Marriage Course - August 19, 2012

Day 3 - The First and Second Seasons of Marriage - Spring and Summer

The four seasons of marriage (not every marriage will go through each stage, but the principles apply to all marriages) Spring
• early years of marriage
• season of discovery and excitement
• initial infatuation will wear off at some stage
• the greatest need is to accept each other

Summer
• season of increased activity and demands
• may become parents during this season
• may face pressures of infertility
• careers can be more demanding
• the greatest need is to give time to the marriage relationship

Question:Reflect on what you've heard so far. Talk together about the pressures you've worked through until now in your relationship, and the pressures you're currently facing.

From Series: "Marriage"

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Why is some conflict inevitable in every marriage?

  • we are different-different backgrounds, priorities, desires, personalities, opinions
  • no good trying to force our partner to do things our way
  • must see ourselves as being on the same side (3-legged race)
  • we are naturally self-centered
  • need to ask ourselves, “Are there ways I need to change for the sake of our partnership?”

Does the inevitability of conflict in marriage surprise you?  Why?  How does it challenge or affirm your approach to conflict?