Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #2 — Time Out

Picture: Counsel #2 — TIME OUT CR 97.1

Think before speaking or otherwise responding to conflict in your marriage. A lot of unhealthy communication stems from impulsive, self-centered, or angry speech. Yelling, screaming, profanity and even sarcasm are all destructive to your love. CR 97.2

In a healthy relationship, you and your partner will respond to conflict using self-control; neither suppressing your feelings nor reacting with angry outbursts and accusations.^[92] When tension is high, agree to come back to the topic at a time and place when both of you are willing to talk with less risk of hurt on either side. Consider praying together before resuming the discussion.  CR 97.3

“He who is slow to wrath has great understanding, but he who is impulsive exalts folly.” Proverbs 14:29 NKJV CR 97.4

“We must subdue a hasty temper and control our words, and in this we shall gain great victories. Unless we control our words and temper, we are slaves to Satan. We are in subjection to him. He leads us captive. All jangling and unpleasant, impatient, fretful words are an offering presented to his satanic majesty.” Ellen White in The Adventist Home, p. 437 CR 97.5

Reflect: Do you “clam up,” or yell when there is conflict in your marriage, or are you able to talk over disagreements calmly with your spouse? CR 97.6