Gracious Words ─ Marriage Conversations

Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.

─ Proverbs 16:24 ESV

Kevin’s anger bubbled over and the loud slam of the car door caused him to snap to his senses. He’d been lost in his head the entire commute, thinking about his frustration and lack of communication in his marriage.

He leaned against the car for a minute and his eyes welled with tears. Lord, he prayed, I don’t know what to do … the hurt, the pain, the disappointment of where Jane and I are. Please help me.

Suddenly pictures of the two of them, young in their relationship, began to play like a movie in his head. He remembered the long walks together, the moments sitting across each other at the kitchen table, lost in conversation for hours. He remembered Jane’s head tossed back, both of them laughing.

“We don’t talk anymore,” he said a little louder than he expected as he walked into the office building. He closed his office door and bowed his head. Thank you, for reminding me to spend time in conversation with her. Thank you, Lord. 

Marriage requires conversation, a sharing of two lives. The words you choose to say matter. Our verse from Proverbs 16:24 assures us that nothing is more appealing than speaking beautiful, life-giving words. They release sweetness to our souls and inner healing to our spirits.

Even the hard conversations should be courteous and kind. Remember Psalm 49:3 and let it become your prayer before difficult conversations: “My mouth shall speak wisdom; the meditation of my heart shall be understanding.

Today’s One Thing

Remember the things you and your spouse did that once brought you together. Push the pause button on the conflict and do something that takes you back to the positive memories in life. Ask God to help you rebuild from there.

Choose a couple of these conversation starters to help you begin again:

1. What is your most treasured memory?
2. When do you feel like I’m really listening to you?
3. When do you feel most loved or most respected by me?
4. What does love look like to you? (Draw a picture for me with your words.)
5. What is your favorite thing for us to do together?

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