“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”
George Bernard a Shaw Nobel Prize in Literature in 1925
Review – When following God’s design for Marriage it is important to note:
Communication problems are the number one reason couples split up, with 65% of couples citing this issue as the primary cause of divorce, according to a 2013 survey. But it’s not only romantic relationships that are affected by communication issues—they are often at the root of conflicts in our everyday lives. (goodtherapy.org)1
Every couple can improve their communication by clearing two roadblocks to communicating with God.
1 Peter 3:8 ESV
The Roadblock of Ignorance – Husbands live with your wives in an understanding way.
To Understand is from the Greek Word ginṓskō – properly, to know, especially through personal experience (first-hand acquaintance).
His part
James 1:19&20 – Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; 20 for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
Her part
1 Peter 3:1 – Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct.
The Roadblock of Dishonor – Husbands show honor to their wives.
Showing Honor is from the Greek Word tee-may – Valuing something that is very costly.
His part
Ephesians 5:25 – Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.
Her part
1 Peter 3:4 – But let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.
The End Goal
1 Peter 3:8&9
Three Ways to Start Praying Together: (If you are new to this.)
Our Prayer For You: Heavenly Father,
The resistance that our men feel about praying with and for their wives is real. Please help the husbands that are hesitant to pray with their wives to be encouraged, even courageous. Lord, please bless your daughters with a willingness to try. Please by your Holy Spirit give them appreciation for their husbands’ efforts, and a heart of cooperation with his initiative. Please help us know that you are pleased when we pray together. Help us all to defeat laziness, excuses, and even attitudes that resist as we move to pray together with our mates.
In Jesus Name We Pray – AMEN
For Small Group Discussion:
Opening Activity: Play a game of telephone, or answer this question: What is the funniest miscommunication you have experienced?
Main Point: God’s Word is filled with important guidelines for communicating with anyone, and those principles help us walk through tough times and help us speak truth and life in our closest relationships.
Read/Tell the Story: Genesis 11:1-9 (Tower of Babel)
Questions:
Head –
Heart –
Hands –
Supporting Scripture: 1 Peter 3:7-12, Proverbs 18:2, James 1:19-20
For all resources go to: https://realliferesources.org/current-series/upgrades/