It’s time for Monday Musings as we look at principles from the 10 commandments applied to guarding intimacy with our spouse. Not legalistic, binding laws, but principles to guide us in our decisions.
Thou shall not murder. Exodus 20:13
For couples, this might sound more like “don’t hate on each other.”
In large part this happens through our words. Proverbs 18:21 says that life and death are in the power of the tongue. Words of disrespect, anger, grumbling, discontentment, jealousy and all sorts of selfishness.
If we choose to speak life giving words we can preserve an atmosphere of intimacy. Words of kindness, encouragement and understanding. And sometimes, no words at all.
Here are 2 things to help ensure that life flourishes in our home:
Listen to their heart, not just their words. Many conflicts start or remain unresolved because we leap to conclusions, don’t clarify what we have heard or don’t trust what we know about our spouse instead of what seems apparent in the moment.
Work out your conflicts. Do what it takes to get to the bottom of things. Get help if needed. Sometimes a neutral third party can be invaluable in guiding you to a resolution. Unresolved conflicts will breed resentment that will kill the very thought of intimacy VERY quickly.
Are your words bringing life into your home?
Photo credit: www.freedigitalphotos.net // David Castillo Dominici
