not Grumbling)

Let’s be honest—aging comes with some surprises, and not all of them are fun. Whether it’s health changes, shifting roles, or unexpected life detours, this stage of marriage requires flexibility. Philippians 4:12-13 is a great reminder: “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation… I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.”

Instead of resisting change, embrace it together. Maybe retirement looks different than you expected. Maybe your roles are shifting as caregiving responsibilities increase. No matter what comes, lean into God’s strength and each other.

Navigating the Shifting Tides of Marriage Intimacy (Yes, we're going there)

Physical and emotional intimacy change over time, but they don’t have to disappear. Song of Solomon 4:7 reminds us, “You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you.” (Ladies, that includes wrinkles and all.)

Intimacy isn’t just physical—it’s also emotional closeness, laughter, and deep conversation. Make time for each other. Hold hands. Flirt a little. Keep the spark alive, even if it looks different than it did in your 20s.

Keep Christ at the Center (Because That’s the Glue That Holds Everything Together)

At the end of the day, a marriage rooted in Christ is a marriage that stands the test of time. Ecclesiastes 4:12 says, “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” When you prioritize prayer, worship, and serving together, your marriage isn’t just about the two of you—it’s about glorifying God through your relationship.

So, if you find yourselves drifting, bring it back to the basics: Pray together. Study Scripture together. Seek godly counsel when needed. A marriage built on faith is a marriage built to last.