Trials don’t just break hearts. They break marriages. Or try to. We’ve walked that road ourselves, and we know the weight of it all too well.
Last year we sat down with our good friends Andrew and Jamie Wommack on their “Grace & Faith Today” show. We recently turned this interview into two powerful podcast episodes: “Holding On When Everything Falls Apart” and “When Faith Is Tested.” We dove deep into our story of loss, clinging to faith, and emerging stronger. But one question from Andrew hit hard: “Was this a strain on your marriage?”
The answer? Yes. And no. Grief tests every fiber of your being—your faith, your resilience, your relationships. But it doesn’t have to destroy what matters most.
That very night, right after our son’s funeral, a pastor friend pulled us aside in the quiet chaos. He warned us of the enemy’s tactics, to drive couples apart after losing a child, and to guard our hearts fiercely. Those words echoed into our pain, a reminder that the enemy thrives on isolation and division.
He was spot on, and we experienced it. Satan exploits our vulnerabilities, turning shared sorrow into silent battles. Grief amplifies differences: one spouse withdraws, the other pushes; exhaustion sets in; resentments grow.
Left unchecked, those weakened places become big problems.
But here’s the hope: You can fight for your marriage. We’ve lived it, and God’s Word has been our anchor. Below are three practical, battle-tested steps to protect your marriage in the midst of the storm—rooted in Scripture and hard-won wisdom.
- #1 Spot the trap. Recognize it’s not you against your spouse—it’s a spiritual battle. Ephesians 6:12 declares, “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world.” Recognize the enemy’s tactics early. Pray together. Stand firm together. Refuse to let division find a place to take hold.
- #2 See the shared wound. Charlie said it this way: “I had to intentionally view Jill not just as my wife, but as a grieving mother who lost her boy.” This perspective shift breeds empathy over frustration. As Colossians 3:13 urges, “Bear with each other and forgive one another, if any of you has a grievance against someone.” Grace pours out when you truly see each other’s pain.
- #3 Work together & Talk it out. Silence is a killer in grief—it erodes connection from the inside. Open up about the raw, messy feelings, even when words fail. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Don’t go it alone; seek counseling, find a safe friend, or join a small group to help you process – there is strength in numbers.
Just to reiterate –– If you’re walking through grief together… it’s not easy.
AND YET… for us, it’s forged a stronger marriage—one built on deeper trust, raw honesty, and unshakeable faith. That’s our prayer for you: When trials hit, may they draw you closer, not apart. God’s grace will carry you through these hard times.
Missions don’t move alone. They need hands, hearts, and hope-bearers.
Last year, we launched Hope Partners—our community of faithful supporters who fuel this work of sharing worship, resources, and God’s comfort with grieving souls worldwide. From podcast episodes to grief tools, livestreams to online gatherings, your partnership makes it possible to reach the isolated, the forgotten, the overwhelmed.
Today? We are blessed to be 89 Hope-Partners strong –– Each one a vital link in carrying this mission forward! Join and let’s reach 100 by the end of this month!
To our Hope Partners: Thank you. Deeply. We pray for you, bringing you before the Father. Your generosity echoes in stories like these:
“Your music breathed life into me during my darkest days.” (Tricia S.)
“Thank you for giving Christians permission to grieve.” (Bruce C.)
You’re not just donors—you’re family, bringing comfort to families, peace to the anxious, hope to those who are alone.
Ready to join? Still curious? Dive in here:
Hope Partners unlocking quarterly updates, early access, special bonuses, and more. Together, we’re healing broken hearts—one step of faith at a time.
READY FOR 2026: Finding Hope in Every Season
We’re charged up for 2026. We’re working on new guests for the podcast. More events on the horizon. A brand-new grief course in the works. And here’s to our 45th year in ministry together—still standing, still serving.
Because in 2026… it’s all about Finding Hope in Jesus and His Word, in every season of life.
Join us. The best is ahead.
To learn more about walking through grief—and to help others survive the pain of loss—order our book: When Loss Comes Close to Home: Finding Hope to Carry On When Death Turns Your World Upside Down.
Whether you’re grieving or walking beside someone who is, our brand new USB, “The God Of All Comfort” offers real hope, real help, and heartfelt wisdom.
Join us for a time of comfort and encouragement on the Finding Hope Podcast with Charlie & Jill LeBlanc, Getting Through What You Never Asked For.
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As a special gift, we’d love to share some free resources with you!
These resources have been designed to bring comfort and support
for grievers and those who walk alongside them.
Subscribe below to receive yours.
These FREE resources have been designed to bring comfort and support for grievers and those who walk alongside them.
Subscribe below to receive yours.