Freedom Come Rain

My husband and I have been married for 18 years, and throughout our journey together, we've had the privilege of managing a few small businesses. We’ve traded in eggs, ice, appliance and fixtures installations, masonry and painting jobs. Each venture, whether small or significant, has brought its own challenges and rewards, and has also given us the opportunity to teach our children about becoming self-employed. We've learnt that the realities of navigating marriage and business are often the same: requiring trust, unity, and a shared vision. With God’s help, good business practices, and a foundation of love and respect, we’ve been able to thrive both as partners in life and in work. When marriage and business intertwine, it can be a beautiful testament to the strength of your bond. Yet, it’s not without its challenges. There have been moments when the lines between business discussions and dinner conversations blurred, threatening to disrupt the harmony we’ve worked hard to build. Through prayer and intentionality, however, we’ve discovered the balance that allows our marriage to flourish, even amid the demands of business. As women, we are called to be helpmeets to our husbands (Genesis 2:18), supporting and building alongside them in every area of life, whether in the home or workplace. If you and your husband are walking this path, too, take heart. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit and practical strategies, you can strengthen your marriage, maintain the spark of romance, and succeed in your business ventures together. Let me share some of what has worked for us. God’s Blueprint for Partnership The Bible reminds us that in marriage, the two become one flesh (Mark 10:8). This unity extends beyond the home into every sphere of life, including business endeavours. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 underscores the beauty of partnership: “Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.” When God is the centre of your marriage and business, He provides the wisdom to navigate both realms. Proverbs 3:6 assures us, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” By seeking God together, you can safeguard your marriage while thriving in your joint business venture. TIPS FOR BALANCING BUSINESS AND ROMANCE 1. Set Clear Boundaries Establish specific times and spaces for business discussions. For example, agree not to discuss work while eating dinner or in the bedroom. This allows these spaces to remain a sanctuary for intimacy and relaxation. 2. Prioritise Date Nights, Birthdays, and Anniversaries Just as you schedule meetings with clients, schedule regular date nights with your spouse. Mark 6:31 reminds us of the importance of rest: “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” Use this time to reconnect emotionally and spiritually. And don’t skimp on your birthdays and wedding anniversaries. They are milestones to be treasured, and since they are naturally recurring events, you can plan your business schedule around them. 3. Communicate Openly and Respectfully Whether discussing business or personal matters with your husband, approach each conversation with grace. Ephesians 4:29 advises, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up.” Encouraging words foster love and unity. 4. Pray Together Always Before making business decisions or resolving conflicts, pray together. Matthew 18:19 says, “Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.” Prayer invites God’s presence into every situation. 5. Celebrate Your Husband’s Role Acknowledge and appreciate the unique contributions your husband brings to the business and marriage. Proverbs 31:11-12 highlights the trust and value of a virtuous wife: “The heart of her husband trusts in her... She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.” 6. Create a Vision Board Together Aligning your goals ensures unity in both your personal and professional lives. Habakkuk 2:2 encourages writing the vision and making it plain. Women tend to love documenting details, so for starters, grab your pen and notebook–a shared vision keeps you focused and connected. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S ROLE IN YOUR PARTNERSHIP Navigating the dual roles of spouse and business partner has taught my husband and me the importance of leaning on the wisdom, patience, and love that only the Holy Spirit can provide (Galatians 5:22-23). Over the years, we’ve seen how inviting the Holy Spirit into every decision, whether in business or our relationship, brings clarity, unity, and peace. It’s His guidance that has kept us anchored through challenges and has helped us celebrate our victories with gratitude and grace. A CALL TO US WOMEN Ladies, if you’re managing both marriage and business, know that you are not alone. God has given you the strength and wisdom to balance these roles beautifully. Through prayer, open communication, and intentional time together, you can nurture your relationship while building a thriving business alongside your husband. My 18-year journey with my husband has shown us that marriage is more than just a union—it’s a ministry. And when you invite God to be at the centre of your marriage and business journey, your partnership becomes a powerful testimony of His faithfulness. Let your journey inspire others to see what it truly means to be “heirs together of the grace of life.” (1 Peter 3:7) So, stay intentional. Stay prayerful. And most importantly, stay in love. With God’s help, you and your husband can thrive together in every area of life. Grace-Anna Baugh-Osbourne has been a devoted Christian for over 25 years. A wife and mother, she is also a Jamaican educator, pastor, counselor, and mentor with a passion for empowering others.

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