Carrie Underwood and husband Mike Fisher had marriage troubles, but found an unexpected solution. OK! Magazine reports that George Strait helped the couple strengthen their love.

“George told them they’ve got to put each other first and not get distracted by the outside world, because what matters is right here,” the source adds. “Carrie and Mike may have never made it through the storms if it weren’t for George’s loving talks.”

Strait has been married for 52 years and Carrie and Fisher will celebrate their 13th wedding anniversary soon, with a possible ceremony to renew their vows.

“They love the idea of having a big party to recommit to each other,” the source noted. “They’re very happy right now, but there have been some hard times where they didn’t know if they would make it…So getting to where they are feels like an accomplishment, and they want to honor that.”

How did you get over the rough patch in your marriage? Share your story.

(George Strait photo courtesy of UMG Nashville/Mike Fisher Carrie Underwood photo credit: Curtis Hilbun, AFF-USA.com)