Commitment in Marriage: You vs. I
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
"Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church." Ephesians 4:15 NLT
Thoughts for Today
A commitment to effective communication is vital for a healthy marriage relationship. The Bible tells us to speak the truth in love. Learning how to express ourselves with "I"-messages rather than "you"-messages is a positive approach to communication when settling differences.
You-messages come across as being judgmental. "You don't care." "You are a problem." "Can't you …?" "You are so …" This type of message may cause your spouse to feel put down, rejected or unimportant. And he or she will probably respond defensively.
An I-message tells how you feel rather than pointing an accusing finger at your spouse. "I feel hurt because …" This type of message helps to communicate your feelings without strengthening the defenses of your spouse.
Consider this …
I-messages deal with facts rather than evaluation. They communicate honestly and openness and do not attack your spouse's self-esteem. Using I-messages can help you and your spouse settle differences in a more positive way and open the doors of communication in your marriage.
Prayer
Father, forgive me for the times I have spoken carelessly or unkindly to my spouse. Help me to be more honest, open … and sensitive. In Jesus' name …
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©Living Free 2020. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day® devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN, www.LivingFree.org. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending an e-mail to info@LivingFree.org