Time of Grace Ministry has released a new book, Newlywed: A Christian Guide for Loving Year One, authored by Pastor Mike Novotny. The book focuses on the pivotal first year of marriage, offering Christian couples guidance on navigating common challenges such as communication, finances, in-laws, conflict, and faith. While many couples invest significant time and resources in planning a wedding, less attention is often given to the daily habits and conversations that sustain a marriage after the ceremony. Novotny's book aims to fill that gap by providing practical, biblically grounded advice for building a strong foundation.
The release comes amid broader cultural conversations about marriage. Data from Barna's The State of Today’s Family Report indicates that while 81 percent of Gen Z individuals say they value marriage, this percentage is lower than that of every other generation surveyed. This suggests a hesitancy among younger adults about the institution's importance. Pastor Novotny addresses this directly: “Marriage is one of God’s best earthly gifts. It shows up on the first pages of the Bible in the Garden of Eden. So don’t let the culture tell you that it’s some lesser thing when it deserves to be a priority.” His book counters cultural ambivalence by presenting marriage as a worthy and fulfilling commitment.
The importance of addressing the newlywed period is underscored by research. A study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family found that negative communication patterns during the newlywed years predict steeper declines in marital satisfaction over time. This highlights the critical nature of the first year in setting the trajectory for a marriage. Newlywed helps couples identify and address potential issues before frustration, silence, or resentment become entrenched patterns. By focusing on grace, humility, and purpose, the book offers a proactive approach to building a healthy marriage.
Novotny is promoting the book through various national media appearances, including Chris Fabry Live, The Reconnect with Carmen LaBerge, The Bill Arnold Show, Faith in Culture Podcast from CBN News, American Sunrise from Real America’s Voice, GoodLife, and Author’s Corner. These platforms allow him to reach a wide audience with his message. The book is particularly timely for newly married couples, engaged couples, pastors, premarital counselors, and family members seeking a meaningful wedding gift. Readers can find more information, including interview links and a free chapter download, on the Newlywed resource page.
Pastor Mike Novotny serves as lead speaker for Time of Grace and is a pastor at The CORE in Appleton, Wisconsin. He has been in full-time ministry since 2007 and has authored multiple books on faith, suffering, relationships, and difficult questions. His experience lends credibility to the practical guidance offered in Newlywed. Time of Grace, a digital ministry based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, reaches people nearly six million times per month through its television program, radio shows, social channels, emailed devotions, and print publications. The ministry's resources are designed to help people grow in faith and apply God's grace to everyday life.
Newlywed: A Christian Guide for Loving Year One is published by Straight Talk Books and is available for purchase. With its release, Novotny and Time of Grace aim to equip couples with the tools they need to navigate the joys and challenges of their first year of marriage, fostering relationships that honor God and each other.
