Key Bible Verse: Live wisely … Let your conversation be gracious and effective (Colossians 4:5, 6). Bonus Reading: Proverbs 25:15, 21-22; 29:11

I have a friend, George, whose wife, Sharon, has had a strong tendency to blame and criticize him constantly. Little things, big things, things that he has done wrong, and things that he hasn't—all have been fair game for her. George has certainly not been perfect, but in no way has his punishment fit his crimes.

George began telling Sharon, "I want to know when your feedback is true about me. But when it isn't, or when I consider your venting inappropriate, I'll go to another room or the backyard and read the paper until you can speak without being so critical." Sharon would lash out, and George would say, "Okay, I'm going now." And she would be alone in the room with no one to hear her criticisms.

Sharon was pretty set in her position and resisted seeing that any of this was her fault. But over and over again George would restate the approach he'd decided to adopt and then leave the room.

Eventually Sharon realized George wasn't being mean. He wasn't angry. He returned in a good mood and was pleasant with her. This finally got through to her, and she softened up and became less strident. Persistence, patience, and diligence are your friends with the button-pusher.

—John Townsend in Who's Pushing Your Buttons?

My Response: How could my loving, consistent patience set the stage for change?

Thought to Apply: All men make mistakes, but married men find out about them sooner. —Red Skelton (comedian)

Adapted from Who's Pushing Your Buttons? (Integrity, 2004) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, help me take the initiative in repairing any damaged relationships in my marriage.

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