Every marriage encounters some sort of conflict. A husband and wife disagree, and sometimes it results in a terrible argument. This can escalate into a fight. Many factors could ignite a dispute. Perhaps it’s as simple as deciding a decision, an issue with a past relationship with your ex. It may be with finances, problems on your job, and you expect support from your spouse. It may be even your mother-in-law. Whatever the problem is, your children are watching and are learning from your actions.
The Bible teaches us to get angry but not to sin. "Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry—but don’t use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don’t stay angry. Don’t go to bed angry. Don’t give the Devil that kind of foothold in your life."
(Ephesians 4:26-27, MSG). Conflict is normal but you must choose to resolve it without causing emotional harm to your spouse. When tempers flare up, someone must choose to calm down and apply the wisdom of God.
Consider applying these 13 Conflict Resolutions.
As stated before, never argue or humiliate your spouse in front of your children or others.
Admit to what you did wrong to contribute to the argument and forgive. Never go to bed angry.
Avoid taking things personally.
Be sensitive to the needs of your spouse. Get at the heart of the matter.
Admit that you are not always correct and apply shut mouth grace and not exacerbate the matter. Avoid provoking your spouse to anger.
Respect each other’s differences and stop expecting your spouse to fulfill unrealistic expectations such as making you happy.
Learn to really listen to each other. Listen with an open mind and a heart of compassion.
If you know something irritates your spouse put forth your best effort not to do it.
Spend some time alone, think about how you want your spouse to treat you and do so to your spouse.
Refuse to expect your spouse to listen to you grumble and complain about problems outside your marriage. Your spouse is not the garbage disposal. Hence, never overburden the love of your life with such an unnecessary discussion.
Never bring up your past relationships. If the past is over, let it be over. In a word, stop dwelling on the past.
Come to an agreement to find a resolution you both can agree upon.
If you are unable to agree on a win-win solution, seek counsel from your Pastor, counselor, or a wise mentor.
Beloved, trust God and let go of your will to have everything your way. Dear Friend, stop expecting your spouse to live up to your expectations or be responsible for your total happiness. Allow the Lord to change your heart, mind, and soul so your marriage an example of God’s unconditional love.
I pray the song; You Got Me by Steven Curtis Chapman rekindles the flames in your marriage.
Please encourage someone today. Leave a comment, hit that heart, and share how this devotional inspired you.
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