Relationship Strains
Relationship Strains
Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, even if some disobey the Christian message, they may be won over without a message by the way their wives live. (1 Pet. 3:1)
“Sharon, I need some advice,” I confessed to my mentor one day. “I’ve been overly critical of Joe lately, and as a result he’s been acting distant. I’ve apologized, but our relationship still seems strained. I’ve felt the Holy Spirit telling me that I need to accept Joe the way he is and show him more respect. But it’s not easy to keep my mouth shut when he’s constantly glued to the TV watching sports.”
“Have you tried sitting down with Joe while he’s watching a game? Just spending time with him would let him know you’re willing to show an interest in something he really enjoys.”
“No,” I admitted.
Sharon said, “Well, I’ll tell you from firsthand experience, showing an interest in what your husband likes should help you and Joe grow closer. It really helped Ed and me open the lines of communication again.”
Every relationship has its rough spots. If you find that you’re at a point where you’re struggling, earnestly seek God’s guidance about how you and your husband can reconnect. He promises in Psalm 32:8, “I will instruct you and show you the way to go; with My eye on you, I will give counsel.”
If you’re tempted to focus on your husband’s shortcomings, think about his strengths instead and thank God for them. If you do your best to accept him the way he is, you’ll be showing him that you value and respect him. When something bothers you about him, resist the temptation to criticize, nag, and condemn. Instead, communicate your concerns with honesty and kindness. Showing your husband love and admiration will help set your relationship on the right track.