102 | When ‘I Love You’ Has Lost Its Meaning: Try This Instead After Betrayal

2025-04-21

In this raw and emotional episode, we dive into the painful reality of how the phrase “I love you” can feel hollow and even triggering after sexual betrayal in marriage. When those same words were whispered to someone outside the covenant, they lose their sacred weight—leaving the betrayed spouse questioning their truth. We explore the agony of speaking (or hearing) “I love you” when trust has been shattered, and why those words may no longer feel safe. But there is hope. Healing is absolutely possible through God...

In this raw and emotional episode, we dive into the painful reality of how the phrase “I love you” can feel hollow and even triggering after sexual betrayal in marriage.

When those same words were whispered to someone outside the covenant, they lose their sacred weight—leaving the betrayed spouse questioning their truth. We explore the agony of speaking (or hearing) “I love you” when trust has been shattered, and why those words may no longer feel safe.

But there is hope. Healing is absolutely possible through God’s redemptive power and the hard, daily work of recovery. We discuss how couples can rebuild trust, not with empty words, but with actions that prove commitment over time.

And we reveal a new approach we’re testing: replacing “I love you” with “I choose you”—a deliberate declaration of fidelity, even when feelings are messy.

You’re not alone in this struggle. If “I love you” stings right now, it’s okay. Healing starts with honesty, humility, and a willingness to rebuild—one faithful choice at a time.

We pray this blesses you,

Johnny and Emily

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RELATED EPISODES:

Episode 64. 5 Things a Betrayed Wife Needs From Her Recovering Husband (Series)

Episode 78. Forgiving the “Other Woman” - A Path to Peace After Sexual Betrayal Trauma

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