Tag: jesus

Real Talk…Divorce Isn’t for Everyone

By: Chauna-Kaye Pottinger

The Fortress Builder Series has come to an end. Many of you have reached out to ask what we will discuss next. I’ve decided to touch on a hot topic crucial for married couples. Let’s have a real heart-to-heart. Not a heavy, gloom-and-doom chat. It’s the kind of conversation that feels like sitting on a front porch swing. You’re sipping something warm while talking about life, love, and all the messy in-betweens. We’re talking about divorce today—and let’s just say, it’s not for the faint of heart.

And truthfully? It’s not for everyone.

The Grass Isn’t Always Greener on the Other Side

There’s a popular myth that divorce is an instant reset button. People believe that once the papers are signed, peace will magically descend. They think everyone will move on gracefully into their happily ever after. But let’s tell the truth in love. Divorce may offer an escape from some pain. However, it brings its own brand of heartbreak too. The way I always describe it is this. It’s like choosing a more toxic version of marriage.

Especially when children are involved.

Kids are resilient, yes, but they’re also intuitive. They can sense tension before words are ever spoken. When divorce happens, they often feel like referees in a match they never signed up for. They are torn between loyalty to two people they love deeply. “Whose side am I supposed to be on?” becomes the silent question they carry from house to house, weekend to weekend.

And let’s not forget how former soulmates can suddenly become sworn enemies.

Once the vows are broken, it’s easy for love to turn into loathing. The person you once celebrated anniversaries with may now be reduced to “my ex.” This is often spoken with an eye roll, a sigh, or outright contempt. Respect erodes, empathy disappears, and the children—caught in the crossfire—often witness their parents dehumanizing each other like strangers at war.

Jesus Knew the Weight of It

When Jesus was asked about divorce in Matthew 19, He didn’t shrug it off or condone it casually. He said: “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” — Matthew 19:6 (NIV)

That wasn’t about control, it was about compassion. Jesus understood the ripple effects of separation. He wasn’t trying to shame the broken, He was trying to protect something sacred.

Because He knew that breaking a covenant breaks more than a contract. It breaks trust, rhythms, dreams and yes, sometimes even people.

Let’s Talk Real Life

Divorce doesn’t just split the bed, it splits the budget too. Suddenly, two incomes become one. A shared mortgage turns into rent checks and custody calendars. Date nights get replaced by court dates. And the emotional toll? It can leave you exhausted—navigating co-parenting boundaries, starting over, and trying to rebuild a life that doesn’t feel so fragmented.

Then come the blended family dynamics. That can be a beautiful story of redemption. It can also be a complicated maze of step-parenting tensions. There may be unresolved baggage and “you’re not my real mom” moments. And if one spouse still carries feelings for the other? Whew. That’s a whole emotional plot twist no one prepared you for.

And let’s not gloss over the loneliness.

Dating again after divorce can feel like jumping into a pool without knowing how deep the water is—or if there’s even water at all. For some, it’s energizing. For others, it’s terrifying. Especially when your heart still beats in time with old memories and familiar routines.

So Why Isn’t Divorce for Everyone?

Because while some marriages genuinely need a safe, loving exit—most are just stuck.

Stuck in poor communication.
Stuck in unhealed wounds.
Stuck in unmet expectations.

But not necessarily beyond repair.

Jesus didn’t discourage divorce to be harsh—He discouraged it because He knew that rebuilding is often better than starting over. That healing, though painful, can lead to deeper love. That with humility, therapy, grace, and a whole lot of prayer, even the most bruised marriages can bloom again.

Final Thought: Stay if You Can, Leave if You Must but Don’t Quit Without a Fight

Divorce may be common, but it was never meant to be easy. It’s not an exit ramp for every marital fender-bender. Jesus didn’t teach on marriage and divorce because He wanted us trapped—He did it because He wanted us whole.

So, if you’re standing on shaky ground today, don’t rush to sign the divorce papers. Pray. Breathe. Seek wise counsel. Ask the Holy Spirit for help. Pray for eyes to see your spouse not as the enemy. Remember that they are the one you once vowed to love, even when it’s hard.

Divorce isn’t for everyone. And maybe—just maybe—you’ve been called to rebuild the fortress, not walk away from it. The Love Fortress, my upcoming book, is a powerful resource. It is designed to help couples rebuild what was broken, brick by brick. This rebuilding is done with faith, grace, and intention. Make sure that you mark your calendars for September 1, 2025.

Remember this, your story’s not over. Not yet. Hang in there.

Chauna-Kaye Pottinger is a devoted Christian residing in sunny Orlando, Florida. As a loving wife and mother, she gracefully balances her roles with a fervent dedication to her faith. Chauna-Kaye’s heart is set on reaching Heaven, and she channels her passion into inspiring everyone she encounters to embark on the same spiritual journey. Through her blog, she shares insights, experiences, and unwavering enthusiasm for a life centered on faith and eternal purpose. Join Chauna-Kaye as she navigates the path to Heaven, encouraging others to walk alongside her in this transformative quest.

Let’s Talk About Sex

By: Chauna-Kaye Pottinger

Well, here we are. Brick by brick, pillar by pillar, we’ve been building a fortress. It is strong enough to weather the storms of marriage. We’ve fasted and prayed. We’ve been honest and earned respect. We rebuilt trust and learned how to reconcile like pros. We added a little spice with enticement and embraced the power of godly submission. Now, it’s time to talk about the final, and let’s be honest, fan-favorite pillar of The Love Fortress: Sexual Satisfaction.

Yes, church folks, we’re going there. And no, the sanctuary won’t collapse.

The Taboo That Shouldn’t Be

Let’s be honest. Somewhere along the pews, pulpits, and prayer meetings, sex got either shamed into silence or watered down into something transactional: “duty sex,” “make-up sex,” or “marital obligation.” Yikes. The church, while full of good intentions, has often mishandled the conversation around sex. Either it’s avoided altogether like a scandalous secret or reduced to something carnal and sinful, unless you’re trying to make a baby, and even then, keep it quiet.

But let’s go back to the Garden for a minute. Before the fall, before shame, before fig leaves: there was nakedness and no shame. God didn’t awkwardly look away when Adam saw Eve and said, “Bone of my bone, flesh of my flesh!” That brother was into her. And God didn’t pull him aside like, “Hey, bro… tone it down.” He smiled and said, “Be fruitful and multiply.” Translation: “Enjoy yourselves!”

Sex wasn’t man’s invention. It was God’s gift. And like all His gifts: it was meant to bless, not burden.

Mutual Pleasure Is the Goal, Not a Bonus

Now let’s get real: sex should be mutually satisfying. It’s not a performance. It’s not one-sided. It’s not a race. One person should not cross the finish line. The other spouse should not be left staring at the ceiling wondering what just happened.

Too many couples have settled for silent frustration. Women, in particular, have been conditioned to think their climax is optional or “extra.” Sis, no. And bro, let’s not leave her behind on the express train to Pleasure Town. Sex was never designed to be selfish.

Talk about it. Before, during, and yes, even after. That post-game breakdown is just as holy as the act itself. What did you like? What made you feel close? What didn’t work? It’s not awkward: it’s intimacy in action.

Why Sexual Satisfaction Matters

Let’s stop acting like this is just physical. Sex is deeply emotional, spiritual, and psychological. It can heal wounds, build trust, break walls, and create a safe space where both spouses feel seen, wanted, and delighted in.

Here’s what a healthy sex life in marriage brings:

  • Deeper connection: It’s like a soul handshake, but way more exciting.
  • Stress relief: Yep, it’s better than a bubble bath or binge-watching your favorite series.
  • Confidence boost: Knowing you’re desired does wonders for your self-esteem.
  • Improved communication: Couples who talk about sex tend to talk about everything else better too.

And let’s not forget: it’s fun. Holy fun. Righteous, covenant-approved fun. If your bedroom feels more like a board meeting, it might be time to make a change. Rediscover the joy in it.

A Word for the Wounded

Some of us didn’t grow up hearing this. Some have been hurt, shamed, or misinformed about sex. If this topic stirs up guilt or grief, I see you. There’s grace. There’s healing. And there’s room for laughter and learning, even now. Don’t let your past script your present. This is a new chapter in your marriage, and yes: God wants it to be satisfying.

Finishing Strong (Pun Fully Intended)

Sex isn’t the cherry on top of your Love Fortress. It’s a foundational brick that locks in everything else. When done God’s way: with love, respect, communication, and laughter, it becomes a beautiful act of worship, bonding, and joy.

So here’s to finishing strong. Literally and figuratively. 😉

As we close out this Fortress Builder series, let me say this: protect what matters. Guard your marriage with all the pillars we’ve covered. Invest in each other. And don’t be afraid to enjoy one of God’s greatest gifts—with freedom, with passion, and with purpose.

And speaking of building strong marriages: mark your calendars! The Love Fortress Book will be available September 1, 2025, on all platforms where books are sold, including Audible. This isn’t just a book. It’s a marriage manual. It’s a love revival. It reminds you that with God, intentionality, and yes, even great sex, your marriage can be fortified like never before.

Tell a friend, plan to grab a copy, and get ready to transform your relationship from the inside out. The fortress is waiting, let’s build it together.

Chauna-Kaye Pottinger is a devoted Christian residing in sunny Orlando, Florida. As a loving wife and mother, she gracefully balances her roles with a fervent dedication to her faith. Chauna-Kaye’s heart is set on reaching Heaven, and she channels her passion into inspiring everyone she encounters to embark on the same spiritual journey. Through her blog, she shares insights, experiences, and unwavering enthusiasm for a life centered on faith and eternal purpose. Join Chauna-Kaye as she navigates the path to Heaven, encouraging others to walk alongside her in this transformative quest

Yes, You Can Still Flirt (and Should) After Marriage

By Chauna-Kaye Pottinger

Welcome back to The Love Fortress blog series. This series is a journey through the eight foundational pillars. These pillars help couples cultivate emotional, spiritual, and physical intimacy in Christian marriage. Last week, we talked about Reconciliation after a Dispute. We discussed how to disarm anger and lay down pride. We also considered how to pursue peace with grace and humility. It was a reminder that even after we hurt one another, we can choose love, repair, and restoration. But once peace is restored, what then? How do we go beyond survival mode and rekindle a spark that’s been dulled by time or tension?

That brings us to this week’s focus: The letter E– Enticing Your Spouse.

Now, don’t let the word “enticing” throw you off. This is not about manipulation or seduction. It’s about intentional pursuit. It’s about bringing delight, anticipation, and even a little playfulness into your marriage. It’s the part of love that flirts, giggles, compliments, affirms, and says with confidence, “I still want you.”

Many Christian couples quietly let go of one vital ingredient in their relationship: pursuit. This happens somewhere between meal prepping, ministry meetings, raising children, and navigating the demands of daily life. We get so busy building a life together. We forget to keep building the romance that brought us together in the first place.

That night is unforgettable. The air was still abuzz with joy from the exchange of our lifelong commitment to each other. The scent of fresh roses lingered in our bridal suite. After all the hugs and excitement, we began unwrapping the mountain of gifts from friends and loved ones. One of the most beautiful cards I received came from a couple I deeply admired. They had been married for over 30 years, and I had always seen them as the picture of lasting love. The note inside was simple, but it carried weight. It said, “Never, ever take each other for granted. Keep the spark going. Every. Single. Day.”

I remember reading that card, and feeling both challenged and inspired. This couple had endured the highs and lows of life together. They still believed in keeping the spark alive. Surely, it wasn’t just about good feelings. It was about consistent intention.

That message has followed me through every season of marriage.

That card felt like a charge. Over time, I’ve learned how sacred and necessary that spark is. This is especially true in Christian marriages. Intimacy is not just a benefit of the covenant. It is a reflection of God’s delight in closeness.

So how do we keep the spark alive, especially in a world that constantly pulls at our attention and energy?

It starts with being intentional. Here are some ways to pursue your spouse and make them feel desired, appreciated, and seen:

Say It Loud (and Soft, and Often)

Affirm your spouse with your words. Not just “I love you,” but “I admire you.” “I’m proud of you.” “I feel safe with you.” Tell them what you love about the way they think, lead, love, or laugh. Text them in the middle of the day just to say, “You’re on my mind, and I’m grateful for you.” Sometimes a midday text hits harder than roses.

Flirt Without a Script

You don’t need a grand gesture to turn up the charm. Try these:

  • Leave a note in their Bible or lunch bag
  • Give them that look across the room
  • Touch their back as you pass by
  • Ask them on a spontaneous lunch date
  • Play a song that reminds you of them
  • Whisper something kind while they’re doing something ordinary

These aren’t small gestures. They’re seeds. And they grow connection.

Pursue Their Heart, Not Just Their Body

Enticement isn’t always physical. In fact, some of the most magnetic moments are emotional and spiritual. Ask deep questions. Listen well. Remember what matters to them. Cheer for their dreams. Speak life over their insecurities. When someone knows you’re still interested in who they’re becoming, they feel cherished.

Affirming or “gassing up” your spouse has a profound psychological impact that goes far beyond boosting their ego. It reinforces their sense of self-worth, security, and emotional connection within the relationship. When a spouse consistently hears genuine praise, admiration, and encouragement, it activates the brain’s reward center. This releases feel-good chemicals like dopamine. It cultivates a positive association with both the words and the person saying them. Over time, this creates a mental framework where they feel seen, valued, and safe to be their authentic self. It also helps to counteract internalized doubts. This is crucial in a world that constantly measures worth by performance and appearance. Within a marriage, this intentional affirmation fosters emotional intimacy. It increases resilience during conflict. It lays a strong foundation of trust. These affirmations remind your partner that they are cherished not just for what they do, but for who they are.

Serve and Surprise

Fold the laundry. Fill their gas tank. Tackle the chore they dread. These acts of service might seem mundane, but they send a loud and clear message: “I see you. I love you. I’ve got you.” Sometimes the sexiest thing you can do is unload the dishwasher without being asked.

Celebrate Who They Are

Honor your spouse in public. Brag on them. Show them off. Thank God for them out loud during prayer. Make it a habit to say, “I’m so glad I married you.” Say it even when they’re wearing mismatched socks. Also, say it when they’re asking where the ketchup is for the fifth time.

Because here’s the truth—enticement is not a phase; it’s a practice. When it is rooted in love, delight, and commitment, it transforms. It becomes one of the greatest gifts you can give each other.

In my upcoming book The Love Fortress: Eight Pillars to Protect, Strengthen,  and Reignite Your Marriage, I’ll share a cheat sheet. I’ll offer this to couples as a starting point. This will help couples who want to reignite the spark. But they aren’t sure where to begin. Think of it as a starter kit. It contains simple ideas that work in the real rhythm of marriage. Marriage can often be messy and often beautiful.

Next week, we’ll be tackling a topic that’s often misunderstood but deeply transformative: Godly Submission.We’ll talk about what submission is and what it definitely is not, and how mutual surrender in love can become one of the most powerful pillars in your marriage.

But until then, go flirt with your forever love. Laugh. Text. Compliment. Pursue.

Keep the spark alive. You’ll be amazed at how much warmth and joy it brings to your home—and your heart.

Chauna-Kaye Pottinger is a devoted Christian residing in sunny Orlando, Florida. As a loving wife and mother, she gracefully balances her roles with a fervent dedication to her faith. Chauna-Kaye’s heart is set on reaching Heaven, and she channels her passion into inspiring everyone she encounters to embark on the same spiritual journey. Through her blog, she shares insights, experiences, and unwavering enthusiasm for a life centered on faith and eternal purpose. Join Chauna-Kaye as she navigates the path to Heaven, encouraging others to walk alongside her in this transformative quest.

Let’s Make Up: Turning Conflict Into Connection

Because peace is more than just the absence of noise.

Last week in our Love Fortress blog series, we tackled the topic of trust. It is the sacred glue that keeps our relationships strong, even in the face of storms. We talked about how trust takes years to build, seconds to break, and sometimes a lifetime to repair. But what happens when that trust is rattled? What happens when a heated argument leads to icy silence? You find yourself lying on opposite ends of the bed. Each of you is wrapped in your own pride and pain.

Let’s talk about reconciliation after a dispute; because let’s be honest, even the most “in love” couples have days when love feels more like a battlefield than a ballroom dance.

When Disputes Happen

Let’s paint the picture: You’ve just had a big argument. Words flew like daggers. One of you stormed out; or worse, stayed in but gave the silent treatment like it was an Olympic decathlon. Maybe you’re now withholding affection or intimacy, hoping your spouse will feel the sting of your frustration. We get it. When you’ve been wronged, there’s something satisfying, at least in the moment, about pulling back. It feels like justice.

But here’s the raw truth: weaponizing silence or sex creates more distance, not more clarity. The louder one spouse gets, the more right they feel; the quieter the other becomes, the more resentful they grow. And before you know it, the issue becomes less about what was said and more about how both of you reacted.

I remember early in my marriage with Jaymie, I had a bad habit of threatening divorce during heated arguments. I didn’t realize at the time how damaging those words were. In my mind, I was expressing just how hurt I felt; but to him, it sent the message that our marriage wasn’t meaningful or secure. One day, Jaymie looked at me and said, “It’s hard for me to have confidence and trust in our relationship when it feels like you’re ready to walk away at any moment.” That stopped me in my tracks. His vulnerability shook something inside of me. I realized that reconciliation doesn’t stand a chance when threats are sitting at the table.

The Pain of Being Wronged

Being wronged by your spouse stings in a way few things do. This is the person who vowed to love you. They promised to protect your heart. They said they would cover you emotionally. Now they feel like the very source of your ache. That pain can feel lonely—maddening even. In that space, it’s easy to rehearse your side of the argument. You build your case. You seek validation from friends or family. But here’s what often gets overlooked: sometimes, we’re reacting to the story we’ve told ourselves about what happened. It’s not necessarily the full truth. And when those stories aren’t filtered through the lens of grace, context, or clarity, they can distort reality. Yet because they feel true, we act on them as if they are.

Here’s a gentle warning: sharing every marital fight with your circle may win you sympathy. However, it can cost you trust. Your spouse can forgive you, but your mama will not. Your best friend will never look at them the same again. And reconciliation becomes even harder when too many spectators have a front-row seat to your private battles.

Don’t Let the Sun Go Down…

Ephesians 4:26 offers timeless wisdom: “Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.” You don’t have to resolve every issue before bedtime. However, don’t go to sleep marinating in bitterness. Angry hearts harden overnight.

Here are some intuitive and light-hearted ways to pursue peace instead of prolonging pain:

  1. Break the Ice, Literally
    Hand your spouse a popsicle with a sticky note that says, “Let’s cool off and talk when you’re ready.” Humor heals.
  2. Initiate a Grace Truce
    Say, “I’m not ready to hash it all out, but I love you and want to get back to us.” It shows humility and gives space for resolution without demanding it immediately.
  3. Touch Before Talk
    A hand on the back, a gentle hug, or just sitting close can often soften a heart faster than an argument ever could.
  4. Pray Instead of Plot
    Instead of plotting your comeback, pray for your spouse and your own heart. Ask God to give you grace and a listening ear.
  5. Avoid the Blame Game
    Use “I feel” instead of “you always.” There’s no peace in pointing fingers; only more bruises.
  6. Choose Connection Over Control
    Don’t withhold sexual intimacy as a form of punishment. Sex isn’t a bargaining chip; it’s a gift, a healing space, and sometimes the doorway back to emotional unity.
  7. Write it Out
    If speaking feels too charged, write a heartfelt note. Sometimes the written word opens doors the spoken word can’t.

Grace and Humility: The Way Forward

Peace doesn’t mean pretending nothing happened; it means choosing grace when you could choose retaliation. It means humbling yourself, even if you weren’t “the one who started it.” Reconciliation occurs when flawed humans come together. They decide that we is more important than me.

So, take a breath. Be first to apologize. Or at least be first to reach out. Say the hard thing, but say it with love.

As you begin to patch the cracks with grace, remember this—you’re not just ending a fight. You’re building a fortress.

Next week, we’ll heat things up (in the best way). We will explore “Enticing Your Spouse.” Rebuilding intimacy after conflict is more than possible. It’s beautiful.

Until then, love hard, forgive quickly, and never stop fighting to keep your Love Fortress intact.

Chauna-Kaye Pottinger is a devoted Christian residing in sunny Orlando, Florida. As a loving wife and mother, she gracefully balances her roles with a fervent dedication to her faith. Chauna-Kaye’s heart is set on reaching Heaven, and she channels her passion into inspiring everyone she encounters to embark on the same spiritual journey. Through her blog, she shares insights, experiences, and unwavering enthusiasm for a life centered on faith and eternal purpose. Join Chauna-Kaye as she navigates the path to Heaven, encouraging others to walk alongside her in this transformative quest.

The Importance of Respect in Marriage

Welcome back to the FORTRESS series. This is a no-fluff, real-talk journey into building love that lasts. It doesn’t collapse under the weight of unspoken expectations or poorly handled conflict. In our last post, we explored Openness and Honesty, two cornerstone virtues in any healthy marriage. We talked about how vital it is to be emotionally naked with your spouse. This means not being physically exposed alone, but being spiritually and mentally available, honest, and vulnerable.

But here’s the twist no one tells you: just because you’re being honest doesn’t mean you get to be cruel. Truth without love is a weapon. Vulnerability without boundaries is a mess. And that’s why today we’re talking about Respect. Your spouse is not your emotional punching bag. They are not your built-in therapist or the final boss in your unresolved childhood trauma video game.

In my upcoming book The Love Fortress, I dedicate an entire section to this topic. Disrespect is often the silent killer of marriages. It doesn’t scream. It simmers. It hides behind sarcasm, passive aggression, stonewalling, and “I’m just being honest” comments that cut like daggers. And one of the concepts I explore is what I call The Top of the Hill vs. Bottom of the Hill dynamic.

The Hill We Die On—Or Push Someone Off Of

In some marriages, conflict turns into a hierarchy. One spouse stands on the “top of the hill” always right, always above reproach, rarely apologizing. The other lives at the “bottom of the hill,” always in trouble, always making amends, never quite good enough.

This creates a bully-victim loop. The top-dweller believes they’re simply “holding the standard,” while the bottom-dweller learns to walk on emotional eggshells just to keep the peace. That’s not peace—that’s quiet abuse.

But here’s the reality: We all mess up. Romans 3:23 reminds us that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” In marriage, that means nobody is the moral high priest. We’re both pilgrims on the same road, prone to tripping over our pride.

Why Respect Matters More Than You Think

I remember early in our marriage, after one of our now-infamous “spirited fellowships(that almost sent us in different directions,” Jaymie said something that truly stopped me in my tracks. He looked me straight in the eye and said, “As a man, I value respect even more than sex.”

Whew. That shook me.

Because up to that point, I thought I understood how to love him, but what I was giving didn’t always feel like respect to him. And nothing, he told me, kills the mood or a man’s confidence like feeling disrespected in his own home.

It was at that moment I realized that respect isn’t just a bonus in marriage; it’s oxygen. It feeds trust, honors dignity, and gives both people a safe place to thrive.

Respect is more than politeness. It’s the outward expression of your inward understanding of your spouse’s God-given dignity. Genesis 1:27 tells us that both male and female were made in the image of God. That means your spouse is not just your husband or wife—they are God’s image-bearer.

When we respect our spouse, we reflect God’s heart. When we disrespect them—especially under the guise of honesty—we fracture trust and diminish dignity.

Respect is how we communicate:

“You matter, even when I’m mad.”

“Your perspective is valid, even if I don’t agree.”

“Your soul is sacred, and I will not desecrate it with my words.”

What Respect Looks Like in Action: Practical Strategies

If you’re wondering how to bring more respect into your relationship, here are five biblical, practical strategies to get you moving:

1. Guard Your Tone, Not Just Your Words

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” — Proverbs 15:1

It’s not just what you say, it’s how you say it. Your spouse hears your tone long before they process your point. If your voice is sharp, condescending, or dismissive, your message is lost in the noise of disrespect.

2. Apologize First and Often

“Confess your faults one to another.” — James 5:16

Don’t wait for your spouse to initiate peace. Go first. This one is particularly difficult for me especially when I feel that I was the one wronged. But respect says, “I value the relationship more than my pride.” So even if you were only 20% wrong, own your 20% fully. It shifts the atmosphere.

3. Listen to Understand, Not to Win

“Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” — James 1:19

Active listening is an act of honor. When you listen to your spouse, not just their words, but their heart, you validate their experience. It’s hard to feel disrespected when you’re truly being heard.

4. Don’t Weaponize Weakness

“Love keeps no record of wrongs.” — 1 Corinthians 13:5

What your spouse told you in confidence during their vulnerable moments is not ammunition for your next argument. Respect protects. It does not exploit. It covers, not uncovers.

5. Speak Life, Not Labels

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” — Proverbs 18:21

Saying things like, “You’re just lazy,” or “You always mess things up,” is not honesty, it’s humiliation. Respect means calling out potential, not crushing identity. Critique behavior, not character.

Respect: The Fertile Ground for Intimacy

Here’s the truth: love may start a marriage, but respect is what sustains it. Without it, intimacy withers. Trust erodes. Even small conversations turn into battlefields. But where there is mutual respect, you’ll find emotional safety, healing, and a desire to grow closer.

Mutual respect re-humanizes the relationship. It affirms what Philippians 2:3 urges us to do: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.”

Respect says, “I don’t need to be better than you. I just want to build with you.”

If you’ve always found yourself on the top of the hill, it is time to come down. Meet your spouse on level ground. If you’ve been living at the bottom, silencing your voice, and apologizing for existing, it’s time to rise up. Speak truth and demand mutual dignity.

In The Love Fortress, we delve deeply into these dynamics. We uncover not only the wounds that cause them, but also the healing practices that restore them. Stay with me on this journey. Because like Rome, a great marriage isn’t built in a day, but with the right foundation—Fasting and Prayer, Openness and Honesty, and above all, Respect, your marriage can withstand any storm.

I will see you next week same time, same place as we discuss Trust as the fourth pillar of the Love Fortress.

Chauna-Kaye Pottinger a devoted Christian residing in sunny Orlando, Florida. As a loving wife and mother, she gracefully balances her roles with a fervent dedication to her faith. Chauna-Kaye’s heart is set on reaching Heaven, and she channels her passion into inspiring everyone she encounters to embark on the same spiritual journey. Through her blog, she shares insights, experiences, and unwavering enthusiasm for a life centered on faith and eternal purpose. Join Chauna-Kaye as she navigates the path to Heaven, encouraging others to walk alongside her in this transformative quest.

Starve the Distractions and Feed the Flame

By Chauna-Kaye Pottinger

Last week, in our post Building Marriages that Last, we introduced the idea of constructing a strong, fortified marriage, one that can weather storms, resist subtle attacks, and stand tall through every season. We talked about intentionality, spiritual alignment, and making God the architect of your relationship. This week, we’re diving into the very first brick that lays the foundation for a love that doesn’t just survive, but thrives. That brick? Fasting and prayer.

Let’s face it, modern marriages are under pressure. Life moves fast. Kids need things. Work demands our energy. Phones steal our attention. And before you know it, you’re in the same house, same bed, but miles apart.

Communication starts to break down. Passion starts to flicker. Resentment quietly builds. You begin to think, “Maybe we’re just in a rough patch,” but that rough patch turns into a dry season.

Here’s the spiritual truth: many of the challenges couples face are spiritual in nature; but we’re trying to fight them with natural tools. And that’s where fasting and prayer come in.

Jesus Made It Clear: Some Things Won’t Move Without It

In Mark 9:29, after the disciples tried and failed to deal with a spiritual issue, Jesus said something sobering: “This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting.” Read that again: nothing but.

There are certain strongholds in your marriage, be it emotional disconnection, recurring conflict, unforgiveness, neglect, or even just complacency, that will not budge without spiritual power. Fasting isn’t a hunger strike to get God’s attention. It’s a spiritual accelerator that clears away distractions so you can focus your heart, your prayers, and your energy on inviting God to do what only He can.

Fasting Isn’t Just About Food (Thank God)

Look, if you know me, then you know I love me some good Jamaican food. I mean, don’t come between me and a lovely bowl of chicken soup unless you’re ready for a situation. (Shhh… don’t tell anyone, but I’ve had full worship sessions thanking God for good food)

But seriously, fasting these days doesn’t have to mean giving up your favorite meal—though if God calls you to surrender the mac and cheese, I won’t argue. The heart of fasting is about giving up anything that’s been feasting on your time or focus. Whether it’s food, social media, your favorite show, or even your need to be right (oof)—it’s about realigning your heart toward God and saying, “My marriage matters more than my distractions.”

Because sometimes, what really needs starving… isn’t your stomach—it’s your schedule.

Here are some creative ways couples and individuals are fasting today:

  • Social Media Fast: Unplug from the scroll and use that time to journal, reflect, or pray for your spouse.
  • TV/Streaming Fast: Give up your go-to show for a week and replace it with intentional time together or in devotion.
  • Phone-Free Evenings: No screens after 7 p.m. means more time to talk, touch, or pray together.
  • Complaining Fast: Challenge yourself to go seven days without criticizing or complaining about your spouse. (It’s harder than you think… but so worth it.)
  • Coffee or Sugar Fast: If you’re a daily indulger, giving that up becomes a physical reminder to intercede for your marriage every time you crave it.

Remember, fasting is not about perfection—it’s about priority. You don’t need to fast flawlessly to see results. This isn’t a spiritual performance or a “holier than thou” competition. You’re not earning God’s love; you’re creating space for His presence.

The goal isn’t to check all the religious boxes or to make it through a 24-hour fast without a single hunger pang or mental slip-up. The goal is to say, “God, I’m putting You—and my marriage—at the top of my list.” It’s about intentionally pushing aside the noise, the habits, and the distractions to focus on what truly matters.

Even if you stumble, even if you start with small steps, God honors the effort. He sees the heart. And when you prioritize His presence over your preferences, He shows up in powerful ways. So don’t worry about getting it perfect. Just make it intentional.

The Love Ripple Effect

Here’s something you might not expect: when you fast and pray for your spouse, they feel it. Even if they don’t know exactly what you’re doing, the spiritual shift begins to affect the atmosphere in your home.

Imagine how it feels for your spouse to find out you’re skipping your favorite show, coffee, or even meals just to pray for them. That kind of love: sacrificial, spiritual, intentional, can spark a new level of intimacy and admiration. It tells them, “You matter to me. Our marriage matters to God. And I’m fighting for us.”

That’s how emotional walls begin to fall. That’s how broken communication starts to heal. That’s how great marriages stay great, and struggling ones begin to turn the corner.

Your Challenge This Week

Let’s build that first brick. Try this:

  1. Pick one day this week to fast.
  2. Choose one thing to give up that will help you focus.
  3. Use that time to pray specifically for your spouse and your marriage.
  4. Journal what you sense God is saying to you about your role in strengthening your love fortress.

Now that we’ve laid the foundation, we’re going to move into another powerful building block: Openness and Honesty. No fortress can stand without trust—and trust can’t grow where truth is absent. We’ll explore how to create safe spaces in your marriage where both partners can be real, vulnerable, and fully known.

Until then—skip the snack, seek the Savior, and keep building.

Because your love fortress is worth fighting for.

Chauna-Kaye Pottinger a devoted Christian residing in sunny Orlando, Florida. As a loving wife and mother, she gracefully balances her roles with a fervent dedication to her faith. Chauna-Kaye’s heart is set on reaching Heaven, and she channels her passion into inspiring everyone she encounters to embark on the same spiritual journey. Through her blog, she shares insights, experiences, and unwavering enthusiasm for a life centered on faith and eternal purpose. Join Chauna-Kaye as she navigates the path to Heaven, encouraging others to walk alongside her in this transformative quest.

Why Women Need to Quit Shrinking and Start Shining

By: Chauna-Kaye Pottinger

Let’s just call it what it is: far too many brilliant, bold, and beautiful women are dimming their light to make their husbands shine brighter. And not because they lack talent, ambition, clarity or (most importantly) faith; but because somewhere along the line, someone convinced them that their strength was a threat. That confidence is masculine, brilliance in a woman is something to be “toned down” and living out their God-ordained purpose is tethered to the way in which they support their men.

And so, the performance begins.

It’s subtle. It’s sophisticated. And at times, it’s even unconscious. But it’s happening—in kitchens, boardrooms, Bible studies, and dinner parties.

The Art of Playing Small (a.k.a. Strategic Cluelessness)

It usually starts with a smile. A deferential nod. A too-loud laugh at a not-that-funny joke. Suddenly, she’s asking how to reset the Wi-Fi, even though she’s the one who set it up in the first place. It’s not that she doesn’t know. It’s that she’s learned to make him feel like he knows best.

So she leans into performance:
“Oh honey, can you help me with this? You’re just so much better at it than I.” Translation: “I could’ve done it in 4 minutes, but I’m trying to keep you from spiraling into a confidence crisis.”

Career Acrobatics: The Backflip Into the Background

Let’s talk about ambition. She’s been offered a promotion, a big one. More money, more leadership, more visibility. But it comes with power. And with power comes tension.

So she starts to weigh it:
“If I take this, will he feel insecure?”
“Will I out-earn him? Outgrow him?”
“Will people say I wear the pants?”

Rather than risk unsettling the fragile balance, she politely steps aside. “Now’s not the right time,” she says. But it is. The problem isn’t timing—it’s social conditioning wrapped with a bow of guilt.

Emotional Labor: Where She Becomes His Life Coach

This woman isn’t just a wife—she’s a full-time ego management consultant. She doesn’t just support; she curates his reality. She minimizes her accomplishments so his seem larger. She edits her ideas so he feels smarter. She celebrates his mediocre while keeping her excellence under wraps.

Why? Because she’s been taught that protecting his pride is her job.

But here’s a question: When did marriage become a space where one must shrink for the other to feel tall?

Self-Deprecation as a Defense Mechanism

You’ve seen it—and maybe done it. “I’m so bad at math—he handles all the finances.” Or, “I don’t understand politics—I let him explain it.”
Even though she’s got the degree, the budget spreadsheet, and a folder full of receipts. But instead of owning her brilliance, she makes herself the punchline so he can be the professor.

It’s not humility—it’s survival wrapped in humor.

Faith-Based Shrinking: When Theology Becomes a Gag Order

In some religious circles, the message is even louder: He’s the head. You’re the neck. Which often gets twisted into: Speak only when spoken to. Lead only when no man is available. So even the spiritually gifted woman, the one with fire in her bones and revelation in her spirit, will sit on her hands during Bible study—while Brother John fumbles through Leviticus like it’s a Rubik’s Cube.

But while she’s busy dimming her voice, the whole room misses out. The insight she carries? The revelation she’s been sitting on? It stays locked inside—while the atmosphere stays the same. And deep down, she knows the Holy Spirit has been tugging at her heart, nudging her to speak, to share, to pour out. But she swallows it—for the sake of keeping the spotlight on him. And in doing so, she quiets not just herself, but the very move of God within her.

Performing Helplessness: The Cute Confused Act

You know the move:
“Can you open this jar for me?”
“Can you fix the printer?”
“Can you drive? I’m just not good with directions.”

Some of it is legit. But often, it’s theater. The goal? To appear soft, sweet, and dependent enough not to threaten the man she loves.

Because heaven forbid he realize… she’s actually unstoppable.

The Tragic Truth?

When a woman dims her God-given light, everyone loses.

She loses the fullness of her calling.
He loses the strength of her partnership.
The marriage loses its divine balance and power.

Because love that demands silence isn’t love—it’s a performance. And God never called His daughters to audition for acceptance. He called them to purpose.

Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.”
That includes her voice, her vision, her leadership, and her light.

And Proverbs 31? It doesn’t describe a hidden, hushed woman. It describes a woman who “opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue” (Proverbs 31:26). A woman who rises, builds, trades, teaches, and fears the Lord. That kind of woman is meant to shine.

So no, she wasn’t made to shrink behind a man. She was made to stand beside him—with power, with purpose, with divine clarity.

Because when both lights shine—hers and his—the whole house is filled with glory.

So here’s to the women who are done performing.

Who are tired of pretending they don’t know how to fix the TV.
Tired of trading dreams for domestic approval.
Tired of silencing their voice in the name of submission.

Let this be the year you stop dimming your light and start living in the full wattage of your calling.

Because a woman who shines doesn’t cast a shadow on her husband—she helps him see better.

Shine, sis. Shine so bright you light up the whole house and ultimately the world!

Chauna-Kaye Pottinger a devoted Christian residing in sunny Orlando, Florida. As a loving wife and mother, she gracefully balances her roles with a fervent dedication to her faith. Chauna-Kaye’s heart is set on reaching Heaven, and she channels her passion into inspiring everyone she encounters to embark on the same spiritual journey. Through her blog, she shares insights, experiences, and unwavering enthusiasm for a life centered on faith and eternal purpose. Join Chauna-Kaye as she navigates the path to Heaven, encouraging others to walk alongside her in this transformative quest.