HELP FOR THE FAMILY/MARRIAGE

Conclusion of When You Are Disappointed With Your Marriage

Discern the difference between your feelings and your spouse's intentions.  Likely neither of you ever intends to hurt the other. Assure your spouse of this by sincerely apologizing for any hurt feelings you may have caused. Then discuss what specific things you both can do to avoid unwittingly causing hurt feelings. Follow the Bible's advice:  "Become kind to one another, tenderly compassionate, freely forgiving one another." -Ephesians 4:32.

Be realistic in your expectations.  The Bible acknowledges that those who marry "will have tribulation." (1 Corinthians 7:28) When you experience such tribulation, do not hastily conclude that your marriage was a mistake.  Instead, work with your mate to resolve differences  and "continue putting up with one another and forgiving one another freely." -Colossians 3:13.

KEY SCRIPTURES

* "Pursue the things making for peace." Romans 14:19.

* "Rejoice with the wife of your youth." -Proverbs 5:18.

* "Do not let the sun set while you are still angry." -Ephesians 4:26.

LIVING UP TO YOUR WEDDING VOW

Do you remember the words of your wedding vow?  Why not review them and ask yourself, 'How well am I doing in living up to what I promised?' Resist the urge to dwell on how your spouse may be doing in this regard. Your vow contains words that you expressed regarding what you would do. If each of you focuses on living up to your vow, both of you will be pleased with the results.

Next time: YOUNG PEOPLE ASK/Is This Person Right for Me?

From the jw.org publications