First, you want something from your wife. But she does not act in a way to meet your need. You feel mildly irritated.

Second, you tell your wife what you need. She hears you, but she does not act to meet that need. So you become more irritated.

Third, you know she knows what you need. But she continues to not meet your need. So you escalate your behaviors to make the need even more clear.

Fourth, she continues to not engage your need. So, you become louder and more animated to get your need met. And still, she does not meet the need.

Fifth, this whole thing is very troubling. You decide. I must withdraw myself and not engage her to show my desperation. Still, she doesn’t meet your need.

Six, you conclude; She doesn’t care. She has seen you go through all these gyrations of behavior. The only possible conclusion is she doesn’t care about me.

Seventh, you conclude; she doesn’t care. So, you give yourself permission to be mean-spirited and act ugly. You signal back; I don’t care either!

Questions

Who will you be when your needs are not met? How will you handle life’s disappointments?

Prayer

Father, thank you for the example of Jesus. Some days it’s very hard to follow his lead. Please help me with wisdom as I grow. I need your help. Amen.

Bible Connection

Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. –Ephesians 5:21 (NIV)