A real-life reminder that reconnection is often just one intentional day away.
There’s something special about a spontaneous day trip—especially when it becomes a sacred rhythm for your marriage and family. Yesterday, we decided after attending our home church Gateway Church which in itself was such a POWERFUL Easter service that we’d take one of our usual two-hour drive day trips to Charleston, SC. With Jacksonville, FL also just two hours away from us, these quick getaways have become lifelines—not just for fun, but for intentional reconnection.
Lesson 1: Make Space for Reconnection
Every couple experiences moments—or even seasons—when things feel a little off. It’s not that the love is gone, but the connection gets buried under schedules, stress, parenting, and the demands of life. We’ve learned not to panic in those seasons. Instead, we lean in and create space to reconnect.
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Just like our relationship with God needs intentional time and space, so does our marriage. That’s why we prioritize day trips like this one. Whether it’s walking through Hampton Park, strolling by the Charleston Waterfront Park, or watching the sunset over Shem Creek—these moments become sacred reconnections for us.
Lesson 2: Reignite Passion with Purposeful Moments
It might sound cliché, but passion fades when it’s not pursued. We’ve had plenty of highs and lows in our marriage. What keeps the fire alive isn’t just romance—it’s presence. Being fully present with each other in shared experiences, new environments, and meaningful conversation.
Yesterday, Easter Sunday, we made it a point to attend Seacoast Church’s brand-new 5 PM service. This church has long been one of our favorites. In fact, there was a time when we almost moved to Charleston just to be a part of it full time—it’s that impactful for us. Seeing Brandon Lake in worship on Easter was the cherry on top of an already powerful day.
“Where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20
Worshipping together, especially in a place that stirs your spirit, reawakens things in your marriage you didn’t even know were sleeping. It realigns you both to the source of your love: Christ.
Lesson 3: Don’t Let Distance Define Your Connection
One common misconception in marriage is that reconnection must happen in grand, kid-free getaways. That’s great when you can do it—but don’t underestimate the power of a simple trip with your kids. We’ve learned to reconnect as a family. Our kids don’t interrupt the bond—they witness it, and it strengthens them too.
“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” – Psalm 127:3
Yesterday wasn’t just about us—it was about all of us. We laughed, we walked, we worshiped, and we watched the sunset together. These shared experiences are helping shape the foundation of faith and family for our children.
Lesson 4: Don’t Confuse a Season for a Sentence
If your marriage feels dull right now, it’s not a death sentence—it’s just a season. Don’t throw in the towel. Don’t believe the lie that it’s supposed to feel electric 24/7. Instead, be intentional. Try something new. Go somewhere different. Create space for God to do what only He can do—restore, revive, and rekindle.
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” – Isaiah 43:19
Just like God is always working in the background, there’s always hope just around the corner in your relationship. The enemy would love for you to believe that a dull season means the end. But the truth is: that dull season might just be the beginning of a deeper connection if you’re willing to fight for it.
Final Thoughts: Yesterday was a gift. It was filled with fun, adventure, beauty, worship, and most of all—presence. Presence with each other, with our kids, and with God.
These moments remind us that strong marriages aren’t built in big moments—they’re built in small, intentional ones. So, find your version of a Charleston day trip. Do what centers you. Reconnect. Reignite. Reclaim your joy.
Because the road to a thriving marriage isn’t found in the destination—it’s found in the journey together.
Living a God-Inspired Life
Chris Benton
