Tony and Bre Wood, hosts of the Date Night with the Woods podcast, join E.Z., Mark, and Oscar to discuss their new book on marriage and family. The idea for the book came after a publisher, inspired by their podcast, suggested they put their insights into writing. Writing the book deepened their understanding of marriage’s sanctifying nature, allowing them to laugh at past challenges and reflect on how God uses marriage for holiness rather than just happiness.

The guys, along with Tony and Bre, talk about marriage as a tool for sanctification, fulfilling God’s call for companionship and mutual growth. They encourage couples to view marriage as a lifelong friendship, prioritizing the needs of their spouse and embracing selflessness over personal gain. Bre highlights the importance of discipleship for wives, urging women to seek guidance from older, godly mentors. Feminist ideals often conflict with biblical roles, creating competition instead of support within marriages. Bre and Tony share how scripture and discipleship transformed their own relationship.

Selfishness undermines marriage. Couples are encouraged to say something encouraging to their spouse daily, celebrate small victories, and build a framework for forgiveness. Intentionality is key—valuable relationships require work, prayer, and scripture. Tony shared a personal practice of writing thoughts about his day on his arm to share with Bre, illustrating the importance of thoughtfulness. They also stress the importance of conflict resolution, addressing issues like finances or resentment constructively and without delay.

For wives who feel their efforts won’t matter unless their husband changes, Bre advises looking to Christ’s example of love. Husbands should model sacrificial leadership, laying down their lives in small ways to reflect Christ’s love. Obedience to God is central. Repentance, confession, and grace can heal even deeply strained marriages, with the gospel at the center of reconciliation. Tony and Bre highlight how marriage impacts parenting and family life. A gospel-centered marriage provides a solid foundation for raising children. Bre shares how modeling forgiveness and scriptural authority has positively shaped their children’s understanding of family and faith. Apologizing to children when wrong demonstrates what it means to live with God at the center.

God’s grace will sustain through weaknesses, and the guys, along with Tony and Bre, encourage couples to lean on the gospel, community, and Christ’s transformative power in every aspect of marriage and family life.