This week we’re reminding couples that the best marriages are built by those who never stop learning. We’re inviting you to become a student of marriage — and of your spouse — with three incredible resources:

📘 The 5 Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman — Learn how to speak the unique “love language” of your spouse, whether that’s Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Quality Time, Physical Touch, or Gifts. Discover why love often gets “lost in translation” and how to fix it! 📝

The Relational Needs Survey by David Ferguson — A practical tool that helps you identify your deepest relational needs (like acceptance, respect, support, or comfort) and how they show up in your marriage. Knowing your spouse’s needs creates a roadmap for deeper connection. 📖

Marriage by Paul David Tripp — A gospel-centered look at marriage, reminding us that two broken people in a broken world desperately need grace. Tripp provides honest truth, real-life examples, and biblical wisdom to help couples move from frustration to flourishing.

✅ Invest in your marriage today — because great marriages don’t just happen, they’re intentionally built! 

Our Back to School series concludes with a very special interview featuring Matt & Julie Barnhill. These two are not only gifted counselors, they are also dear friends and incredible role models.

Spending time with them is like being in the presence of master teachers. In this episode, they unpack timeless lessons for marriage, family, and faith—leaving us encouraged, inspired, and equipped to live with greater intentionality.

This is one you won’t want to miss.

Jim & Christie Jacobus

Marriage is the most important class you’ll ever take! In this solo episode of Your Marriage Matters, Christie Jacobus, Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Nurse, takes you ‘Back to School’ to learn the ABC’s of a Successful Marriage.

With practical wisdom and heartfelt insights, Christie shares how appreciation, beliefs, and commitment can transform your relationship. Tune in and take home tools that will help you and your spouse graduate your marriage with honors!

Hey gang ...

We’re back—and it feels good to be “Back to School”! In this kickoff episode of Your Marriage Matters, Jim and Christie share their #1 marriage flex: never stop learning. After 38 years of marriage, they’ve discovered that growth—personal and relational—is the foundation for a vibrant, resilient, and joy-filled marriage.

Together, they unpack 10 powerful reasons why a growth mindset is essential for couples, from keeping the marriage dynamic to modeling something transformative for kids and grandkids. You’ll also hear about their reset of the podcast, YouTube channel, and Instagram—and why now is the time to go back to school on your marriage.

This month’s theme, Back to School, sets the stage for a series of conversations and resources designed to help you and your spouse keep learning, growing, and reconnecting with God’s design for marriage.

Jim & Christie Jacobus

www.yourmarriagematters.com