Review of "What did you expect?"

Unrealistic expectations. That’s what author Paul Tripp says has led to more disappointing and destructive marriages. Candidly, he admits that part of the reason he chose to write about this topic was because he struggled for years to understand the true nature of the marriage relationship. Tripp begins with a premise that the Bible should be taken seriously in its instructions concerning how people are to treat each other. The reality, Tripp says, is that you are conducting your marriage in a fallen world. Secondly, you’re a sinner married to a sinner. Remembering these two truths will help couples navigate the daily work required of healthy marriages. For Tripp, this means that couples should live with a “pulling weeds, planting seeds” mentality. “Perhaps one of the fundamental sins that we all commit in our marriages is the sin of inattention.” Learning to rely on the daily life-transforming grace of God for our marriages is central for Tripp. The biblical themes of worship, confession, grace, and forgiveness form the backbone for Tripp’s practical approach to maintaining a healthy and God-honoring marriage. This is an excellent book for several reasons: sound biblical doctrine is met with practical, real-life approaches to the challenges of marriage. Tripp doesn’t beat around the bush when it comes to the painful realities that many couples face. But he is equally straightforward in his presentation of how the gospel of Christ can transform our hearts as we worship God first and love our spouse with the same grace-filled love that we’ve experienced from our Creator. This is a great read for any couple, whether they are preparing for marriage or are looking to strengthen their relationship after many years together.