Wendy DewarThe other day on Twitter, Wendy Dewar happened to mention that she and her husband had just celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary.

This is great achievement these days, and I knew that Wendy would have some great wisdom to share with you. When I asked Wendy if she would consider writing down some tips and tricks that she has applied over the years to bring her this success, she graciously accepted.

Following is her article, I know that it will be a great blessing to you.

Wendy writes:
I got married in 1975 just after I turned twenty. I am still married to the same man today. Over the years we’ve discovered and developed ways to keep our marriage a happy place. Has it been easy? Yes, and no. But there are definitely some techniques and tactics we have learned along the way that have enabled us to live happily together all these years. Here are a few tips gleaned from over three decades of marriage.

1. Be smart before you start.

The spoken word is very powerful. Proverbs 18:21 tells us: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” (English Standard Version). Wow! So with words you can bring life or kill.

This is something that is so easy to forget especially in the home where more stressful and difficult circumstances are likely to show up on a daily basis. But getting frustrated and lashing out with negative words will only make any situation worse.

Speaking out of frustration can destroy.
One thing I hate to hear at the supermarket is a parent speaking harsh or belittling words to their child. It hurts to hear it. How much more must it hurt that child that is receiving the lashing! I am sure you have heard this too.