One of my favorite Bible passages for relationships is James 3:17, which says, “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.”
The New King James Version replaces the word “submissive” with the phrase “willing to yield,” which paints a visual of yielding our wants and desires. I liken it to a yield sign that causes us to slow down, stop if needed, and let other cars go ahead of us.
Now, please don’t misunderstand. Yielding isn’t always possible, especially if it involves compromising moral or biblical standards. But most of the time, we can yield to less important things and prefer our spouse’s preferences above our own.
This reminds me of Philippians 2:1-4, which says, “Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
When handling disagreements, ask yourself, “Can I let this go, or should it be addressed?” Most of the time, you’ll find it easier to let go, realizing your argument isn’t as important as you thought.
Photo credit: ©GettyImages/Delmaine Donson