Putting Off Hard Conversations Can Be Destructive

I once read a story about a couple married for 18 years. During their relationship, the husband poured himself into his career, believing he was fulfilling his God-given role as husband and provider. Likewise, his wife dedicated herself to him and their home, working tirelessly to meet daily needs.

Over time, the wife began feeling disconnected from her husband but let it go because he worked hard. The few times she brought up her concerns, he brushed them off or got angry at her for not appreciating his sacrifice. Out of guilt, she quietly accepted her unfulfilling marriage and kept her feelings to herself.

After many years of her growing frustration, anger, and resentment toward her husband, she had enough and filed for divorce. Although her husband was willing to do whatever it took to make it work at that point, it was too late. The damage was done, and she had already checked out.

I share this tragic story because it illustrates the relational destruction that can happen when spouses avoid having hard conversations with each other.

Marital difficulties are inevitable. But refusing to address and work through them guarantees us increased amounts of relational problems that never get better on their own. Instead, they take us on a downward spiral leading to nowhere good.

Are you afraid of having hard conversations with your spouse? Let me know in the comments so I can pray for the courage and grace you need to do it.