CREATE SOME SAFETY

CREATE SOME SAFETY

     Although we’ve been married since 1972, Barbara and I are still learning how to love one another in a way that casts out fear and keeps it from having a grip on our lives. So, for example, instead of getting irritated or resentful when Barbara sometimes feels reluctant to share her feelings, I recognize that my behavior can feel intimidating to her, and that’s a form of fear. Since I don’t want her to fear me (or my reaction to her), I need to change my behavior.

     We both know that we are totally committed to each other, and I want to be more sensitive to her disposition, which is so different from my own. I’ve also sought ways to gently encourage Barbara to open up, and she’s learning to take more risks as well. I want to embody God’s words: “Do not fear, for you will not be ashamed; neither be disgraced, for you will not be put to shame” (54:4).

     How are you different from your mate? How can you handle these differences in a way that makes your relationship totally safe for each other? Pray that you can grow as a couple to trust each other completely and so feel completely safe with one another.

NOTE:  This article is taken from the book Family Life & Marriage Bible by Dennis and Barbara Rainey.

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