Most people recognize the four-word phrase that changed history itself: “I have a dream!”, but few know the story of how those words came to be.

On that historic day at the end of August 1963, in front of 250,000 supporters, Martin Luther King Jr. was building to the climax of his speech when he hesitated. Despite carefully scripting each word the night before, the phrase he had planned to deliver next felt stiff.

Sensing the moment slipping, gospel singer Mahalia Jackson called out, “Tell them about the dream, Martin!”

King paused, looked at the crowd, and made a split-second decision to abandon his script. In that moment, and he launched into one of the most iconic speeches in history.

WORDS SHAPE HISTORY

Mahalia Jackson likely had no idea how her six simple words would change the course of history. Yet, they were exactly what Martin Luther King Jr. needed to shift gears, find his rhythm, and give the world his unforgettable “I have a dream” speech.

Words lift. Words inspire. Words create new possibilities. Words instill confidence. And words have the power to impact the hearer with either life or death. Solomon, in Proverbs 18:21 (CEV) said, “Words can bring death or life! Talk too much, and you will eat everything you say.”

In a marriage, just a few intentional and thoughtful words can transform a moment, a perspective, or even the future.

7 POWER PHRASES FOR YOUR MARRIAGE

Here are seven powerful phrases you can use to deepen connection, foster understanding, and strengthen your marriage:

1. "How is your soul?"

This question is packed with emotional, relational, and spiritual energy. By asking it, you’re saying, “I see you. I care about what’s happening beneath the surface, and want to go deeper with you!”

2. "What can I do to help?"

Instead of rushing to fix your partner’s struggles, this phrase communicates, “I’m here for you. These challenges are yours to face, but I’m ready to support you in any way you need.” These six words radiate selflessness, attentiveness, and love

3. "I choose you!"

This phrase is especially powerful when another option—like a work opportunity, social event, or screen time—is competing for attention. Saying, “I choose you over this other option!” acknowledges the tension and reassures your spouse of their importance. It’s a simple yet profound gesture of love.

4. "Tell me more about that."

Many spouses feel unheard because their stories are met with half-hearted attention or quickly redirected conversations. Instead, lean in and say, “Tell me more about that.” This phrase shows genuine interest and invites deeper connection.

5. "What do you think?"

Sadly, many spouses have never heard this phrase because in conflicts, most words are spent trying to prove a point. This phrase flips the script by saying, “I value your perspective and want to solve this together.” Use it in your next disagreement—you might just surprise your spouse (in the best way)!

6. "Can we hit the reset button?"

This phrase, borrowed from my daughter and son-in-law, offers a graceful way to restart a conversation gone wrong. It says, “We both got a little too heated. Let’s try again with a fresh start and open hearts.”

7. "I’m sorry. I was wrong. Please forgive me."

This trio of humility, accountability, and vulnerability can repair trust and strengthen your bond like few phrases can. It signals that your spouse matters more than being right and paves the way for reconciliation.

USE YOUR WORDS

Mahalia Jackson’s words wouldn’t have mattered if she had merely thought, “Tell them about the dream, Martin.” It was her boldness to speak them aloud that sparked a movement and left an enduring legacy.

In the same way, these power phrases can only transform your marriage if you put them into practice. Use them intentionally, and watch your relationship thrive.

FUEL & SPARK

Q: Which of the 7 power phrases resonates most with you? Why do you feel drawn to that particular phrase?

Q: If you were to try incorporating two of these phrases into your relationship, which ones would you choose, and why?

Q: Have you identified any personal power phrases not included in the list? What words or phrases bring encouragement and inspiration to your marriage?

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