Marriage Course - September 4, 2012

Day 18 - Conflict Resolution

Marriage

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?"

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

Related Topics: Arguments, Conflict, Marriage | More Messages from Marriage Course | Download Audio

From Series: "Marriage"

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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

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.