{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Ep. 158: Breaking the Usual Error \u2014 How Assumptions Sabotage Your Marriage and What God Says About It","description":"Have you ever caught yourself assuming you knew what your spouse was thinking or feeling\u2014only to find out you were completely wrong? That\u2019s what we call \u201cThe Usual Error\u201d\u2014and it\u2019s one of the most common causes of conflict, hurt, and disconnection in marriage. In this episode, we\u2019ll unpack what the Bible says about making assumptions, why they\u2019re biblically unwise, and how to replace them with curiosity, humility, and God\u2019s wisdom to strengthen your marriage.   What You\u2019ll Learn in This Episode 1. What the Usual Error Is and Why It Hurts Marriage How assumptions create false narratives and unspoken expectations Why acting on unproven beliefs leads to miscommunication   2. Why Making Assumptions Can Be Spiritually Dangerous It\u2019s based on what\u2019s unproven \u2192 Leads to wrong conclusions It shows a lack of wisdom \u2192 Proverbs 18:2: \u201cA fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.\u201d It causes division \u2192 Misunderstandings breed resentment and distance It reflects pride \u2192 Assuming we know our spouse\u2019s motives takes God\u2019s place as the only One who sees hearts   3. What the Bible Encourages Instead Practice humility and patience (Ephesians 4:2-3): Bear with one another in love Seek truth and discernment (Philippians 4:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:21): Think on what is true and test everything   4. How to Break the Usual Error in Marriage Practical tools to shift from assumption to understanding: Pause before reacting: \u201cDo I have proof, or am I assuming?\u201d Ask clarifying questions instead of assigning motives Practice reflective listening to ensure you\u2019ve heard your spouse correctly Invite God into the conversation through prayer and patience   5. Encouragement and Hope Marriage is strengthened when you replace assumptions with curiosity and humility. Unity grows when you trust God more than your perceptions, opening the door for deeper connection, grace, and peace. ","author_name":"Expedition Marriage with Chris & Jamie Bailey","author_url":"http:\/\/expeditionmarriage.org\/podcast-2","html":"