FamilyLife Today®

One-Star Reviews - The Wild Ride of a Vertical Marriage: Dave and Ann Wilson

Apr 24, 2025

25:06

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Quick takeaways

Dave and Ann Wilson emphasize that criticism in marriage can create feelings of frustration, necessitating open communication and recognition of individual behaviors for restoration.

The podcast discusses how misinterpretation of marriage literature as promoting sexism underscores the importance of mutual respect and clearer communication within relationships.

Deep dives

Understanding Criticism in Marriage

Criticism can undermine a marriage, as demonstrated by an experience where one spouse felt that their every action was met with critique from the other. This dynamic leads to feelings of frustration and can create an atmosphere where one partner feels undervalued or unappreciated. Recognizing this pattern is crucial for restoring balance in the relationship. Both partners need to address their behaviors and consider how their actions affect one another, which can significantly improve marital health.

Intro

2min

Unpacking One-Star Reviews

5min

Navigating Love and Respect in Challenging Marriages

2min

The Power of Conduct and Submission in Marriage

2min

Navigating Marital Struggles

12min

Finding Hope and Responsibility in Marriage

3min

In this episode, Dave and Ann Wilson reflect on the journey of their book "Vertical Marriage," sharing both the highs and lows of public feedback. The episode takes a playful and light-hearted approach to discuss the one-star reviews they received on the book, focusing on those that are negative or critical in nature. The hosts make fun of some outlandish reviews, like one that claims reading the book was less satisfying than slamming a body part in a car door, while also acknowledging reviews that stem from real pain and misunderstanding.

One review they address highlights concerns about the book’s portrayal of gender roles in marriage, with the reviewer claiming it promotes "sexist propaganda." The hosts discuss this critique openly, clarifying their intent and emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and love in marriage. They touch on the sensitive issue of how their message may have been misinterpreted, especially by women who feel disrespected by their husbands or burdened by unrealistic expectations.

Throughout the episode, they dive deeper into the motivations behind their book, explaining that it’s not a self-help guide but rather a tool to help couples apply the gospel to their marriage. They discuss how the teachings in the book are based on biblical principles of love, respect, and mutual submission, particularly focusing on the idea that only through Christ can a marriage truly thrive. They also reflect on the importance of repentance in a marriage and the role it plays in healing and growth.

One particularly emotional moment occurs when they discuss the personal impact of marriage struggles. They recount a past moment where Dave, in the midst of a marital challenge, humbled himself by kneeling and repenting before his wife, Ann, which allowed their relationship to heal. This is presented as a poignant example of the power of humility and surrender in marriage.

The episode closes with a prayer for couples who are struggling, offering hope for those who may feel exhausted or hopeless in their marriages. The hosts encourage listeners to get the book and reflect on their own relationships, reminding them that true change comes through a relationship with God, not through relying on self-help advice alone.

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