“Not another word!”
I had clearly heard God’s gentle whisper, His prompting to keep my mouth shut.
But I ignored it. I wanted to say just four little words to prove my point … “I’m just being honest.”
I should have listened to God. Those four words—as true as they were—ignited like gasoline on hot embers. Our disagreement immediately shifted from a minor battle into a full-blown war.
Anger, disappointment and hurt crossed Wayne’s face as he heard my words. He threw up his hands and turned around in frustration. For the first time in our relationship, he got in the car and went for a drive to cool off.
As I watched him drive away, anger and fear swelled within me. I tried to comfort myself by repeating the thought, I was just being honest. But, really, my words weren’t so much about honesty as they were about being right. I thought being right justified my words and actions. I didn’t mean to put on pride as I dressed each day, but I guess the residue from my past still clung to me. You see, I grew up in a family of debaters. We knew how to use words to win.
Do you think you are always right? Have you ever noticed that you can have the facts correct but still be completely wrong when it comes to your relationship? {eoa}
Sue Detweiler is a faith influencer, biblical leadership expert and podcast host of Healing Rain with more than 25 years of experience in marriage, ministry and education. She is also an international speaker who ministers prophetically on healing, prayer, family, leadership and discipleship. Subscribe to Sue’s podcast Healing Rain and newsletter. Download marriage resources by texting the word “Marriages” to 44222. Connect with Sue on Instagram at instagram.com/suedetweiler; on Facebook at facebook.com/suedetweiler7; on linkedin.com/in/suedetweiler; on Twitter at twitter.com/suedetweiler or at suedetweiler.com.
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