‘And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, ‘ Ephesians 4:26(NLT)
Tam: The Bible encourages us with these words: “Do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger” (Ephesians 4:26). That’s one of the Scriptures that David and I turn to frequently when we are engaged in a heated argument. In every marriage this may mean something different. Some people can’t talk when they are fuming. Some people need time to hit the reset button before they try to resolve things peaceably. But David and I have decided that, at some point in the conversation, we will agree to disagree for the moment, but we will continue in the morning. I don’t want my husband to feel punished for a lifetime simply because we had one disagreement.
How often has one negative word or one misunderstood comment ruined an entire day? To me, it’s not worth it. I love my husband. And I know he loves me. So I try my best not to go to bed angry at him. Even if I don’t want to cuddle and kiss, I can at least say, “Goodnight, Daddy. I love you.”
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Where and when do you argue?
2. Have you designated an action plan for having tough conversations? Discuss with each other.
from Our Keys to Healthier Communication in Marriage by David & Tamela Mann