EXPEDITION MARRIAGE: When Marriage Hurts - Why Joy Still Matters

Chris and Jamie Bailey

EXPEDITION MARRIAGE: When Marriage Hurts - Why Joy Still Matters

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THE EXPEDITION MARRIAGE PODCAST

WITH HOSTS CHRIS AND JAMIE BAILEY

AUDIO PODCAST

When your marriage is in a painful season, joy might feel like the last thing on your mind. But what if those small, lighthearted moments are not only possible—but essential for healing? In this episode, we’re talking about why joy still matters in marriage, even when things hurt.

You’ll discover how laughter, rest, and simply enjoying each other can soften hearts, reduce tension, and remind your relationship that hope is not lost.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

The reality of pain in marriage and how the brain processes emotional hurt as real and exhausting.
Why joy is medicine—how laughter, fun, and rest release chemicals that calm stress and build safety.
Biblical wisdom on joy, including Proverbs 17:22 (“A cheerful heart is good medicine”) and Nehemiah 8:10 (“The joy of the Lord is your strength”).
Practical ways to bring joy back—from watching a funny movie to taking a break from “working” on everything and just being together.
How choosing joy and rest builds resilience and reminds you that healing is still possible.

Scripture Encouragement

Proverbs 17:22 – “A cheerful heart is good medicine.”
Nehemiah 8:10 – “The joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Psalm 16:11 – “In Your presence there is fullness of joy.”

Call to Action

This week, don’t focus only on what needs to be fixed—make space to simply enjoy each other. Recreate a joyful memory or try something lighthearted and new.

Links mentioned on the show:

Not Your Average Man (NYAM) PODCAST https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/not-your-average-man/id1640507187

30-Day Praying for your Husband https://expeditionmarriage.org/30-day-praying-for-your-husband-challenge/

30-Day Praying for your Wife https://expeditionmarriage.org/30-day-praying-for-your-wife-challenge/

Newlywed Couples Devotional https://expeditionmarriage.org/newlywed-couples-devotional/

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About the Author

Chris and Jamie Bailey are professional Christian counselors and marriage coaches. They run their private practice as well as online ministry, Expedition Marriage, from their home in Fort Mill, SC. They are the parents of three adult daughters and two adorable grandchildren. Together they run weekend marriage retreats, offer guest speaking, one day seminars, as well as run workshops in person and online. Together they hope to encourage Christian marriages and help them thrive abundantly.

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