Question:

I have been married for 22 years. My wife says she doesn't know if she wants to stay married. She is not sure she ever loved me in a passionate way, but she does love me. Is this possible to love one way and not the other? Any ideas on how to restore a marriage where she doesn't believe she ever loved me in a passionate way?

Answer:

Thanks for your question. Love is certainly more than romance and passion. In the day to day of life - it is possible not to feel passionate about one's spouse, since so much of love is about commitment and action - an unconditional acceptance and doing whatever is in the best interest of your spouse. So, to answer your question I do believe it is possible to love without romantic passion.

Having said this, let me also say even though spouses may not feel romance/passion toward each other all of the time, it still is a key component to a great marriage.

Although your wife is clearly struggling right now with the concept of love - I certainly believe that your marriage can be restored. I believe that God desires for you to have a great marriage - and He is able to restore it. This, however, will not be without commitment and work on both you and your spouse's part. My strong advice is that you seek the help of a professional Christian counselor in your area.

Lastly, pray! Never underestimate the power of prayer in your marriage!

Blessings,

The HomeWord Team