The Power of Gratitude & Peace in Unexpected Storms (Bonus Episode)
Welcome back to The Noble Marriage, where Travis and Adelle have real, raw, and relatable conversations about marriage and life. In this special bonus episode, following Episode 9 on PTSD, Travis and Adelle share an unscripted, deeply personal look into their recent struggles, highlighting the power of gratitude and faith in navigating life's unexpected challenges.
The Power of Gratitude
The episode opens with a discussion on the transformative power of gratitude, distinguishing it from mere "thank yous." Adelle and Travis emphasize that true gratitude is a heart-level appreciation that cultivates a positive mindset, citing the Gottman Institute's 20:1 ratio (20 positive interactions for every 1 negative) for a thriving marriage. They underscore that negativity and gratitude cannot coexist, making gratitude an essential practice even when it feels difficult.
Navigating a Recent Panic Attack
Travis bravely shares his experience of having a panic attack the day before recording, his first in years. He describes it as a confusing experience given his current spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical health, but views it as a significant opportunity from God to connect deeply with the topic of PTSD for the upcoming Episode 10, allowing for a more relatable message. Adelle expresses profound gratitude for Travis's transparency during his panic attack and observes how he navigated it differently than in the past, immediately turning to God in prayer. She notes his "smooth exit" from the attack, attributing it to his swift surrender to the Lord.
Real-Life Struggles and Grace
Adelle also shares her own struggle with losing patience the previous night amidst overwhelming circumstances, including their daughter being sick. She thanks Travis for his grace and support, which helped her shift her perspective. Travis views these challenges as "opportunity days" to practice the fruit of the Spirit (love, peace, patience, self-control, faithfulness, goodness, and kindness).
Releasing Worries and Embracing Peace
They encourage listeners to reflect on anxieties and worries they need to release to the Lord, especially for those who have experienced betrayal in relationships, or a "betrayal of God"—a feeling that God won't show up. They explain that surrendering control doesn't erase difficult circumstances but invites God's supernatural peace to guard your heart and mind. Travis shares powerful insights from Philippians 4:6-8, advising listeners not to be anxious about anything, but to bring their requests to God with prayer, petition, and thanksgiving. He testifies that God's "peace that surpasses all understanding" will guard hearts and minds, just as he experienced it. He also encourages focusing on what is good, noble, praiseworthy, and excellent.
Borrow Our Hope
Travis and Adelle conclude by inviting listeners to "borrow their hope and trust" in God, sharing their personal testimony of God's faithfulness and encouraging others to ask God for help, reminding them, "we have not because we ask not."
Key Takeaway: This raw and deeply personal bonus episode offers a powerful testament to how intentional gratitude, vulnerability, and a profound faith in God can provide supernatural peace and resilience, even when facing life's most challenging and unexpected moments.
Call to Action: What anxieties or struggles do you need to release to the Lord today to receive His supernatural peace? Let us know in the comments. Don't miss Episode 10, where Travis will go deeper into his journey with PTSD and mental health, providing valuable insights and encouragement.
