EXPEDITION MARRIAGE: When the Past Shows Up Uninvited – Understanding Implicit Memory in Marriage

Maybe something small set you off, or a simple disagreement left you feeling anxious, shut down, or angry—and you didn’t know why. Chances are, your implicit memory was doing the talking.

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Chris and Jamie Bailey
Chris and Jamie Bailey
EXPEDITION MARRIAGE: When the Past Shows Up Uninvited - Understanding Implicit Memory in Marriage
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THE EXPEDITION MARRIAGE PODCAST

WITH HOSTS CHRIS AND JAMIE BAILEY

AUDIO PODCAST

Have you ever reacted to your spouse in a way that felt a little too big for the moment? Maybe something small set you off, or a simple disagreement left you feeling anxious, shut down, or angry—and you didn’t know why.

Chances are, your implicit memory was doing the talking.

In this episode, we’re diving into what implicit memory is, how it quietly shapes your responses, and how it can impact your marriage—especially when it goes unrecognized. But don’t worry—we’re also talking about how healing and understanding can take its place.

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

  • What implicit memory is and why it matters in marriage
  • How your past (even the unspoken parts) shows up in your present relationship
  • Why your spouse’s reactions may not be about you—and how to not take them personally
  • Biblical encouragement for healing and renewing your mind
  • Practical steps to move from triggered to transformed

🛠️ Helpful Tools:

  • Recognize your “emotional cues” and learn how to pause before reacting
  • Grow in compassion—for your spouse and yourself
  • Learn how to bring your past to the Lord and invite Him into your healing

📖 Scripture Encouragement:

  • Romans 12:2 – “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
  • Psalm 139:23–24 – “Search me, God, and know my heart…”
  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 – “Take every thought captive…”

❤️ Episode CTA:

If something from your past is showing up uninvited in your marriage, it’s not too late to understand it—and heal. You’re not broken. You’re human. And there is so much hope when we bring our whole selves, past included, to Jesus.

📝 Consider journaling or praying through this week:

“Lord, show me where I’m reacting from my past instead of responding with Your truth.”

And if this episode blessed you, share it with a friend—or your spouse—and start the conversation together.

https://expeditionmarriage.org/podcast/ep-140-when-the-past-shows-up-uninvited-understanding-implicit-memory-in-marriage


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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The views and opinions expressed by Kingdom Winds Collective Members, authors, and contributors are their own and do not represent the views of Kingdom Winds LLC.

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.