Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture
"Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out." Colossians 4:6 MSG
Thoughts for Today
Communicating with I-messages rather than you-messages is one key to successful communication in marriage and in any relationship.
You-messages sound like this: You just don't care You are a problem Can't you? You are sooo
I-messages deal with facts. They convey what you feel or how your spouse's behavior is affecting you. Here are some examples: I feel very angry because I feel rejected because I feel hurt because
Consider this
I-messages communicate honesty and openness. The Bible teaches us to build up, not tear down. When we use I-messages, we are less likely to harm our marriage relationship since we aren't attacking our spouse's self-esteem. We are being gracious in our speech.
Prayer
Father, help me to be more gracious in communicating with my spouse. Help me to build up and not tear down. In Jesus' name
These thoughts were drawn from
Committed Couples: God's Plan for Marriage & the Family by Dr. Jimmy Ray Lee. Whether in a private or group setting, couples will be encouraged spiritually and romantically as they research biblical principles that affirm their vows. This book can help every married couple grow spiritually and emotionally in their relationship. It is also a great help for engaged-to-be-married couples.
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