How to solve relationship difficulties

Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 13: 4 – 5 –“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud 5 or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.”

The Word for Today devotional by United Christian Broadcasters (UCB) says

Here are some pointers to help you solve your relationship difficulties:

1. When it’s about money. How you manage money within a marriage depends on the set of skills you’ve developed and the amount of discipline you’ve exercised. One of you may be a saver and the other a spender.

So you have to work together to make joint decisions that affect both of you, and work within the boundaries of your reality together. Consider how much debt you have, how much income, and how much you need to save.

Find a way to achieve financial freedom. The Bible says, ‘The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender’ (Proverbs 22:7 NKJV).

2. When it’s about time. If you’re not spending time together - one of you is missing the other. Ideally, you both want to spend more time together.

But if your partner keeps making this complaint, take it as a compliment that he or she still enjoys your company. Schedule designated times together on both your calendars - with no intrusions. There’s no substitute for spending time with your mate.

3. When it’s about jealousy. We’re not talking about a possessive spouse who won’t allow you to glance at the waiter without accusing you of cheating.

But generally when there’s jealousy in a relationship it’s an indication of insecurity. You may need to have a frank discussion about your commitment to each other.

Talk about the little habits and mannerisms your spouse interprets as flirtatious. Communicate, and don’t allow the jealousy to grow into bitterness, distrust, or disgust.