A good marriage

A good marriage is the union of two good forgivers.  

– Ruth Bell Graham

The Power of God

In conflict, choose humility, so that the power of God can work (James 4:6). 

Mark Pettis

How to Argue

The choice (The enemy infuses pride.  Try to separate your spouse from the enemy).

Listen.

Understand.

Validate.

Empathize.

Understanding begins when judgement is withheld.

Mark Pettis

Healthy conflicts

Healthy conflicts lead to healthy relationships.

A. Never fight in public.

B. Don't yell.

C. Don't shut down.

Mark Pettis

How to Fight Fair

1.  Never put off a misunderstanding.

2.  Never call names.

3.  Never raise your voice. 

4.  Never get historical or bring up past mistakes.

5.  Never say never or always.

6.  Never threaten divorce. 

Chris Hodges, Church of the Highlands

https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/media/message/uncommon-conflict

 

Four Ways to Deal with Conflict

(Romans 12:2 NLT) Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, 

but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. 

Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

Four Causes of Conflict

1. Poor communication. 

(Psalm 141:3) Set a guard over my mouth, O LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips.

2. Unfulfilled expectations.  

(James 4:1-2) What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? 

3. Despising differences. 

(Mark 3:25) If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. 

4. The Sin nature.

(Romans 3:23 NLT) For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.

Four Ways to Deal with Conflict

1. My way

Proverbs 14:12 (NKJV)

12 There is a way that seems right to a man,
But its end is the way of death.

2. Your way.

James 1:19 (ICB)

My dear brothers, always be willing to listen and slow to speak. Do not become angry easily.

3. Half way.

Romans 12:16  (ICB)

Live together in peace with each other. Do not be proud, but make friends with those who seem unimportant. Do not think how smart you are.

4. God's way

Proverbs 3:5  (ICB)

Trust the Lord with all your heart.
    Don’t depend on your own understanding.

James 1:5  (NLT)

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.

I cannot change my circumstances until I let God change me. 

Chris Hodges, Church of the Highlands

https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/media/message/uncommon-conflict