How to Protect & Nature Your Marriage

10/16/23 – 10/20/23

Communication in Marriage

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  10/19/23

Problems of selfishness and unforgiveness can be obvious problems in a relationship. But there are also enemies that stealthily creep into a marriage like a choking vine. Busy schedules, apathy, and even exhaustion can lead to a breakdown of communication.

When communication breaks down between husband and wife, Satan is always waiting in the wings. Then what often takes place is a power struggle, the silent treatment, or deception.

How many hours—or minutes—did you spend this week engaged in conversation or activity with your spouse that did not revolve around working on the family budget, talking about the children, or watching TV?

Many of the larger problems in marriage stem from poor conversations. And poor conversations stem from not making the time for our spouse, letting the children come before the marriage relationship, and from a fear of conflict. But good conversations will involve a positive exchange, allowing for growth in a relationship.

Maintaining the components of the three-legged stool of marriage is not easy. We will always be competing against our sinful, selfish nature. We will always be seeking God’s strength to forgive. And we will often struggle to find balance between our calendars and our marriage. But if you keep Christ at the center of your marriage and strive to maintain the three-legged stool, you will discover the blessings of marriage.

Prayer: God, show me how I can improve communication in my marriage. I need Your help to be the godly spouse I should be. Help me to keep You at the center of my marriage and to be on guard against selfishness, quick to forgive, and vigilant to communicate. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, . . .” (James 1:19).